5 Youngest Middleweight Champions In UFC History
In the high-octane world of mixed martial arts, becoming a champion is the pinnacle of success. It’s a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. The UFC, being the premier organisation in the sport, has seen a roster of remarkable champions throughout its history. Some of these champions achieved their glory at a remarkably young age, defying expectations and leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Let’s take a closer look at the five youngest middleweight champions in UFC history.
#5. Carlos Newton
Carlos Newton, the “Ronin” of MMA, was not only one of the youngest middleweight champions but also one of the most exciting fighters of his era. Newton’s specialty was his exceptional submission game, a skill set that garnered admiration even from fans who typically disdained grappling.
At the tender age of 24, Newton achieved the unthinkable. He faced Pat Miletich for the UFC welterweight championship at UFC 31. In a thrilling third-round scramble against the fence, Newton locked in an airtight bulldog choke, forcing Miletich to tap out. At that moment, he became the UFC welterweight champion.
#4. Josh Barnett
Josh Barnett, known as “The Warmaster,” is a heavyweight MMA legend who has left his mark across numerous promotions. With his catch wrestling background and grappling prowess, Barnett was a force to be reckoned with during the early years of his MMA career.
At the age of 24, Barnett faced MMA icon Randy Couture, a seasoned veteran, for the UFC heavyweight championship. In a stunning turn of events, Barnett secured a second-round TKO victory over Couture. This victory was a significant milestone, but a positive PED test tarnished his reign as champion. Nevertheless, his legacy in the sport remained intact.
#3. José Aldo
José Aldo, often referred to as “Scarface,” experienced a meteoric rise in the featherweight division. At just 24 years old, he achieved a feat that eluded many fighters: capturing the UFC featherweight championship.
Before his stunning 13-second knockout loss to Conor McGregor, Aldo was virtually unbeatable. He held an impressive 10-fight winning streak, including victories over notable opponents like Urijah Faber and Cub Swanson. His journey culminated in a TKO win over Manny Gamburyan at WEC 51, where he claimed the promotion’s featherweight title. Upon the WEC-UFC merger, Aldo was crowned the UFC featherweight king.
#2. Frank Shamrock
Frank Shamrock, the younger brother of MMA legend Ken Shamrock, faced the unique challenge of living up to his family’s well-known name. At the age of 25, he rose to the occasion and etched his name in MMA history.
Shamrock’s moment of glory came at UFC Japan, where he battled wrestling great and Olympic gold medalist Kevin Jackson. In a spectacular display of his skills, Shamrock secured a lightning-fast victory, ending the fight within just 16 seconds of the first round. This win not only halted Jackson’s undefeated streak but also made Shamrock the inaugural UFC light heavyweight champion.
#1. Jon Jones: The Youngest Champion in UFC History
“It’s difficult to imagine anyone breaking Jon Jones’ record as the youngest champion in UFC history.”
Jon Jones, often hailed as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, achieved a historic milestone when he became the UFC light heavyweight champion at the age of 23. With a near-flawless record, Jones is renowned for his dominance inside the octagon.
In a fight against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, who had recently dethroned Lyoto Machida, Jones delivered a brutal beating. The fight was expected to be competitive, but Jones left Rua swollen and battered, causing the Brazilian to tap out due to strikes. At just 23 years old, Jon Jones became the UFC light heavyweight champion, a record that may stand the test of time.
These five fighters defied the odds and achieved greatness at a young age, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of mixed martial arts. Their stories serve as an inspiration to all aspiring fighters, reminding them that age is no barrier to success in the unforgiving arena of the UFC.
