5 UFC legends who never fought for a title
As hard as it is to get into the UFC, it's infinitely harder to capture championship gold in the organization that rules the world of combat sports. Many have tried, most have failed. However, it's quite a feat to be apart of the organization, let alone hanging in there for awhile.
There's no shame in a fighter just not quite being within the grasp of the coveted belt. Really, the stars have to align just to get the title fight, let alone surmount a champion. There are plenty of athletes in the organization that have achieved all but championship gold.
: @UFC_CA)Wow, what a fight from Matt Brown and Bryan Barberena! #UFCColumbus
(🎥: @UFC_CA)
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Holding one's spot in the company takes a lot. Regardless of the lack of accolades, fighters can excel in other facets of the fight game to earn legend status. Be it the excitement of the fighter or the longevity of their career, many have made their mark although they've never had the opportunity to challenge a champion. Here are 5 UFC legends who never fought for a title.
#5. Roy Nelson
Despite a physique that is unique and doesn't quite match the typical professional fighter, Roy Nelson made an impact in the heavyweight division. After winning the tenth season of The Ultimate Fighter, Nelson was immediately thrown to the wolves.
Roy Nelson vs Dave Herman at UFC 146 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV on May 26, 2012. #DWCOTD https://t.co/KvewjOBuwE
Although 'Big Country' was wishy-washy with wins in the UFC, he continued to fight at the top of the division for his entire stint with the company. A threat to the judges' job security, Nelson finished 15 of his 23 wins by KO/TKO, which helped him stick around in the promotion for as long as he did.
Nelson never won a title, but he fought many fighters with their name attached to the heavyweight belt. Frank Mir, Stipe Miocic, Junior dos Santos -- these are just a few of the marquee names and fojnmu/rmer heavyweight champions that Nelson fought whilst with the company. Despite not topping the mountain that is the heavyweight division, Nelson was a conversation piece for quite some time. Unfortunately, the required string of wins never accumulated and the title never crossed his path.
Nelson proved many wrong with his success on The Ultimate Fighter and his run in the organization. Knockouts, bonuses and his celebratory belly-rub may have never won a UFC title, but these won over the fans as he became a must-see fighter and overall fan-favorite.