Being deemed "great" in mixed martial arts indicates skill. But being considered one of the greatest fighters of all time is a tremendous honor that many fighters, critics, and fans will never forget.

There have been numerous outstanding fighters in the history of mixed martial arts. You can never miss them in sports news. However, only a few individuals have become the GOAT. We've placed a maximum number in no particular sequence. Before we explore the top fighters, let's find out why MMA matters!

Why MMA is popular

If you are a fan of Mixed Martial Arts, you are not alone. MMA is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Here are some reasons why:

MMA is Exciting to Watch

There is nothing like watching a good MMA fight. The action is non-stop and there is always the possibility of a knockout. MMA fans are always on the edge of their seats waiting for the next big move.

MMA is a Great Workout

If you are looking for a great workout, MMA is a perfect choice. MMA training is intense and will help you get in shape quickly. You will burn calories, build muscle, and improve your cardiovascular health.

MMA is a Great Way to relieve Stress

If you are looking for a way to relieve stress, MMA is a great option. The physical activity will help you release tension and the mental aspect will help you focus. MMA can be a great outlet for pent-up energy and frustration.

MMA is Safe

Mixed Martial Arts is a safe sport. The rules and regulations are in place to protect the fighters. There is less chance of serious injury in MMA than in other contact sports like football or hockey.

MMA is Fun

Mixed Martial Arts is a lot of fun. It is a great way to meet new people and stay in shape. You will never get bored with MMA because there is always something new to learn.

Top MMA Fighters

Eddie Alvarez

Eddie Alvarez's time in the UFC and Bellator reveals much about his character. He excelled at both, and the opponents he faced remain among the biggest names in MMA. Alvarez consistently put on a show for his admirers. 

In the UFC, he defeated Gilbert Melendez, Anthony Pettis, and Rafael dos Anjos consecutively, which was the finest lightweight run ever. And let's not forget that Alvarez was once a welterweight champion, demonstrating his versatility.

Randy "The Natural" Couture

Stipe Miocic and Randy Couture are tied for the most victories in UFC Heavyweight Championship bouts.

Couture is the fourth individual to enter the UFC Hall of Fame. He is the only fighter over the age of 40 to win a UFC championship. In addition, he is one of the few UFC champions to have regained a championship he had previously lost three times, once at light heavyweight and twice at heavyweight.

Daniel "DC" Cormier

DC was the former light heavyweight and heavyweight world champion. Only Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic have defeated him in his eleven-year career.

Cormier, a stand-and-trade-loving wrestler, was the first combatant to defend crowns in two distinct weight divisions successfully. In addition, he was the fifth fighter in UFC history to win titles in several divisions.

Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson

Demetrious Johnson continues to retain the UFC flyweight record for most finishes. His swift counterattacks and ability to maneuver past opponents have earned him a reputation.

At UFC 152 in 2012, Mighty Mouse defeated Joseph Benavidez to win the inaugural UFC flyweight championship. He ultimately defended his championship eleven times.

Robbie Lawler

Robbie Lawler always concluded his bouts. He did not do well in his debut UFC bout since he faced highly formidable opponents. Lawler's second tenure with the business, which began in 2013, would eventually lead to his induction into the Hall of Fame. 

His reign as champion was fantastic. He was victorious over Carlos Condit, Johny Hendricks, and Rory McDonald (their second fight is, in my opinion, the most entertaining battle in MMA history).

Israel Adesanya

Adesanya cannot advance in the all-time rankings because he did not win two divisions. However, it does not harm him. Since Anderson Silva was at his peak, he still possesses the middleweight division's most potent attack. 

Adesanya has previously defeated Brad Tavares, Derek Brunson, Anderson Silva, Kelvin Gastelum, Robert Whittaker, Yoel Romero, and Paulo Costa, but it doesn't appear that he's through dominating his division. 

In the future, another promotion to light heavyweight is possible. However, Adesanya should focus on his division for the time being, especially after recently defeating Whittaker in a close rematch.

Kamara Usman

Any concerns regarding Usman have been eliminated. He is, without question, the greatest welterweight in MMA history. After stunningly defeating Gilbert Burns, Karama Usman stated that he wanted his name to be respected. 

He may have been referring to us. We did not rank Usman until he decisively defeated Jorge Masvidal at UFC 261 and again defeated Colby Covington. Usman may not be high enough on our list even today. He appeared invincible. 

If his close friend Israel Adesanya moves down to middleweight, Usman could move up to a more significant weight class.

Conor McGregor

In recent years, Conor McGregor has seen a significant fall from grace. This is the result of abandoning the activities that made you famous in the first place. McGregor was a formidable opponent when clinched, and his left hand was one for the ages. 

McGregor knocked out former "The Ultimate Fighter" champion Diego Brandao, tough veteran Dennis Siver, longtime contender Chad Mendes, and Jose Aldo after defeating Max Holloway early in 2013. 

McGregor eventually lost to Nate Diaz in a battle he was winning until he ran out of energy. In a dramatic rematch, McGregor would get revenge on Eddie Alvarez before defeating him to capture two belts. 

Recent losses against Poirier were humiliating for him. However, McGregor was an all-time great during his finest years and when he competed in two classes. Without a doubt.

Verdict

We have shared the top MMA fighters of all time. Some of these names will surely be familiar to you, while others may be new. Regardless, each and every one of these athletes has made an incredible impact on the sport of mixed martial arts.