Raphael Assuncao

Raphael Assuncao was one of the most consistent contenders the bantamweight division has ever had, a technical Brazilian veteran who spent the better part of a decade beating ranked fighters near the top of the rankings. His combination of crisp counter-striking, strong jiu-jitsu and high fight IQ made him a difficult, cerebral matchup for anyone.

During his prime, Assuncao put together a long winning streak that included a decision over a young, pre-title TJ Dillashaw and wins over the likes of Marlon Moraes and Rob Font. By results, he repeatedly looked like a deserving title challenger, yet the championship opportunity never quite aligned before the division's rising wave arrived.

A loss to Cory Sandhagen marked the turning point, and a late-career skid eventually led to his retirement. Assuncao steps away as one of the more accomplished bantamweights never to fight for the belt, a quiet, professional technician remembered as a true fighter's fighter.