Sherdog’s Top 10: American Mixed Martial Artists

2. Dan Henderson

Still the only fighter to simultaneously hold major mixed martial arts championships in two divisions, Henderson forged a legacy that will stand the test of time.

Victories over a litany of contemporaries, MMA stars and fellow all-time greats -- Michael Bisping, Mauricio Rua (twice), Fedor Emelianenko, Rich Franklin, Wanderlei Silva, Vitor Belfort, Murilo Bustamante (twice), Renato Sobral and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira -- left him a with a resume few can match. Henderson wrestled collegiately at Cal State Fullerton and Arizona State University before twice qualifying for the Olympics. Upon transitioning to MMA, he became known for a powerful right hand that resulted in a number of highlight-reel knockouts.

Henderson excelled well into his 40s but was at his peak in the Japan-based Pride Fighting Championships organization. There, he claimed titles as a middleweight and light heavyweight, cementing his place as an all-time great. Henderson retired following a split decision defeat to Bisping at UFC 204, having failed in his final attempt to secure Ultimate Fighting Championship gold.

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