UFC: Top 7 fighters between 1993 and 1998

#6 Oleg Taktarov (6-1-2)

Oleg Taktarov

All of “The Russian Bear’s” UFC appearances came in 1995. Despite only wrestling a handful of events for the UFC, Oleg Taktarov captured the imagination of the MMA audience.

Taktarov first caught the attention at UFC 5, reaching the semi-finals, before falling to the eventual winner, Dan Severn by technical knockout.

Taktarov was invited back at the next UFC offering and won the UFC tournament at UFC 6. Taktarov used his considerable Ju-Jitsu skills to defeat both UFC 5 finalist Dave Beneteua and Anthony Macias by guillotine choke. Taktarov fought Tank Abbott in the Final, wearing down his stronger and larger opponent, using his far superior conditioning to secure the tournament victory by submission.

As UFC 6 Champion, Taktarov earned an opportunity to challenge Superfight Champion, Ken Shamrock at UFC 7. Taktarov battled to an uninspiring draw with Shamrock, which lasted an epic 33 minutes.

Taktarov next competed in the Ultimate Ultimate 1995 tournament in December. Taktarov progressed to the final but Lost to Severn once again. This would prove to be his final match in the promotion. He would never return.