Fabricio Werdum

Fabricio Werdum is one of the great heavyweights in MMA history, a BJJ world champion who married his elite grappling to sharp, underrated Muay Thai. He authored two of the most significant wins the division has seen: a submission of the seemingly invincible Fedor Emelianenko that ended a legendary unbeaten streak, and a submission of Cain Velasquez in 2015 to capture the UFC heavyweight title.

Stylistically, Werdum was lethal the moment a fight hit the floor - his guard and submission game were among the best the weight class has ever produced - but he was also a capable, dangerous striker. He remained a top contender for years after his title reign before retiring as a true heavyweight great.

For new fans, Werdum is essential history: his win over Fedor and his title-winning submission of Velasquez are landmark moments. He's a perfect example of how world-class grappling can carry a fighter to the very top of even the biggest, most powerful division in the sport.