Consecutive UFC title defenses are a true mark of greatness in mixed martial arts. Only a handful of champions have managed to hold onto their titles while defeating the best fighters in the world, time and time again.
These athletes not only reach the summit of their division but then fend off a constant stream of hungry contenders eager to dethrone them. Their consistent dominance also makes them key figures in the world of UFC betting BetUS, where fans follow the odds closely when these champions step into the Octagon. Let’s explore the top UFC champions who achieved this remarkable feat, showcasing their dominance and resilience in the Octagon.
Who Are the Fighters with the Most Consecutive UFC Title Defenses?
Defending a UFC title is one of the hardest challenges in sports. Champions face the best and most dangerous competitors in their division, all hungry to claim the belt. The fighters on this list are ranked based on their streak of consecutive title defenses, showcasing their ability to reign supreme in the most competitive MMA organizations in the world.
1. Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson – 11 Title Defenses
- Championship: UFC Flyweight
- Title Defense Streak: 11
- Career Record: 30 fights (25 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw)
Demetrious Johnson holds the record for the most consecutive title defenses in UFC history, with an incredible streak of 11 defenses. As the first UFC Flyweight Champion, Johnson dominated the division from 2012 to 2018, defeating elite opponents like John Dodson, Joseph Benavidez, and Henry Cejudo.
One of his most iconic moments came at UFC 216, where he put Ray Borg out of contention with a stunning flying armbar, a finish widely regarded as one of the greatest in MMA history. “Mighty Mouse” combined speed, technique, and Octagon IQ to cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
2. Anderson “The Spider” Silva – 10 Title Defenses
- Championship: UFC Middleweight
- Title Defense Streak: 10
- Career Record: 46 fights (34 wins, 11 losses, 1 no contest)
Anderson Silva’s reign as Middleweight Champion is legendary. With 10 consecutive title defenses and a record-breaking title reign of 2,457 days, Silva dominated the middleweight division from 2006 to 2013.
Known for his striking precision and highlight-reel-worthy finishes, Silva defeated top contenders like Rich Franklin, Chael Sonnen, and Vitor Belfort. His front-kick knockout of Belfort remains one of the most iconic moments in UFC history. Silva’s dominance helped elevate the sport and inspired a new generation of fighters (and fans).
3. Georges “Rush” St-Pierre – 9 Title Defenses
- Championship: UFC Welterweight
- Title Defense Streak: 9
- Career Record: 28 fights (26 wins, 2 losses)
Georges St-Pierre, often referred to as GSP, is widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. His 9 consecutive title defenses in the welterweight division from 2008 to 2013 showcased his unparalleled skill and tactical brilliance.
St-Pierre defeated legends like BJ Penn, Carlos Condit, and Johny Hendricks, using his well-rounded skillset to outclass his opponents. Known for his tactical approach, GSP was a master of adapting his game plan to neutralize any threat. His dominance solidified his place as a UFC Hall of Famer.
4. Jon “Bones” Jones – 8 Title Defenses
- Championship: UFC Light Heavyweight
- Title Defense Streak: 8
Jon Jones became the youngest UFC champion in history at just 23 years old. With 8 consecutive title defenses, Jones ruled the light heavyweight division with a mix of athleticism, creativity, and fight IQ.
Jones defeated elite fighters like Daniel Cormier, Alexander Gustafsson, and Rashad Evans during his reign. However, his legacy is often marred by controversies outside the octagon. Despite this, his dominance in the cage remains undeniable, and he is considered one of the most talented fighters in MMA history.
5. Amanda “The Lioness” Nunes – 7 Title Defenses
- Championships: UFC Bantamweight & Featherweight
- Title Defense Streak: 7
- Career Record: 28 fights (23 wins, 5 losses)
Amanda Nunes is the greatest female fighter in MMA history, achieving 7 consecutive title defenses across two weight classes. She became the first woman to hold and defend titles in two divisions simultaneously, making history as a two-division champion.
Nunes defeated legends like Ronda Rousey, Holly Holm, and Cris Cyborg during her reign. Known for her power and versatility, “The Lioness” retired in 2023 as a two-division champion, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in women’s MMA.
6. Jose “The King of Rio” Aldo – 7 Title Defenses
- Championship: UFC Featherweight
- Title Defense Streak: 7
- Career Record: 41 fights (32 wins, 9 losses)
Jose Aldo’s dominance in the featherweight division is the stuff of legend. With 7 consecutive title defenses, Aldo was undefeated for nearly a decade, spanning his time in WEC and UFC.
Aldo defeated elite opponents like Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and Jung Chan-Sung. His striking, particularly his devastating leg kicks, set him apart as one of the greatest fighters of all time. Even after losing his title, Aldo continued to compete at the highest level, further cementing his legacy.
Honorable Mentions
Several other fighters have also achieved impressive title defense streaks, although they fall just short of making the top six:
- Valentina “The Bullet” Shevchenko – 7 defenses (Flyweight)
- Known for her technical precision and dominance in the flyweight division.
- Key opponents: Jessica Andrade, Lauren Murphy.
- Ronda “Rowdy” Rousey – 6 defenses (Bantamweight)
- Revolutionized women’s MMA and became a global icon.
- Key opponents: Miesha Tate, Cat Zingano.
- Kamaru Usman – 5 defenses (Welterweight)
- Dominated the welterweight division before losing to Leon Edwards.
- Key opponents: Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal.
Why Consecutive Title Defenses Matter in UFC History
Consecutive title defenses are a testament to a fighter’s skill, consistency, and mental toughness. Unlike winning a title, defending it requires constant adaptation to new challengers, each with unique styles and strategies.
Fighters like Demetrious Johnson and Anderson Silva dominated during eras when competition was fierce, proving their ability to stay ahead of the curve. As the sport evolves and new talent emerges, the difficulty of achieving long title defense streaks only increases, making these accomplishments even more remarkable.
Legacies Etched in History
The fighters on this list—Demetrious Johnson, Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, Jon Jones, Amanda Nunes, and Jose Aldo—represent the pinnacle of greatness in the UFC. Their consecutive title defenses showcase their dominance, skill, and resilience in the face of elite competition, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire fighters and fans alike.
These champions remind us why title defenses are the ultimate measure of greatness in MMA. Their achievements will forever be etched in the history of the sport.