Everything a New UFC fan Needs to Know in 10 Minutes

Summary

This video offers a beginner's guide to understanding UFC and MMA, covering key historical figures and events. The speaker highlights foundational moments, like the UFC's creation in 1993 and legends such as Royce Gracie, Jon Jones, and GSP. The video explains the rise of Conor McGregor and the impact of the Dagestan fighters led by Khabib. It also touches on important rules and misconceptions new fans should avoid. Designed for newcomers, this guide helps viewers sound knowledgeable during fight discussions, while offering entertainment for long-time fans.

Takeaways

• 😀 UFC was founded in 1993, and its first-ever champion was Royce Gracie, though he is not considered one of the GOATs (Greatest of All Time).
• 💪 The Pioneer Era of UFC (before 2005) is less relevant to modern fans, but names like Ken Shamrock, Randy Couture, and Chuck Liddell are legendary.
• 🤼 Pride FC was a Japanese organization and rival to the UFC, later bought by the UFC. Notable names from Pride include Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson.
• 🏆 Jon Jones is widely considered one of the GOATs despite a disqualification loss. He has dominated for years and is often listed as the number one or number two fighter in history.
• 💉 Jon Jones has been involved in steroid scandals, but many of his opponents were also suspected of using performance-enhancing drugs.
• 🇨🇦 Georges St-Pierre (GSP) ruled the welterweight division and is considered better than Kamaru Usman, being a top contender for the GOAT title.
• 🥋 Anderson Silva, another GOAT contender, is often compared to modern fighter Israel Adesanya but with more charisma and Brazilian roots.
• 👊 Conor McGregor is credited with bringing a new wave of popularity to the UFC but should not be ranked among the top 3 fighters. He never defended his featherweight title.
• 👩‍🦰 Amanda Nunes is the undisputed GOAT of women's MMA, while Ronda Rousey helped bring attention to women's UFC fights.
• 📚 For new MMA fans, this guide gives essential names and eras to know, with an emphasis on learning quietly and not being 'that guy' yelling at the TV.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the video?

The video aims to provide a beginner's guide to the UFC and MMA for new fans, helping them become more knowledgeable about the sport.

Why does the speaker mention that everyone starts as a casual fan?

The speaker emphasizes that everyone begins as a casual fan to encourage new fans and reassure them that it's normal to start with limited knowledge.

Who was the first UFC champion, and what is his significance?

The first UFC champion was Royce Gracie, known for pioneering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in MMA. While he's important historically, the speaker notes that he would be considered average in today's UFC.

Do new fans need to know about the pioneer era of UFC?

No, the speaker mentions that knowing about the pioneer era before 2005 is not necessary to seem knowledgeable about the UFC today.

Who are some key fighters from the pioneer era of the UFC?

Key fighters include Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, Randy Couture, Chuck Liddell, and Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson. Many of these fighters were also involved in Pride, a rival organization.

Why does the speaker call Jon Jones one of the greatest UFC fighters?

The speaker praises Jon Jones for his dominance over a long period, comparing it to the time between the release of GTA V and GTA VI, despite controversies like steroid use.

What is the speaker's stance on Conor McGregor in a 'greatest of all time' discussion?

The speaker warns new fans not to claim Conor McGregor as one of the top three UFC fighters, considering him top 20 but not among the greatest champions due to his lack of title defenses.

What did Conor McGregor contribute to the UFC, according to the speaker?

Conor McGregor is credited with bringing significant attention to the UFC, essentially marking a second 'rebirth' of the organization in 2015 and ushering in the superstar era.

Who are the important figures in women's MMA mentioned in the video?

Key figures include Ronda Rousey, Amanda Nunes, Zhang Weili, and Joanna Jędrzejczyk, with Amanda Nunes being described as the undisputed greatest female fighter.

What advice does the speaker give about attending UFC watch parties?

The speaker advises new fans to avoid common rookie mistakes like calling for fighters to 'stand up' during a fight, and instead to observe and learn quietly.