Which UFC fighters have held two belts? This is a question that has intrigued fans and analysts alike for years. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has seen several exceptional athletes who have managed to conquer multiple weight classes, showcasing their versatility and dominance in the sport. In this article, we will delve into the careers of these remarkable fighters and explore the challenges they faced in their quest to hold two belts simultaneously.
The first UFC fighter to achieve the feat of holding two belts was Wanderlei Silva. Known as the “Axe Murderer,” Silva won the Pride FC Middleweight Championship in 2006 and later captured the UFC Middleweight Championship in 2007. His success in two different organizations was a testament to his remarkable skills and adaptability.
Another notable fighter who held two belts was Anderson Silva. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and former UFC Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion, Silva redefined the landscape of MMA. In 2008, he became the first fighter to hold two UFC belts when he captured the Middleweight Championship. Four years later, he added the Light Heavyweight Championship to his collection, making him one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history.
Stipe Miocic, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion, is another fighter who has held two belts. In 2016, he won the Middleweight Championship before transitioning to the Heavyweight division. After a successful run in the Heavyweights, Miocic won the Heavyweight Championship in 2018, becoming the first fighter to hold two belts in the UFC Heavyweight division.
In 2019, Daniel Cormier became the first fighter to hold three belts in the UFC, including the Light Heavyweight, Middleweight, and Heavyweight titles. However, for the purpose of this article, we will focus on those who have held two belts. DC’s accomplishment is a testament to his remarkable skill set and adaptability, as he successfully defended his titles across different weight classes.
Other notable fighters who have held two belts include Dominick Cruz, who won the UFC Bantamweight and Featherweight titles; Demian Maia, who captured the UFC Middleweight and Welterweight titles; and Jon Jones, who held the UFC Light Heavyweight and Middleweight titles.
These fighters have not only proven their worth in the octagon but have also inspired future generations of athletes to pursue their dreams. The journey of holding two belts is not just about the physical prowess but also the mental resilience and strategic acumen required to excel in different weight classes.
In conclusion, the list of UFC fighters who have held two belts is a testament to the sport’s evolution and the incredible talents that have graced the octagon. As the UFC continues to grow, we can only anticipate more remarkable achievements and the emergence of new legends who will leave their mark on the history of mixed martial arts.
