Who Are the Top Five Best UFC Lightweight Champions of All Time?

After crowning a new champion of the division, I think it’s only fair to reflect on the previous dominant champions just so we know what Ilia Topuria is up against in terms of legacy building at 155-pounds. 

5. Charles Oliveira (UFC Lightweight Champion 2021-2022)

Charles Oliveira only had a very short run as the lightweight champion, but he has been a proven elite fighter for several years. He broke the UFC record for finishes and submissions and became a must-watch fighter. Even despite being viciously knocked out last Saturday, “Do Bronx” very much remains a fan-favourite.

4. Frankie Edgar (UFC Lightweight Champion 2010-2012)

Frankie Edgar is proof that bigger and better cardio and a bigger heart can see a smaller fighter overcome much bigger challenges. At 155-pounds, the American was often the much smaller fighter, but his elite toughness and cardio saw him win fights on volume and pure grit. Again, Edgar’s fighting style and personality made him a fan-favourite. 

3. BJ Penn (UFC Lightweight Champion 2008-2010)

Many of the newer UFC fans may only remember BJ Penn for his later years when he was on a huge losing streak. Nevertheless, prime BJ Penn was a legend and a savage finisher. His skill set was way ahead of his time during an era where a fighter would really only specialise in one area, he was an expert in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and boxing. 

2. Khabib Nurmagomedov (UFC Lightweight Champion 2018-2021)

Undefeated and utterly dominant, Khabib Nurmagomedov retired with his zero and his UFC lightweight title intact. He never lost a round until the Conor McGregor fight, and even then, he controlled the outcome before submitting his bitter rival with a face crank. The only criticism people have of the Russian is that he didn’t stay around long enough to truly cement his legacy.

1. Islam Makhachev (UFC Lightweight Champion 2022-2025)

From one Dagestani to another, Islam Makhachev just edges Khabib to be the best UFC lightweight champion in history. While Makhachev and Khabib both dominated opponents using their exceptional sambo skills, Makhachev added a different element: a good level of kickboxing – something his tutor never really focused on. Makhachev vacated the belt to pursue double champ status up at welterweight, but his lightweight legacy remains in place. Plus, he could always return 155-pounds in the future and reclaim the title off Ilia Topuria.