UFC CEO Dana White recently shared his picks for the Mount Rushmore of UFC fighters, a question often posed to prominent fighters in the sport. White's selections carry significant weight due to his position as the face of the top MMA promotion globally.
White's Mount Rushmore includes Jon Jones, Ronda Rousey, Georges St-Pierre (GSP), and Conor McGregor. Jones, the current UFC heavyweight champion, holds the top spot in White's ranking, despite ongoing debates about his pound-for-pound status.
Rousey, the former UFC women's bantamweight champion, earned her place for her groundbreaking impact on women's MMA. GSP, a former welterweight and middleweight champion, and McGregor, a former featherweight and lightweight champion, complete the list.
While Jones and GSP's positions are widely accepted due to their legendary status, Rousey's inclusion sparks discussion. White credits Rousey for inspiring the creation of a women's division in the UFC, underscoring her lasting influence on the sport.
However, some argue that fighters like Amanda Nunes, Anderson Silva, Demetrious Johnson, and Daniel Cormier deserve consideration for their remarkable careers. Nunes, a dominant two-division champion, particularly stands out for her achievements.
White's choices reflect his emphasis on fighters who have significantly impacted the sport and attracted a large fan base. While there are differing opinions on the Mount Rushmore of UFC fighters, White's selections align with his priorities as a key figure in the MMA world.
Ultimately, the debate over the greatest UFC fighters highlights the diverse perspectives within the MMA community. Each fan may have their own Mount Rushmore based on personal criteria and preferences.