MMA: The UFC has dominated the MMA world for years now. The promotion has been at the top for the last two decades at least. Such has been the dominance of the UFC that many fans use UFC and MMA synonymously. However, there are many talented fighters outside the UFC too. So here’s a list of five of the best fighters outside the UFC. For more combat sports news, follow Insidesport.IN.
READ ALSO: UFC vs WWE: Are UFC Fights More Dangerous Than Risky WWE Performances?
Given that the UFC is easily the biggest promotion in MMA, the best fighters often make the switch from other promotions to the UFC. However, things look like they’re changing. And today there are some exciting fighters who do not compete in the UFC.
5 Best Non-UFC MMA Fighters in the World
Five best MMA fighters who do not compete in the UFC
5. AJ McKee: At number five is former Bellator champion, AJ McKee. The American went undefeated for the longest time and secured the lightweight belt in the process. And although he lost in the rematch, he has an impressive 20-1 record. He is undoubtedly one of the best outside the UFC.
4. Usman Nurmagomedov: Number four on our list is Usman Nurmagomedov. Cousin of former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, Usman is following in Khabib’s footsteps. The Russian is undefeated with a 17-0 record and he holds the lightweight belt. It won’t be long before the UFC tries to bring Usman in.
3. Patricio Pitbull Freire: Another superstar fighter who competes outside the UFC is Patricio Freire. The Pitbull is an experienced campaigner and a three-time world champion in Bellator. The Brazilian has an incredible 35 wins in MMA, with just six losses. This is proof of an incredible career.
2. Demetrious Johnson: Number two on our list is probably UFC’s biggest mistake. Former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson is now the flyweight champion in ONE Championship. And the UFC traded him to the Asian promotion in exchange for Ben Askren. While Askren has since retired, Johnson is still going strong, racking up incredible wins.
1. Francis Ngannou: The best fighter outside the UFC for us is a no-brainer. Francis Ngannou is now with PFL. And the former UFC champion is easily the biggest and best fighter outside the UFC. After negotiations with the UFC fell through, Ngannou signed with the PFL. He will compete in 2024 and will look to make a statement.
So there you have it. Our list of the top 5 MMA fighters outside the UFC. Who do you think is the best fighter outside the UFC?
For more combat sports news, follow Insidesport.IN.
Editors pick
