10 Fierce and Fabulous Female MMA Fighters Who Dominated the Last Decade

In the last decade, mixed martial arts (MMA) has transformed into a global phenomenon, largely due to the incredible talent and charisma of female fighters. These remarkable women have not only showcased their skills but have also shattered stereotypes and inspired countless fans. Whether through record-breaking performances or record-setting events, these athletes have left a significant impact on the sport. Let's explore the incredible journeys and achievements of ten incredible female MMA fighters who have dominated the octagon in the past ten years.

1. Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey is credited with bringing women’s MMA to the forefront. As the first female fighter signed by the UFC, she quickly became a sensation. Rousey captured the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship and nailed six successful title defenses, each victory showcasing her iconic armbar submission technique. With her combination of charisma and talent, she became a household name, also making her mark in Hollywood films. Rousey’s fight against Sara McMann at UFC 170 drew over 560,000 pay-per-view buys, substantiating her immense popularity.

2. Amanda Nunes

Amanda Nunes is a legend in her own right, often discussed among the greatest female fighters in history. She stands out as the first woman in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously—Bantamweight and Featherweight. Her record includes notable victories against formidable opponents, with her win over Ronda Rousey at UFC 207 marking a turning point in her career. This fight alone garnered around 1.1 million pay-per-view buys. Nunes's ability to secure first-round finishes, including a knockout of Cris Cyborg, has showcased her exceptional striking power and Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills.

3. Joanna Jedrzejczyk

Joanna Jedrzejczyk is celebrated for her striking precision and fierce work ethic. As a former UFC Women's Strawweight Champion, she defended her title five times within a two-year span. Her striking accuracy consistently reached over 60% during her championship reign, making her a fan favorite. Fight night appearances, especially her encounter with Jessica Penne at UFC Fight Night 65, where she won by TKO, highlighted her ability to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

4. Valentina Shevchenko

Valentina Shevchenko has solidified her status as the reigning UFC Flyweight Champion. A masterful striker with a strong Muay Thai background, she has a diverse skill set that helps her dominate opponents. In her most recent title defense against Taila Santos, Shevchenko secured a narrow split decision victory, showcasing her adaptability and fight intelligence. Her striking accuracy has been reported at an impressive 54%, proving just how effective she is in the octagon.

5. Rose Namajunas

Rose Namajunas embodies resilience and strategic thinking in fights. The former Strawweight Champion demonstrated her capabilities when she dethroned Joanna Jedrzejczyk at UFC 217, a fight that surprised many and garnered around 800,000 pay-per-view buys. Known for her grounded personality, Namajunas connects with fans and inspires many through her journey of overcoming challenges, both in and out of the octagon.

6. Cris Cyborg

Cris Cyborg is a trailblazer in women's MMA. With knockout power and an explosive fighting style, she has collected championships across several promotions including Strikeforce, Invicta, and UFC. Cyborg's ability to draw massive crowds was evident during her fight against Yana Kunitskaya at UFC 222, which featured a stunning first-round knockout. Her presence in the octagon remains unmatched, consistently attracting attention from fans worldwide.

7. Angela Lee

Angela Lee, competing in ONE Championship, has made significant strides as a martial artist. As a multi-division champion, Lee combines Brazilian jiu-jitsu with striking to create a dynamic fighting style. Her recent title defense against Xiong Jingnan showed her determination and skill, solidifying her place among the top female fighters. With a finishing rate of 83% in her career, her journey reflects hard work and passion.

8. Tatiana Suarez

Tatiana Suarez is a promising name in the women’s MMA scene, known for her dominant wrestling and grappling skills. She made a significant impact in the UFC Strawweight division and holds an undefeated record. Despite facing injuries, her drive to return and compete showcases her resilience. Her most recent fight against Montana De La Rosa ended in a unanimous decision victory, affirming her skill and potential for success in the future.

9. Mackenzie Dern

Mackenzie Dern is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt who rapidly ascended in the MMA world. With her ground game complemented by improving striking, Dern captured attention in fights like her battle with Marina Rodriguez, which ended in a close split decision. Her grappling accolades, including becoming the World Jiu-Jitsu Champion, provide a solid foundation for her MMA career, highlighting her potential as a top contender.

10. Leticia Ribeiro

While not as widely recognized, Leticia Ribeiro plays a crucial role in women’s MMA. As an accomplished Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner and coaches many female fighters, she has helped shape upcoming talent. By sharing her vast knowledge and experience in combat sports, Ribeiro empowers her students, ensuring that the next generation of fighters is ready to face challenges and achieve greatness.

Final Thoughts

The previous decade has showcased female fighters who are not just athletes but also trailblazers for future generations. Each of these ten women has shaped the narrative of women's MMA, demonstrating that passion, skill, and dedication can propel one to greatness. From Ronda Rousey’s record-setting achievements to Amanda Nunes’ dominance in the octagon, these fighters continue to inspire young women to chase their dreams in mixed martial arts.

Looking ahead, it will be exciting to witness the rise of future female MMA stars. Which fighters do you think will join the ranks of legends in the coming decade? The future is bright, and we eagerly anticipate unfolding stories of talent and strength!