5 UFC fighters who won fights in multiple weight classes
![Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson at 205 lbs [Image via Getty Images]](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2022/03/4d97f-16477057204507-1920.jpg?w=500)
Since the UFC introduced weight classes, many fighters have tested themselves in multiple divisions. Kamaru Usman made headlines recently when he revealed that he was open to fighting at light heavyweight. ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ told GQ that he considered challenging Jan Blachowicz when he was the light heavyweight champion last year.
Usually, champions have moved up or down one weight class in pursuit of a superfight. Despite it not being common for fighters to move two weight divisions, there have been fighters that have been successful. B.J. Penn is an example of a fighter who has competed in multiple weight classes including featherweight, lightweight, welterweight, and openweight.
It's possible for fighters to carry over their success to multiple divisions, and hence, the idea of Usman moving to 205 lbs shouldn’t be overlooked. In fact, there are current fighters in the promotion that have hit their stride since making the move. This list will look at five UFC fighters who were successful in different weight classes.
#5. Jared Cannonier – UFC heavyweight to middleweight
UFC middleweight Jared Cannonier has been a fighter who has truly benefited from moving down two weight classes. He began his career as a heavyweight and was fairly successful early on. After going 7-0 to start his MMA career, he joined the promotion in 2015.
‘The Killa Gorilla’ came up short in his debut after being on the receiving end of a knockout against Shawn Jordan. Despite earning a Performance of the Night bonus in his next fight, he decided to move down to 205 lbs.
After going 2-3 and losing to three top fighters in the division, he decided to move down to middleweight. ‘The Killa Gorilla’ has looked his best at 185 lbs and the move has clearly served him well. He is 5-1 at middleweight, which includes wins over Anderson Silva and Kelvin Gastelum. After his impressive knockout win over Derek Brunson, Cannonier is expected to receive the next middleweight title shot against Israel Adesanya.