Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has evolved significantly since its inception, and with that evolution comes a debate over who qualifies as the greatest fighters in the sport’s history. Recently, Alexander Volkanovski, a renowned name in the MMA community and former UFC featherweight champion, shared his perspective on the sport—offering a well-considered list of the top five greatest fighters of all time on his YouTube channel. Volkanovski’s authority on the subject stems not only from his successes in the octagon but also from his analytical approach to understanding the sport. His list carries weight and prompts us to examine the criteria by which fighters are judged.
Volkanovski’s list showcases fighters who have significantly impacted the sport in various ways. He ranked Israel Adesanya first, citing his extensive accomplishments and striking prowess. Volkanovski’s remark about Adesanya being “the greatest striker the UFC has ever seen” reflects a strong consensus among fans and analysts alike regarding Adesanya’s technical ability and diverse striking techniques. This insight encourages a deeper examination of how striking supremacy can elevate a fighter’s status in the MMA hierarchy.
Anderson Silva, the second fighter on Volkanovski’s list, represents a pivotal figure in defining the middleweight division. Silva’s long reign as champion and his mesmerizing fighting style garnered him a legacy that sets the bar for future generations. Volkanovski’s affirmation that Silva deserves a spot aligns with an existing acknowledgment among fans of Silva’s extraordinary skill set and charisma.
Georges St-Pierre, placed third, is commonly lauded as one of the most well-rounded and tactically astute fighters ever. Volkanovski recognizes GSP’s strategic acumen, which contributed to his ability to not only retain titles but also evolve as a fighter throughout his career. The discussion around GSP often raises questions about the balance between wrestling and striking, with his ability to excel in both disciplines being central to his success.
Jon Jones is another controversial figure in MMA history, occupying the fourth spot on Volkanovski’s list. While Volkanovski acknowledges Jones’s troubled personal history, he emphasizes Jones’s undeniable skills and longevity at the top of the sport. This juxtaposition of talent versus personal conduct invites a broader discourse on how fighters are assessed—not just on their technical abilities but also on their actions outside the octagon.
Volkanovski’s rankings illustrate a broader narrative about greatness in MMA. They encourage fans and analysts alike to consider various dimensions of a fighter’s career, including championship reigns, skill sets, and personal integrity. This list prompts pertinent questions about how we honor excellence in the sport and what criteria should carry the most weight.
Ultimately, Volkanovski’s insights reflect a nuanced understanding of MMA, and by sharing them, he contributes to an ongoing dialogue about legacy, skill, and influence. His list serves as a jumping-off point for debating the evolution of the sport itself and the fighters shaping its future. Whether in agreement or disagreement with Volkanovski’s selections, one thing remains clear: the conversation about greatness in MMA will continue to engage and challenge fans for years to come.