Sherdog’s Top 10: Winningest UFC Fighters

Brian KnappSep 21, 2016

2. Michael Bisping (19-7)

He was for years labeled as the prototypical bridesmaid, a consistently good fighter who could never be considered great because of his inability to get over the hump and capture a UFC championship. That perception changed forever at UFC 199, as Bisping upset Luke Rockhold for the middleweight title and added a signature achievement to his legacy.

Bisping got his foot in the door with the Ultimate Fighting Championship by winning Season 3 of “The Ultimate Fighter.” He won his first four fights inside the Octagon before losing a controversial split decision to Rashad Evans at UFC 78 in November 2007. Bisping was undeterred, as he downshifted to 185 pounds, went 11-6 over his next 17 appearances and kept his name relevant despite high-profile losses to Rockhold, Tim Kennedy, Vitor Belfort, Chael Sonnen, Wanderlei Silva and Dan Henderson.

“The Count” was not viewed as a serious title contender as 2016 dawned. However, a unanimous decision victory over the great Anderson Silva raised more than a few eyebrows and put him in position for the most significant opportunity of his career. When Chris Weidman withdrew from his clash with Rockhold at UFC 199, Bisping moved in to fill the void on short notice. Though he was a heavy underdog, the Brit put away Rockhold with punches 3:36 into the first round and took his rightful place on the middleweight throne.

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