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== Ultimate Fighting Championship ==
{{short description|American mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2023}}


The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a renowned mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company based in the United States. It is widely regarded as the premier organization in the sport of MMA, showcasing the world's top fighters across various weight classes. Established in 1993, the UFC has played a pivotal role in popularizing MMA and transforming it into a global phenomenon.
The '''Ultimate Fighting Championship''' ('''UFC''') is an American [[mixed martial arts]] (MMA) promotion company based in [[Las Vegas, Nevada]]. It is owned and operated by [[Endeavor Group Holdings]] along with [[Silver Lake Partners]], [[Kohlberg Kravis Roberts]], and [[MSD Capital]] through Zuffa, LLC. The UFC is the largest MMA promotion company in the world and features the highest-level fighters in the sport on its roster.


=== History ===
==History==
The UFC was founded in 1993 by [[Art Davie]], [[Rorion Gracie]], and [[Bob Meyrowitz]]. The first event, [[UFC 1]], was held on November 12, 1993, at the [[McNichols Sports Arena]] in [[Denver, Colorado]]. The event aimed to identify the most effective martial art in a real fight between competitors of different fighting disciplines, including [[boxing]], [[Brazilian jiu-jitsu]], [[wrestling]], [[muay Thai]], [[karate]], and other styles.


The UFC was founded by Art Davie and Rorion Gracie, with the inaugural event taking place on November 12, 1993, in Denver, Colorado. The concept behind the UFC was to determine the most effective martial art in real-life combat situations by pitting fighters from different disciplines against each other. The early events were known as "no-holds-barred" competitions, with minimal rules and regulations.
===Early Years===
In its early years, the UFC was known for its no-holds-barred approach, with minimal rules and no weight classes. This led to criticism and political pressure, resulting in the implementation of stricter rules and regulations. The introduction of weight classes, rounds, and the adoption of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts helped the UFC gain legitimacy and acceptance.


Over the years, the UFC faced numerous challenges, including criticism from politicians, regulatory bodies, and the media. In an effort to address these concerns and improve the sport's image, the UFC introduced weight classes, time limits, and additional rules to ensure fighter safety. This transition led to the development of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, which are now widely adopted by MMA organizations worldwide.
===Zuffa Era===
In 2001, the UFC was purchased by [[Zuffa, LLC]], a company owned by [[Frank Fertitta III]], [[Lorenzo Fertitta]], and [[Dana White]]. Under their leadership, the UFC underwent significant changes, including improved production values, marketing strategies, and the introduction of [[The Ultimate Fighter]], a reality television series that helped popularize the sport.


=== Growth and Popularity ===
===Modern Era===
The UFC has continued to grow, hosting events worldwide and featuring some of the most famous fighters in the sport, such as [[Conor McGregor]], [[Ronda Rousey]], and [[Khabib Nurmagomedov]]. The organization has also expanded its reach through partnerships with major broadcasters and digital platforms.


The UFC experienced significant growth in the early 2000s, largely due to the emergence of charismatic fighters such as Chuck Liddell, Randy Couture, and Tito Ortiz. The promotion also benefited from strategic partnerships and television deals, which helped expand its reach and attract a larger audience. In 2001, the UFC was acquired by Zuffa, LLC, a sports promotion company owned by brothers Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta.
==Rules and Regulations==
The UFC follows the [[Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts]], which include weight classes, timed rounds, and a list of fouls. Fighters compete in an [[octagon]]-shaped cage, and bouts are overseen by a referee and judges.


Under the Fertitta brothers' leadership, the UFC underwent a major transformation. They implemented a more professional approach to the sport, focusing on production value, marketing, and fighter development. The introduction of reality TV show "The Ultimate Fighter" in 2005 played a crucial role in exposing the UFC to a wider audience and creating a new generation of MMA fans.
==Championships==
The UFC awards championship titles in various weight classes, ranging from [[flyweight]] to [[heavyweight]]. Champions are determined through a series of fights, and title defenses are a key aspect of a fighter's career.


=== Weight Classes and Championships ===
==Impact and Legacy==
The UFC has played a significant role in the global popularity of MMA, helping to establish it as a mainstream sport. The organization has also contributed to the development of MMA as a legitimate athletic competition, with a focus on safety and sportsmanship.


The UFC currently features fighters competing in various weight classes, ranging from strawweight (115 pounds) to heavyweight (265 pounds and above). Each weight class has a champion, and title fights are highly anticipated events within the organization. The champions are considered the best fighters in their respective divisions and are often regarded as the pound-for-pound best in the sport.
==Related pages==
 
* [[Mixed martial arts]]
=== Events and Pay-Per-View ===
 
The UFC organizes numerous events throughout the year, including Fight Night events, which are broadcast on various platforms, and pay-per-view (PPV) events, which are the promotion's most significant revenue generators. PPV events feature high-profile matchups, title fights, and often attract a large global audience. The UFC has successfully expanded its reach internationally, hosting events in different countries and establishing a strong global fan base.
 
=== Impact and Legacy ===
 
The UFC's impact on the world of combat sports cannot be overstated. It has played a crucial role in elevating MMA from a niche sport to a mainstream phenomenon. The promotion has produced legendary fighters such as Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Jon Jones, who have become household names and inspired a new generation of athletes.
 
The UFC's success has also paved the way for other MMA organizations to thrive, creating a competitive landscape within the sport. Additionally, the UFC's influence extends beyond the octagon, as it has inspired the development of MMA gyms, training programs, and a vibrant community of fans and enthusiasts worldwide.
 
== See Also ==
 
* [[Mixed Martial Arts]]
* [[List of UFC champions]]
* [[Dana White]]
* [[Dana White]]
* [[The Ultimate Fighter]]
* [[The Ultimate Fighter]]
* [[List of UFC champions]]
==References==
* "UFC History." UFC.com. Accessed October 2023.
* "The Evolution of the UFC." ESPN.com. Accessed October 2023.
* "Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts." ABCBoxing.com. Accessed October 2023.


== References ==
==Gallery==
{{Reflist}}
<gallery>
File:UFC_Logo.svg|Current UFC logo
File:Royce_Gracie_2.jpg|[[Royce Gracie]], winner of UFC 1
File:WWE_-_Manchester_040498_(5).jpg|[[Ken Shamrock]], early UFC fighter
File:The_Ultimate_Fighter_Logo.jpg|Logo of ''[[The Ultimate Fighter]]''
File:UFC_88_-_Time_Square.JPG|UFC event promotion in [[Times Square]]
File:Fedor_vs_Coleman.JPG|[[Fedor Emelianenko]] vs. [[Mark Coleman]]
File:UFC_129.jpg|UFC 129 event
File:Anthony_Pettis_WEC_53.jpg|[[Anthony Pettis]]
File:Strikeforce_cage_2011-01-07.jpg|[[Strikeforce]] cage
File:Ronda_Rousey_retouch.jpg|[[Ronda Rousey]]
File:Chris_Weidman_knock_out_Anderson_Silva_at_UFC_162..jpg|[[Chris Weidman]] vs. [[Anderson Silva]]
File:UFC-Champs.PNG|UFC champions
File:AriannyLopez.png|[[Arianny Celeste]], UFC ring girl
</gallery>


== External Links ==
[[Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship]]
* [https://www.ufc.com/ Official UFC Website]
[[Category:Mixed martial arts organizations]]
* [https://www.ufc.com/news UFC News and Updates]
[[Category:Sports organizations established in 1993]]
* [https://www.ufc.com/rankings UFC Rankings]
{{dictionary-stub1}}

Revision as of 00:37, 10 February 2025

American mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company



The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is an American mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company based in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is owned and operated by Endeavor Group Holdings along with Silver Lake Partners, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, and MSD Capital through Zuffa, LLC. The UFC is the largest MMA promotion company in the world and features the highest-level fighters in the sport on its roster.

History

The UFC was founded in 1993 by Art Davie, Rorion Gracie, and Bob Meyrowitz. The first event, UFC 1, was held on November 12, 1993, at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado. The event aimed to identify the most effective martial art in a real fight between competitors of different fighting disciplines, including boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, muay Thai, karate, and other styles.

Early Years

In its early years, the UFC was known for its no-holds-barred approach, with minimal rules and no weight classes. This led to criticism and political pressure, resulting in the implementation of stricter rules and regulations. The introduction of weight classes, rounds, and the adoption of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts helped the UFC gain legitimacy and acceptance.

Zuffa Era

In 2001, the UFC was purchased by Zuffa, LLC, a company owned by Frank Fertitta III, Lorenzo Fertitta, and Dana White. Under their leadership, the UFC underwent significant changes, including improved production values, marketing strategies, and the introduction of The Ultimate Fighter, a reality television series that helped popularize the sport.

Modern Era

The UFC has continued to grow, hosting events worldwide and featuring some of the most famous fighters in the sport, such as Conor McGregor, Ronda Rousey, and Khabib Nurmagomedov. The organization has also expanded its reach through partnerships with major broadcasters and digital platforms.

Rules and Regulations

The UFC follows the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, which include weight classes, timed rounds, and a list of fouls. Fighters compete in an octagon-shaped cage, and bouts are overseen by a referee and judges.

Championships

The UFC awards championship titles in various weight classes, ranging from flyweight to heavyweight. Champions are determined through a series of fights, and title defenses are a key aspect of a fighter's career.

Impact and Legacy

The UFC has played a significant role in the global popularity of MMA, helping to establish it as a mainstream sport. The organization has also contributed to the development of MMA as a legitimate athletic competition, with a focus on safety and sportsmanship.

Related pages

References

  • "UFC History." UFC.com. Accessed October 2023.
  • "The Evolution of the UFC." ESPN.com. Accessed October 2023.
  • "Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts." ABCBoxing.com. Accessed October 2023.

Gallery