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A strong bond exists between the United States and the sport of mixed martial arts, dating back well before the first Ultimate Fighting Championship event on Nov. 12, 1993.

America not surprisingly has produced a healthy share of all-time greats, populating MMA with enduring champions, unforgettable characters and historic moments where time seemed to stand still. From hated villains and blood-and-guts warriors to larger-than-life heroes and regal tacticians, their accomplishments in many ways bind the sport’s rugged past to its riveting present and promising future.

The latest installment in the Sherdog Top 10 series examines the greatest mixed martial artists to ever emerge from the United States. Nominees had to have at least one major MMA championship on their mantle.

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HONORABLE MENTIONS: Daniel Cormier, Frank Shamrock, Ronda Rousey, Tito Ortiz, Quinton Jackson, Urijah Faber, Rich Franklin, Mark Coleman, Luke Rockhold, Chris Weidman, Josh Barnett, Nick Diaz, Cain Velasquez, Rashad Evans, Frank Mir, Benson Henderson, Pat Miletich, Carlos Condit, Anthony Pettis, Forrest Griffin, Gilbert Melendez, Eddie Alvarez, Jake Shields.

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