5 UFC Stars Who Have Faced Each Other The Most Times

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is known for its intense matchups and fierce rivalries. While many fighters step into the octagon to test their skills against various opponents, some have had the privilege, or perhaps the burden, of facing the same opponent multiple times. These recurring battles not only define their legacies but also create unforgettable moments for fans. In this article, we’ll explore five UFC stars who have faced each other the most times and the impact these matchups have had on the sport.

1. Tito Ortiz vs. Ken Shamrock: A Trilogy for the Ages

Tito Ortiz and Ken Shamrock are two names etched into the annals of UFC history. Their epic trilogy of fights remains one of the most iconic rivalries in the sport. Ortiz and Shamrock faced each other three times, and each bout was loaded with drama and anticipation.

Their first encounter took place at UFC 40 on November 22, 2002. Tito Ortiz emerged victorious, but the real fireworks came after the fight, as tempers flared between the two fighters. This rivalry had all the ingredients of a classic feud, with heated exchanges inside and outside the cage.

The second fight between Ortiz and Shamrock occurred at UFC 61 on July 8, 2006. In a highly anticipated rematch, Ortiz secured another win, although it was met with controversy. This only fueled the fire, setting the stage for the trilogy fight.

The final chapter of their trilogy played out at UFC 66 on December 30, 2006. Ortiz secured the hat-trick of victories, but it’s worth noting that the third bout ended in a draw, which added a unique twist to this legendary rivalry. Despite the mixed results, Tito Ortiz’s dominance in two of the three encounters solidified his legacy and left a lasting impression on UFC fans.

2. Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard: A Tale of Two Rivals

Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard’s rivalry is a testament to the resilience and determination that fighters bring to the octagon. These two warriors faced each other three times, and their encounters were characterized by incredible back-and-forth battles.

The first fight between Edgar and Maynard took place at UFC Fight Night 13 on April 2, 2008, and it ended in a unanimous decision win for Maynard. However, this was just the beginning of their rivalry.

Their second bout occurred at UFC 125 on January 1, 2011. This fight ended in a split draw, making it one of the most memorable stalemates in UFC history. The draw only intensified their rivalry and set the stage for a decisive third encounter.

The third fight was scheduled for UFC 136 on October 8, 2011. Edgar managed to turn the tables, securing a TKO victory in the fourth round and becoming the lightweight champion. This victory marked the end of their trilogy, with Frankie Edgar emerging as the ultimate victor.

Frankie Edgar’s resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity in his fights with Gray Maynard showcased the heart and determination that fighters are known for in the UFC.

3. Chuck Liddell vs. Randy Couture: Legends Collide

Chuck Liddell and Randy Couture are two UFC legends who have faced each other three times. Their trilogy of fights had fans on the edge of their seats as these two iconic fighters clashed multiple times.

Their first fight took place at UFC 43 on June 6, 2003. Randy Couture secured a victory in this bout, marking an impressive start to their rivalry.

The second encounter occurred at UFC 52 on April 16, 2005. This time, it was Chuck Liddell who emerged victorious, evening the score between the two fighters.

The third and final match in their trilogy happened at UFC 57 on February 4, 2006. Chuck Liddell secured a KO victory, solidifying his dominance over Randy Couture in their multiple meetings.

This trilogy of fights showcased the incredible careers of both fighters and added to their legendary status within the UFC. Chuck Liddell’s knockout power and Randy Couture’s wrestling prowess made their matchups a true spectacle for fans.

4. Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier: The Modern-Day Rivalry

Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier are two modern-day UFC stars who have faced each other twice, and their rivalry is one of the most compelling storylines in recent MMA history. These two fighters have a fierce history, and their clashes have been nothing short of epic.

The first fight between Jones and Cormier occurred at UFC 182 on January 3, 2015. Jon Jones secured a unanimous decision victory, but their rivalry was far from over.

Their second encounter took place at UFC 214 on July 29, 2017. However, this time Jon Jones was stripped of the title due to a doping violation, and the fight result was changed to a no-contest. Despite the controversy, Jones managed to regain the title he never lost in the octagon.

The intense rivalry between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier has captivated fans, with both fighters displaying incredible skills and determination in their matchups. The fact that they’ve only faced each other twice, as opposed to three times like the previous fighters on this list, is a testament to the significance of their rivalry in modern MMA.

5. Anderson Silva vs. Chris Weidman: The Spider’s Unraveling

Anderson Silva, often referred to as “The Spider,” was one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. However, his reign came to an end when he faced Chris Weidman. Silva and Weidman clashed twice, and their encounters marked a pivotal moment in the middleweight division.

The first fight occurred at UFC 162 on July 6, 2013. Chris Weidman shocked the MMA world by knocking out Anderson Silva and claiming the middleweight title. This victory ended Silva’s record-breaking winning streak.

Their second bout took place at UFC 168 on December 28, 2013. Weidman once again defeated Silva, this time by TKO, after a gruesome leg injury forced Silva to concede. This marked the end of Silva’s dominant reign and established Chris Weidman as the new middleweight champion.

While Anderson Silva and Chris Weidman only faced each other twice, their matchups altered the course of the middleweight division, ending one era and beginning another.

These UFC stars, who have faced each other multiple times, have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their rivalries have created some of the most memorable moments in UFC history, captivating fans and showcasing the resilience, determination, and skill of these fighters. Whether it’s the fiery trilogy of Tito Ortiz and Ken Shamrock or the modern-day drama of Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier, these matchups remind us of the enduring appeal and excitement of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. As the sport continues to evolve, it’s only a matter of time before new rivalries emerge, adding to the rich tapestry of the UFC’s history.