Black UFC Fighters: Top 25 Players Of The MMA 2023

Are you ready to rumble? Hold on for a thrilling ride through the world of MMA with the Top 25 Black UFC Fighters of All Time! With their fierce determination, skill, and passion, these ultimate fighting machines have shattered stereotypes, broken barriers, and made history. We’ll delve deep into the lives and careers of these legendary warriors in this article, exploring their physical prowess, accolades, and achievements, as well as some fascinating behind-the-scenes details. So prepare to be inspired, awed, and entertained as we highlight the best black UFC fighters!

The List of Famous Black UFC Fighters 

Get ready to witness the absolute best in the game as we dive into the world of black UFC fighters! We’ve compiled a list of the top 25 black fighters in MMA, showcasing their incredible feats, stunning skills, and impressive achievements. From the legendary Daniel Cormier to the electrifying Israel Adesanya, these fighters have made an indelible mark on the sport and left fans breathless with their powerful performances. So, are you ready to enter the octagon and discover the greatest black UFC fighters of all time? Let’s go!

Daniel Cormier

Wow! Daniel Cormier! 22 wins, 17 finishes, ten T/KOs. Former Olympic wrestler and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt. At 5’11” with a reach of 72.5″, he was a fierce competitor in the octagon and has beaten the likes of Soa Palelei, Jeff Monson, Antonio Silva, Josh Barnett, Frank Mir, and Roy Nelson. Former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion of the world.

Cormier is also a UFC analyst on FOX stations, sharing his considerable expertise and experience with viewers worldwide. Wrestling in high school, where he won three Louisiana state titles, two national championships at Colby Community College, and an NCAA runner-up result at Oklahoma State, (where he also received a sociology degree,) led to his fighting career.

The Olympic career of Cormier, who competed in wrestling for the United States on five occasions and won gold at the 2002 and 2003 Pan American Games as well as bronze at the 2007 Pan American Games and World Championships, is also noteworthy. His transition to mixed martial arts has been remarkable, as shown by his incredible victories over Dan Henderson and Stipe Miocic, as well as his historic feat of holding the heavyweight and light heavyweight titles simultaneously.

Daniel Cormier is a champion on and off the octagon. We eagerly await his future success!

Jon Jones

Jonathan Dwight Jones, also known as “Bones,” is undoubtedly one of the greatest fighters to ever grace the UFC octagon. With a remarkable record of 27-1-0, 1 NC, including an 18-win streak, Jones has dominated the light heavyweight division for years. He is a black belt in Gaidojutsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai, and his striking and grappling skills are second to none.

Jones has notable victories over some of the biggest names in the sport, including Mauricio Rua, Lyoto Machida, Vitor Belfort, Rashad Evans, Chael Sonnen, Daniel Cormier, and Alexander Gustafsson. He has also held the UFC light heavyweight title for multiple reigns, defending the belt successfully on numerous occasions.

Jones is a formidable opponent both in and out of the octagon. His height of 6’4″ (193 cm) and reach of 84.5″ (215cm) make him a towering presence in the heavyweight division, where he recently made his debut. Jones’s affiliation with Jackson Wink MMA, a world-renowned fight camp, has helped him hone his skills and develop a formidable game plan for each of his fights.

Despite some controversies outside of the octagon, Jones’s fighting prowess and accomplishments speak for themselves. He is a true legend in the sport of MMA and continues to showcase his talents every time he steps into the cage. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for “Bones” Jones.

Kimbo Slice

Kimbo Slice, a mixed martial artist, boxer, and actor, was noted for his street fighting. Slice, a street fighter from the Bahamas, turned pro in the late 2000’s. He weighed 225-235 pounds (102-107 kg) and stood 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall.

Street fight footage made Kimbo Slice famous in 2003. In 2007, he debuted in MMA with EliteXC, a now-defunct company. Defeating Tank Abbott in 43 seconds propelled his stardom. His bout with James Thompson in May 2008 garnered over six million viewers, making him an MMA sensation. After Slice’s 14-second loss against Seth Petruzelli, EliteXC closed due to financial issues.

In 2015, Slice returned to MMA with Bellator MMA and defeated Ken Shamrock in the opening round. Critics and fans panned his next encounter against Dada 5000 because both combatants gassed out early. Slice won by TKO after Dada fainted from exhaustion in the third round. After testing positive for nandrolone following the fight, Slice’s Texas license was suspended.

Kimbo Slice’s seven professional boxing bouts were all knockouts. “Blood and Bone” and “Happy Christmas, Drake & Josh” were among some of his film and TV role appearances.

42-year-old Kimbo Slice died on June 6, 2016 due to heart failure, leaving behind six children, including two posthumous grandchildren. Bellator MMA President Scott Coker mourned “a beloved member of the Bellator family.”

Yoel Romero

Next up, the MMA Superstar From Cuban Wrestling, Yoel Romero!

Yoel Romero Palacio, an MMA fighter from Pinar Del Rico, Cuba, was born on April 30, 1977. He’s 6 feet tall and muscular from wrestling and MMA training. Yoel and his brother Pablo Hernandez trained for wrestling.

The Cuban freestyle wrestler Yoel Romero, won Olympic and world silvers. He defeated numerous past Olympic and world champions at FILA World Championship games for Cuba and earned the 2003 Pan American Games gold medal. For throwing a World Championship match in 2006, the Cuban Wrestling Federation punished him.

After a 2007 return, Yoel Romero relocated to Germany to train for MMA. He debuted in MMA in December 2009 and went 5-0 in Polish and German competitions.

Yoel Romero suffered a Strikeforce neck injury in 2011. He rejoined the UFC as a middleweight. On April 20, 2013, he won “Knockout of the Night” by knocking out Clifford Starks in the first round. He defeated Derek Brunson, Brad Tavares, and Tim Kennedy in his next three fights.

Yoel Romero’s career was jeopardised in January 2016 when he failed a USADA drug test. After a court battle, he accepted a six-month combat ban. He knocked out Chris Weidman in the third round in November 2016.

Romero has also won UFC Knockout, Performance, and Fight of the Night. 

Romero, a fervent Christian, attributes his athletic prowess to Jesus Christ. Despite uproar over his LGBTQ+ comments, he reiterated that everyone is equal.

Finally, Yoel Romero is truly an MMA star. Many are inspired by his transition from world champion wrestler to UFC champion.

Uriah Hall

Uriah Hall, known as “Primetime,” is a Jamaican-American mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC’s middleweight division. Standing at 6 feet tall with a reach of 79.5 inches, Hall possesses incredible athleticism and striking ability, making him a formidable opponent for anyone in his weight class.

Hall has crushed some impressive milestones in his UFC career. This fierce fighter has won the ROC Middleweight Championship twice, not to mention being a thrilling runner-up on The Ultimate Fighter Season 17! Uriah’s impressive victories over Gegard Mousasi and Krzysztof Jotko landed him two Performance of the Night awards! Additionally, he’s tied with Anderson Silva and Thiago Santos for the most knockout victories in UFC middleweight history.

But Hall’s achievements aren’t just limited to the octagon. He’s also had a role in the 2015 movie “Street” alongside Beau “Casper” Smart.

Overall, Uriah Hall is an incredibly talented and exciting fighter, and fans always look forward to watching him compete in the UFC.

Anthony Johnson

The exciting and dynamic mixed martial artist, Anthony “Rumble” Johnson rose to fame with his performances in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and later in Bellator MMA. Standing at an impressive 6’2″ tall with a reach of 78 inches, Johnson was a force to be reckoned with in the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions.

During his career, Johnson amassed an impressive record of 23 wins and 6 losses, with 17 of those wins coming by way of knockout. He was a two-time Knockout of the Night award winner and a five-time Performance of the Night bonus recipient, proving his prowess as a dangerous striker. Additionally, he had victories over top competitors like Jimi Manuwa, Glover Teixeira, and Alexander Gustafsson.

In addition to his fighting skills, Johnson was known for his resilience and determination. He retired from the sport in 2017 but later made a comeback and signed with Bellator MMA in 2020. Unfortunately, his return was cut short due to illness, but his legacy in the sport remains.

Outside of the cage, Johnson was involved in several business ventures, including launching a CBD oil company called Competitive Body Development. He also served as the head of fighter relations for the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.

Tragically, Johnson passed away on November 13, 2022, due to Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The MMA community was shocked by his sudden passing, and he will be remembered as a fierce competitor who left a lasting impact on the sport.

Kamaru Usman

“The Nigerian Nightmare” Kamaru Usman is an MMA powerhouse. With 20 wins and 3 defeats, he’s one of the UFC’s top welterweights. He’s 6’0″ and 170 pounds, with a 76-inch reach and a habit of switching stances, making him a dangerous opponent in the Octagon.

When it comes to his career statistics, Usman’s numbers speak for themselves. He averages 2.96 takedowns per 15 minutes, with a 45% takedown accuracy rate and a 97% takedown defence rate.

Throughout his career, Usman has achieved many impressive victories over some of the biggest names in the sport, such as, Tyron Woodley, Colby Covington, and Jorge Masvidal, among others. In his latest bout, he lost a close split decision to Leon Edwards, but this only feeds his desire to regain his title.

Usman’s unrelenting pressure, excellent striking, and ground-and-pound skills make him a dynamic fighter who can take the fight anywhere.

He is a humble father of one girl who loves spending time with her outside the cage.

Kamaru Usman’s tremendous career achievements and humble, family-oriented personality make him an inspiration in MMA.

Anderson Silva

Anderson Silva, “The Spider,” is a legendary Brazilian mixed martial artist. Silva was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on April 14, 1975. He’s 6’2″ (188 cm) and reaches 77.5″. (197 cm).

Silva learned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu before boxing, taekwondo, and Muay Thai. He debuted in MMA in 1997 and became popular in Brazil and Japan. In 2006, he won the UFC Middleweight Title and defended it a record-setting ten times.

Stunning knockout wins have characterised Silva’s career, including the victory over Vitor Belfort using his patented front kick to the face. He owns UFC records for Middleweight division knockouts (16) and straight wins (11). In 2019, Silva was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.

Silva has fought amateur and professional boxers Julio César Chavez Jr. and Tito Ortiz. He would also like to compete in taekwondo, possibly at the Olympics.

Quite evidently from his fighting style, Silva was also influenced by and expressed admiration for Spider-Man, Bruce Lee, and Muhammad Ali. 

Anderson Silva dominates MMA due to his many championship titles and record-setting title defenses. He inspired many with his unique fighting technique and incredible exploits.

Rashad Evans

MMA legend Rashad Evans’ legacy will live on. Evans, 5’11” and 205 pounds, was a light heavyweight powerhouse.

Evans debuted as a charming and skilled fighter on The Ultimate Fighter 2 in 2005. He joined the UFC after defeating Brad Imes in the season finale.

Evans has achieved much throughout his career. He defeated Forrest Griffin to win the 2008 UFC Light Heavyweight Title. He beat Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz, and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

Rashad Evans has four children. He has acted in several movies and TV shows, including “The Ultimate Fighter.”

Evans won the 2002 NCAA Division I wrestling championship for Michigan State University. “The Gospel of Fire” chronicles his MMA career and life philosophy.

Rashad Evans is a wonderful character and athlete who changed mixed martial arts. His cage victories and sport accomplishments will encourage future boxers.

Derrick Lewis

Powerhouse Derrick Lewis! He’s a heavyweight MMA fighter from New Orleans. Lewis dominates the octagon at 6’3″ and over 260 pounds. He’s knocked out 20 opponents, demonstrating his hitting power.

Lewis’ career record and size make him stand out. He was Bellator MMA’s and Legacy FC’s heavyweight champion. Lewis beat heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. Ngannou is one of the world’s finest heavyweight fighters, so that’s impressive.

Notwithstanding his professional achievements, Lewis is a great person. He’s become an inspiration after a rough start that includes street fights and jail time. He’s known for his comedy and friendliness outside the octagon, despite his fearsome reputation.

Derrick Lewis is a fighter with tenacity and determination. He’s proved that hard work and determination can achieve anything. Lewis is worth seeing if you like sports or people who work hard.

Demetrious Johnson

Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson dominates MMA. This 5’3″ 125-pounder hits like a truck! That’s not his only distinction.

Demetrious has excelled. Other combatants can only dream of his feats. He defended the UFC Flyweight Championship eleven times! He’s been called the world’s top pound-for-pound fighter by MMA media. How crazy is it that he holds the UFC record for most straight title defenses?

Though, it’s not just his impressive record that makes Demetrious so special – it’s the way he fights. Demetrious is one of the most versatile fighters. His technical skill and other skills are unmatched. His perseverance and tenacity have garnered him fans worldwide.

Demetrious also loves his family. He’s a devoted parent of 3 and husband to Destiny Johnson. Demetrious relaxes by gaming and streaming on Twitch. He’s fun to watch, interact with fans and play.

Demetrious Johnson embodies a champion. He inspires both in- and out-of-ring brilliance. We’re excited to see his next amazing exploits!

Quinton Jackson

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is a powerful mixed martial artist and actor. 6 feet 1 inches tall and 255 pounds, his chiselled figure shows his quickness and intense fighting spirit.

Jackson won the UFC Light Heavyweight Title and became one of the most dominant competitors in the sport. He has also dazzled viewers in several high-profile pay-per-view battles, including contests against some of the biggest names in MMA.

Jackson’s talents go beyond the ring. He also acts in movies and TV shows. From “The A-Team” to “The King of Queens” and “Pimp My Ride,” Jackson has shown that he can succeed in any pitch.

Jackson has had his share of scandals. Despite everything, Jackson has remained a beloved and recognized figure in mixed martial arts and entertainment, drawing spectators worldwide with his incredible ability and larger-than-life character. Whether he’s fighting or acting, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is one of the most intriguing and memorable individuals of our time.

Benson Henderson

Benson Henderson, born November 16, 1983, is a powerful American mixed martial artist at 5’9″ and 156-170 pounds. This Scorpio fighter was the UFC and WEC Lightweight Champion.

Henderson has defeated top-tier fighters Frankie Edgar, Donald Cerrone, Nate Diaz, Patrcio Freire, and Jorge Masvidal. One of the most intriguing competitors, he has a reputation of crushing opponents with his unmatched wrestling, punching, and ground-and-pound powers.

Apart from his astonishing career achievements, Henderson has a fascinating personal life. He married Maria Magana in 2014, and the couple has been together ever since. The fighter has also managed to grow his wealth impressively, with an estimated net worth ranging between $1 million to $5 million.

Henderson has fought for multiple promotions, including Bellator MMA, and has continued to thrive in his professional career. With his unyielding determination and his immense talent, this Scorpio fighter is a force to be reckoned with in the octagon.

Israel Adesanya

Israel Adesanya dominates MMA. This Nigerian-born, New Zealand-raised fighter has dominated the UFC.

Adesanya, 6’4″ and 185 pounds, is a champion. His lightning-fast hands and feet baffle opponents. His 80-inch reach gives him an edge in stand-up.

Adesanya’s career is remarkable. He is 22–1 in professional MMA, with 15 knockouts. After shocking Robert Whittaker, he became the UFC middleweight champion in 2019. He has since defended his title against Yoel Romero, Paulo Costa, and Marvin Vettori.

Adesanya’s skills stretch beyond the Octagon. He has many kickboxing and boxing titles. He likes anime, comics, and dancing.

Despite his rough image, Adesanya is known for his humour and laid-back personality outside the Octagon. Friends and family support him in all his endeavours. Watching anime, playing video games, and spending time with his fiancée are his hobbies.

MMA master Israel Adesanya concludes. His physical strength, professional achievements, and many other qualities make him a powerhouse inside and outside the Octagon. We’re excited for his next move!

Tyron Woodley

Tyron “The Chosen one” Woodley is a former UFC welterweight champion, skilled wrestler, and powerful striker with a 19-7-1 MMA record. Woodley, 5’9″ and 170 pounds, is a powerful and agile athlete who frightens opponents.

His career highlights include winning the UFC welterweight championship in 2016, defending it four times, and winning Performance of the Night three times for dominating Dong Hyun Kim, Robbie Lawler, and Darren Till. His savage finish of Josh Koscheck awarded him Knockout of the Night.

Woodley’s achievements are countless. He was Strikeforce’s 2010 Rising Star and ULTMMA’s 2009 Prospect of the Year. In addition to MMA, Woodley has acted in Straight Outta Compton, Kickboxer: Vengeance, Sultan, and Escape Plan 2: Hades.

Woodley recently boxed YouTube celebrity Jake Paul in two high-profile contests. Despite losing both matches, Woodley was a tough opponent, taking Paul to the second round in the first and giving him a close fight in the second.

Tyron Woodley is a force in and out of the cage due to his quickness, powerful striking, and enthusiasm.

Alistair Overeem

MMA heavyweight Alistair Overeem is British-born Dutch. He is formidable at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93m) and 116 kg.

Don’t give up at the first hurdle you encounter.

Alistair Overeem

Overeem is one of only two fighters to have world titles in both MMA and K-1 kickboxing. Strikeforce heavyweight, DREAM interim heavyweight, and K-1 World Grand Prix champion. He was UFC heavyweight #3 in February 2017.

Still more! Overeem defeated UFC champions Junior dos Santos, Brock Lesnar, Fabricio Werdum, Andrei Arlovski, and Vitor Belfort.

MMA legend Alistair Overeem has a $5 million net worth. While he had his fair share of controversies, Overeem competes at the highest level, and fans worldwide eagerly await his next major bout.

Francis Ngannou

Fighting superstar Francis Ngannou. This Cameroonian athlete is a scary 6’4″ and 257 pounds giant.

With a professional record of 17 wins and only 3 losses, Ngannou is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous heavyweights in MMA today.  He debuted in 2015 with a first-round knockout of Luis Henrique and has since defeated Andrei Arlovski, Alistair Overeem, and Junior Dos Santos.

But it’s not just Ngannou’s impressive record that makes him stand out. His sheer physical presence is awe-inspiring, with a chiselled frame and muscles that seem to bulge out of his skin. His bone-crushing punch has knocked out several opponents.

Off the mat, Ngannou has faced his fair share of challenges. Before discovering MMA in France, he was a sand miner in Cameroon. His rise to the top has been anything but easy, but he has never let his circumstances hold him back.

Ngannou was recently in talks with the UFC again for a possible fight against Jon Jones for the heavyweight title. Unfortunately for us fight fans, the deal was off as both sides couldn’t come to terms on the agreement. 

Ngannou’s philanthropy extends beyond fighting. He promoted education and tenacity in Cameroon and provided clean water to his neighbourhood.

Ngannou’s story is one of grit and athletic prowess. His upcoming bout is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide.

Aljamain Sterling

Aljamain Sterling, a bantamweight boxer, is exciting. Sterling, from Uniondale, New York, began his MMA career in 2011 and has a 22–3–0 record.

Sterling, a 5’7″ striker with a 71-inch reach, is known for his ability to switch seamlessly between striking and grappling, keeping his opponents on their toes and never letting them breathe. He is also a master of the takedown, using his explosive power and technical expertise to take his opponents to the ground and dominate from the top position.

Sterling is a former Ring of Combat and CFFC bantamweight champion who has defeated Cory Sandhagen, Pedro Munhoz, and Brett Johns. He has also won three UFC Performance of the Night bonuses and one Fight of the Night bonus, cementing his status as one of the sport’s most exciting fighters.

Aljamain Sterling is a bantamweight powerhouse and an inspiration both inside and outside the cage. With his explosive power, technical skill, and relentless dedication, he will continue to make waves in MMA for years to come.

Jared Cannonier

American MMA fighter Jared Cannonier, born March 16, 1984, competes in the UFC’s Middleweight division (UFC). He is a fierce striker with 16 wins and 6 losses. Cannonier is the #4 UFC middleweight as of March 21, 2023.

Cannonier’s first two amateur MMA fights were knockouts. He destroyed his opponents in his professional MMA debut in Alaska the following year and won all seven of his fights over the next five years.

In 2014, the UFC signed Cannonier for his fighting skills. At UFC 182, he lost to Shawn Jordan in the first round. Cannonier returned in April 2016, knocking out Cyril Asker at UFC Fight Night: Rothwell vs. dos Santos.

Cannonier continued his dominance with three more wins, including a Fight of the Night over Ion Cuțelaba. At UFC 237 in May 2019, he defeated former UFC Middleweight champion Anderson Silva by first-round Knockout to establish himself as a strong contender.

Cannonier is recognised for his powerful right hand. He was a heavyweight and light heavyweight before moving to middleweight.

Cannonier’s six-fight contract targets the UFC middleweight title. He is a formidable octagon opponent. UFC fans can expect Cannonier to keep winning.

José Aldo

“Junior” José Aldo is an electric Brazilian mixed martial artist and former featherweight champion with 29 wins, 8 losses, and 0 draws. Aldo, a 5’7″ fighter with a 70″ reach, has rapid punches and a powerful ground game.

Throughout his storied career, Aldo has racked up an impressive list of accomplishments. He became a dominant fighter after starting his career in 2004. 12 of his first 18 contests were knockouts. Aldo’s success earned him the 2009 WEC featherweight title.

After the WEC-UFC merger, Aldo defended his title seven times. He faced world-class fighters like Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and Kenny Florian. Aldo kept winning and defending his title with his impressive striking prowess and takedown defence.

Aldo’s lightning-fast leg kicks have stopped many opponents. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt has helped him win many fights.

Aldo is a family man outside of the octagon. He has a daughter and a son with his longtime girlfriend, Vivianne Perreira. In his free time, Aldo still enjoys playing soccer and spending time with his family.

Before MMA, Aldo wanted to play professional football. One could say that his agility and footwork in the cage came from his experience playing soccer.

Overall, Jose Aldo is a true legend of the sport of MMA. His dynamic fighting style, impressive record, and family values make him a fan favorite and will inspire future fighters.

Walt Harris

Walt Harris is a tough UFC fighter. He’s a serious heavyweight at 6’5″ and 264 pounds.

Harris, born June 10, 1983, in Birmingham, Alabama, started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in his early 20s. He made his professional MMA debut in 2011 and quickly became a top striker with a 13-10 record.

Harris’ career highlights include a Performance of the Night knockout of Aleksei Oleinik in July 2019 and wins over Sergey Spivak and Daniel Spitz. His speed and striking power make him a top heavyweight contender.

Harris married Angela in 2012. They have four children and are well-known in their community for their active participation.

To summarise, Walt Harris is an exciting and talented MMA fighter with a promising future.

Harris is a huge inspiration to his followers and a bright example of what hard work and devotion can achieve, whether he’s fighting in the cage or spending time with his family.

Curtis Blaydes

“Razor” Curtis Blaydes is a Naperville, Illinois-based heavyweight mixed martial artist. Blaydes is a UFC heavyweight powerhouse at 6 feet 4 inches and 260 pounds.

Blaydes is a powerful wrestler, with 17 wins, 3 defeats, and 1 no contest. He won the 2012 NJCAA Wrestling Championship and is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Cody Donovan.

Blaydes turned pro in 2014 after an 8-0 amateur career. He signed with the UFC after five straight knockout wins. He has since faced heavyweight champions Francis Ngannou, Mark Hunt, and Alistair Overeem.

Blaydes’ 14 takedowns versus Justin Willis set a UFC heavyweight record. He won Performance of the Night bonuses for defeating Cody East, Alistair Overeem, and Chris Daukaus.

Outside of the octagon, Blaydes is a proud father to his daughter, Harlie. Despite his intimidating presence in the cage, Blaydes is known for his humble and grounded personality.

Blaydes recently defeated Chris Daukaus by second-round knockout, earning him another Performance of the Night prize. He faces Sergei Pavlovich at UFC Fight Night 222 on April 22, 2023.

Blaydes is a powerful wrestler with a bright UFC future. Supporters eagerly await his next move.

Maurice Smith

Seattle-born Maurice Smith is a retired mixed martial artist and kickboxer. He’s 235 pounds and 6’2″. 

Smith has held multiple championships, including the UFC Heavyweight Championship, the Extreme Fighting Heavyweight Championship, the I.S.K.A. World Muay Thai Heavyweight Championship, and the W.K.A. World Kickboxing Heavyweight Championship. 

Smith started kickboxing in 1980 and with 53 wins, 13 losses, and 5 draws. He reached the K-1 Grand Prix ’93 semifinals. He reached the semifinals of the 2001 K-1 World Grand Prix in Las Vegas after winning the USA Preliminary. Black Belt Magazine selected Smith 2001 Full-Contact Fighter of the Year.

Smith was 14–17 in mixed martial arts. He defeated Mark Coleman in 1997 and defended the UFC Heavyweight Title against Tank Abbott. Randy Couture won in 1997. Smith won the 1997 Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Most Outstanding Fighter award and fought Coleman in the Fight of the Year.

Maurice Smith was honored into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2017.

Leon Edwards

Leon “Rocky” Edwards is a fast, powerful welterweight fighter who is feared in the UFC. Edwards, 6 feet tall with a 74-inch reach, dominates opponents in the Octagon.

Edwards defeated Donald Cerrone, Gunnar Nelson, and Rafael dos Anjos in his career. His skilled striking and superb grappling make him a dangerous opponent in his division, and his amazing victory streak shows his dedication and hard work.

Leon Edwards stands out for more than his combat ability. His modesty and professionalism have won him fans and coworkers. Despite also becoming the Champion after beating Kamaru Usman twice, Edwards stays grounded and focused on improving his game and pushing himself.

Leon Edwards has a 6-year-old kid named Jayon. His dating life and Jayon’s mother are unknown since Leon likes to hide his girlfriend’s identity for privacy. Leon had promised his child a safe and comfortable life that he never had because of his upbringing. 

His demeanour is deceptive. Leon Edwards is a formidable fighter. He’s a warrior who never backs down, whether he’s fighting or grappling.

Leon “Rocky” Edwards epitomises MMA’s discipline, passion, and heart. He will continue to dominate professional mixed martial arts with his outstanding physical power, technical ability, and unshakable drive.

Jamahal Hill

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jamahal Hill is American. Hill’s explosive strength, dominant performances, and unshakable spirit define his career. As of January 24, 2023, Hill ranks 13th in UFC men’s pound-for-pound.

Amazing background. After moving to Grand Rapids at 12, he graduated from Rogers High School in Wyoming, Michigan. After abandoning a basketball career at Davenport University, Hill started mixed martial arts in 2017.

Since then, Hill has gone 12–1–0-1NC with seven knockout victories. Four of his 5-0 professional wins were under KnockOut Promotions. In his fourth fight, Hill defeated future UFC fighter Dequan Townsend.

Hill also defeated Alexander Poppeck in the 2019 Contender Series 21 third round to earn a UFC contract.

Hill’s career in the UFC has been a rollercoaster. He defeated Klidson Abreu via first-round technical knockout at UFC on ESPN: Woodley vs. Burns on May 30, 2020, however, his TKO win was declared a no contest after failing a marijuana drug test.

Hill got his first Performance of the Night bonus by knocking out Jimmy Crute in the opening round and his second Performance of the Night bonus by knocking out Johnny Walker in the fight right after, at UFC on ESPN: Font vs. Aldo.

At UFC 283, Hill defeated Glover Teixeira to win the UFC light heavyweight title and also became the first Dana White’s Contender Series graduate to win a UFC title, solidifying his status as a major contender.

Hill’s cage successes aren’t his sole distinction. Hill is a loving father to his six children, who are 3 to 16 years old as of 2022.

It’s safe to say that Jamahal Hill is an MMA superstar with an incredible record, a dominant fighting style, and unflinching resilience. This amazing athlete’s future is exciting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UFC has produced some of the world’s finest combatants, and the presence of black combatants in the organization has undoubtedly aided in the promotion and development of the sport. From MMA’s early greats like Maurice Smith and Anthony Johnson to today’s rising stars like Leon Edwards and Israel Adesanya, these men have forever changed the sport. They have beaten the odds, shattered stereotypes, and motivated legions of followers all across the world. Black fighters have played a crucial part in the development of the UFC thus far and will continue to do so in the future of the sport.

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