Over the last decade, multiple fights were showcased through various promotions. However, Demetrious Johnson has proven to be the most consistent fighter during that time span. With title reigns, streaks and records broken, he has certainly cemented quite the legacy for himself.
In 2010, Johnson was only labeled as a professional for three years. He entered the year with a record of 8-0, and started the decade by winning four of his first five fights. His only loss came against UFC legend Brad Pickett.
The UFC proceeded to purchase the WEC and acquired multiple fighters; including Johnson. After winning two bouts in 2011, he lost to Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz. The UFC then created a Flyweight division and put together a tournament to have their first champion at that weight class.
The tournament began in 2012, and Johnson fought Ian McCall twice as a result. The first encounter ended in a draw, while the rematch was awarded to Johnson by decision. In the finals against Joseph Benavidez, Johnson was crowned as the champion via split decision.
The following year, Johnson defended his title successfully against John Dodson, John Moraga, and Benavidez in a rematch.
From 2014-15, Johnson defeated Ali Baugtinov and Chris Cariaso. From there, overcame Kyoji Horiguchi via submission in the closing seconds to mark UFC history. In a rematch against Dodson, Johnson proved to be victorious once again. by in a rematch.
History continued to be made in 2017, as Johnson’s reign included wins over Henry Cejudo, Tim Elliot, Wilson Reis, and Ray Borg. By the end, his successful title defenses tied Anderson Silva for the most in UFC history.
The following year, Johnson lost in a rematch with Cejudo before being traded to ONE Championship in exchange for the then-undefeated Ben Askren. Since joining ONE, Johnson has not lost. In fact, he won three consecutive bouts en route to winning the Flyweight Grand Prix tournament. He will fight in 2020 for the ONE Flyweight championship.
In a 10-year span, Demetrious Johnson has held the UFC Flyweight championship, successfully defended the title 11 times, has four Performance of the Night awards, three Fight of the Night awards, as well as a Knockout and Submission of the Night award.
He has been called the Fighter of the Year by ESPY, Fox Sports and Bleacher Report for his work in the octagon. The 33-year old had an amazing decade, and very could see similar success in years to come.
Photo Credit- Twitter
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