Counting down the 7 greatest UFC fighters of all time

#4 Royce Gracie (UFC record 11-1-1)

Royce Gracie - UFC 1, 2 & 4 Tournament Winner

Royce Gracie began his UFC career way back at UFC 1 in November 1993. He defeated Art Jimmerson, Ken Shamrock and Gerard Gourdeau en route to victory in the inaugural UFC tournament. Further victories followed in the tournaments at UFC 2 and UFC 4 as the Brazilian clocked up 11 consecutive victories in the promotion, becoming the first and only three-time UFC tournament winner.

At UFC 5, Gracie finally had his much-anticipated rematch with Shamrock. Although the contest was officially ruled a draw after 36 minutes of action, due to the lack of judges at the time, Gracie’s face told the story about who really won that fight.

Shamrock’s superior strength and striking skills had finally overcome the near impenetrable guard and Ju-Jitsu skills of Gracie.

That was Gracie’s final MMA fight for five years until he resurfaced in Pride FC in 2000. Gracie did not return to the UFC however, until the 27th May 2006 at UFC 60 in a non-title match with Welterweight Champion, Matt Hughes.

Gracie lost. It was his first and only defeat in the promotion. Gracie never returned to the UFC but his mark on the promotion was unmistakable. Gracie had defined what a martial artist should be and how important ground skills and submissions are. Which is why today all successful MMA fighters have a well-rounded striking and ground game.

Gracie’s influence will always be felt.