40 Longest UFC Careers (11 Years Minimum!)

In the world of mixed martial arts, the length of a fighter’s career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a testament to their endurance, skill, and adaptability in one of the most demanding sports.

40 Longest UFC Careers

For this analysis, we have chosen to track the length of UFC careers based on the actual days of active competition within the UFC. 

This means counting the days from a fighter’s debut in the UFC to their last fight in each of their UFC stints. For the fighters still active, the cutoff date is November 26, 2023, until the article is updated next year.

This approach focuses exclusively on the periods when the fighters were actively competing in the UFC, providing a precise measure of their time in the organization.

By doing so, we avoid the complexities and variances of tracking periods of inactivity, retirement, or participation in other MMA promotions, which can differ significantly among fighters and might not always be clearly documented.

1. Clay Guida (17 Years, 1 Month, 12 Days – Active)

Clay Guida, renowned for his high energy and relentless fighting style, has been a consistent figure in the UFC since 2006 and continues to compete actively.

• UFC Debut: October 14, 2006
• Active Until: Present (as of November 26, 2023)
• Scheduled Fight: December 2, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration (as of November 26, 2023): 17 years, 1 month, 12 days (6,254 days)

This duration will continue to increase as Guida remains active and has a fight scheduled. 

2. Andrei Arlovski (16 Years, 8 Months, 25 Days – Active)

Andrei Arlovski has had a significant presence in the UFC, with his career spanning two distinct periods.

• First UFC Stint: November 17, 2000, to March 1, 2008
• Duration: 7 years, 3 months, 13 days
• Second UFC Stint: June 14, 2014, to Present (as of November 26, 2023)
• Duration: 9 years, 5 months, 12 days
• Total UFC Career Duration (as of November 26, 2023): 16 years, 8 months, 25 days (6,116 days)

This duration is still increasing as Arlovski remains active.

3. Ed Herman (16 Years, 9 Months, 22 Days – Retired)

Ed Herman’s UFC career is marked by his longevity and consistency, showcasing his resilience and skill in the octagon.

• UFC Career Start: June 24, 2006, at UFC – The Ultimate Fighter 3 Finale
• Retirement from UFC: April 15, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 16 years, 9 months, 22 days (6,135 days)

This duration represents the total time Ed Sherman was active in the UFC from his debut to his retirement.

4. BJ Penn (15 Years, 11 Months, 5 Days – Retired)

BJ “The Prodigy” Penn has had a storied career in the UFC with multiple stints.

• First UFC Stint: May 4, 2001, to January 31, 2004
• Duration: 2 years, 8 months, 28 days (1008 days)
• Second UFC Stint: March 4, 2006, to May 11, 2019
• Duration: 13 years, 2 months, 7 days (4813 days)
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 11 months, 5 days (5,821 days)

BJ Penn is known for his remarkable contributions to the sport of mixed martial arts and his legacy in the UFC.

5. Frankie Edgar (15 Years, 9 Months, 9 Days – Retired)

Frankie Edgar’s UFC career is marked by his remarkable longevity and consistent performance over a span of nearly 16 years.

• UFC Debut: February 3, 2007
• Retirement: November 12, 2022
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 9 months, 9 days (5,757 days)

Edgar officially retired after his last UFC fight in November 2022, marking the end of a distinguished career in the octagon.

6. Diego Sanchez (15 Years, 5 Months, 17 Days – Left the UFC)

Known for his enduring presence in the UFC, Diego Sanchez has been a notable figure in the octagon.

• UFC Debut: April 9, 2005
• Last UFC Fight: September 26, 2020
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 5 months, 17 days (5,639 days)

Sanchez moved to fight for EFC after his last UFC fight.

7. Matt Brown (15 Years, 5 Months, 5 Days – Active)

Matt Brown’s UFC journey, characterized by his resilience and tenacity, has been ongoing since his debut in 2008.

• UFC Debut: June 21, 2008 (The Ultimate Fighter 7 Finale)
• Active Status: Still fighting as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 5 months, 5 days (5,636 days)

Brown continues to compete in the UFC, with his career duration extending with each passing day.

8. Jon Jones (15 Years, 3 Months, 17 Days – Active)

Jon Jones, renowned as the best MMA fighter of all time, has been a prominent figure in the organization since his debut in 2008.

• UFC Debut: August 9, 2008 (UFC 87)
• Active Status: Still fighting as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 3 months, 17 days (5,599 days)

Jones’ career duration continues to grow as he remains an active competitor in the UFC.

9. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua (15 Years, 3 Months, 30 Days – Retired)

Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, a legendary figure in MMA, ended his illustrious UFC career with a final bout in 2023.

• UFC Debut: September 22, 2007
• Retirement: January 21, 2023 (Last fight at UFC 283, lost via technical knockout in the first round)
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 3 months, 30 days (5,590 days)

Rua’s career was marked by memorable fights and a significant impact on the sport, culminating in a heartfelt retirement announcement post his last fight.

10. Nate Diaz (15 Years, 2 Months, 18 Days – Retired) 

Nate Diaz, known for his distinctive style and memorable fights, concluded his UFC career with a notable victory in 2022.

• UFC Debut: June 23, 2007
• Retirement: September 10, 2022 (Last fight at UFC 279, victory over Tony Ferguson)
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 2 months, 18 days (5,555 days)

Diaz’s career in the UFC was marked by significant bouts and a strong fan following, culminating in a triumphant exit from the sport.

11. Jim Miller (15 Years, 1 Month, 8 Days – Active)

Jim Miller has been a steadfast and enduring presence in the UFC, showcasing his resilience and skill since his debut in 2008.

• UFC Debut: October 18, 2008 (UFC 89)
• Active Status: Still fighting as of November 26, 2023, with a scheduled fight on January 13, 2024
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 1 month, 8 days (5,521 days)

Miller’s career duration is ongoing, with his next fight scheduled for January 13, 2024, further extending his time in the UFC.

12. Rafael Dos Anjos (15 Years, 11 Days – Active)

Rafael dos Anjos has demonstrated remarkable longevity and skill in the UFC, maintaining a consistent presence since his debut in 2008.

• UFC Debut: November 15, 2008 (UFC 91)
• Active Status: Still fighting as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 15 years, 11 days (5,486 days)

Dos Anjos continues to compete in the UFC, adding to his already impressive tenure in the organization.

13. Anderson Silva (14 years, 4 Months, 4 Days – Retired)

Anderson Silva, often regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, had a remarkable UFC career.

• UFC Debut: June 28, 2006
• Last UFC Fight: October 31, 2020
• Total UFC Career Duration: 14 years, 4 months, 4 days (5,253 days)

Silva’s reign as the UFC middleweight champion and his incredible striking skills left an indelible mark on the sport of mixed martial arts.

14. Thiago Alves (14 Years, 2 Months, 4 Days – Retired)

Thiago Alves showcased a long and impactful career in the UFC, marked by memorable fights.

• UFC Debut: October 3, 2005
• Last UFC Fight: December 7, 2019
• Total UFC Career Duration: 14 years, 2 months, 4 days (5,191 days)

Alves was officially released by the UFC on January 11, 2020, but his UFC career duration is counted only until his last fight.

15. Jeremy Stephens (14 Years, 1 Month, 21 Days – Retired)

Jeremy Stephens, known for his powerful striking and exciting fights, had a notable UFC career spanning over a decade, ending with his retirement in early 2022.

• UFC Debut: May 26, 2007
• Last UFC Fight: July 17, 2021
• Retirement: January 2022
• Total UFC Career Duration: 14 years, 1 month, 21 days (5,163 days)

16. Michael Johnson (13 Years, 11 Months, 22 Days – Active)

Michael Johnson, recognized for his dynamic fighting style and agility, has been a consistent and thrilling competitor in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: December 4, 2010
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 11 months, 22 days (5,104 days)

Johnson continues to compete in the UFC, with his next fight scheduled for February 10, 2024, showcasing his dedication and prowess in the sport.

17. Darren Elkins (13 Years, 8 Months, 5 Days – Active)

Darren Elkins has maintained a consistent presence in the UFC since his debut in 2010, continuing to compete actively in the organization.

• UFC Debut: March 21, 2010 (UFC on Versus 1)
• Status: Active as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 8 months, 5 days (4,996 days)

18. Demian Maia (13 Years, 7 Months, 23 Days – Semi-Retired)

Demian Maia, known for his exceptional grappling skills, had a long tenure in the UFC, though he hasn’t officially retired as of 2023.

• UFC Debut: October 20, 2007
• Last Fight: June 12, 2021
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 7 months, 23 days (4,981 days)

Despite not officially announcing his retirement, Maia’s last UFC appearance was in 2021, and as of now, there are no scheduled fights for him.

19. Brad Tavares (13 Years, 5 Months, 10 Days – Active)

Brad Tavares has been a steady figure in the UFC since his debut in 2010, showcasing his skills and resilience in the octagon.

• UFC Debut: June 16, 2010 (The TUF 11 Finale)
• Status: Active as of November 26, 2023, with a fight scheduled for February 10, 2024
• Total UFC Career Duration: 3 years, 5 months, 10 days (4,917 days)

Tavares’ career duration will continue to extend, with his next fight scheduled for February 10, 2024.

20. Court McGee (13 Years, 5 Months, 10 Days – Active)

Court McGee has demonstrated remarkable longevity in the UFC, maintaining his competitive edge since his debut in 2010.

• UFC Debut: June 16, 2010 (The TUF 11 Finale)
• Status: Active as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 5 months, 10 days (4,917 days)

McGee’s career duration is ongoing, as he remains an active competitor in the UFC.

21. Charles Oliveira (13 Years, 3 Months, 25 Days – Active)

Charles Oliveira, a former UFC Lightweight Champion, has been a consistent and formidable presence in the UFC since his debut in 2010.

• UFC Debut: August 1, 2010 (UFC on Versus 2)
• Status: Active as of November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 3 months, 25 days (4,864 days)

Oliveira’s career duration is still increasing, as he remains an active fighter and is expected to continue competing in 2024.

22. Joe Lauzon (13 Years, 25 Days – Semi-Retired)

Joe Lauzon’s UFC career, known for his grappling prowess and exciting finishes, spanned over a decade, ending with his last fight in 2019. Although he hasn’t officially announced his retirement, he has been inactive since.

• UFC Debut: September 23, 2006
• Last Fight: October 18, 2019
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 25 days (4,761 days)

Lauzon’s tenure in the UFC is highlighted by numerous submission victories and Fight of the Night honors, making him a fan favorite for his relentless pursuit of finishes.

23. Edson Barboza (13 Years, 1 Month, 6 Days – Active)

Renowned for his striking prowess and exciting fights, Edson Barboza has been a significant presence in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: November 20, 2010
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 13 years, 1 month, 6 days (4,754 days)

Barboza continues to compete in the UFC, showcasing his skill and determination in the octagon.

24. Dustin Poirier (12 Years, 10 Months, 25 Days – Active)

Dustin Poirier, known for his heart and skill inside the octagon, has been a prominent and respected fighter in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: January 1, 2011
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 10 months, 25 days (4,712 days)

Poirier continues to be an active and influential figure in the UFC, demonstrating his passion and talent in the sport.

25. Rani Yahya (12 Years, 10 Months, 4 Days – Active)

Rani Yahya, known for his exceptional grappling skills and submission prowess, has been a consistent and formidable presence in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: January 22, 2011
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 10 months, 4 days (4,691 days)

Yahya continues to showcase his talent and experience in the UFC, maintaining his status as a skilled and respected fighter.

26. Robbie Lawler (12 Years, 9 Months, 27 Days – Retired)

Robbie Lawler’s UFC career, marked by resilience and a thrilling fighting style, culminated with his retirement following a memorable victory.

• First UFC Stint: May 10, 2002, to October 22, 2004
• Duration: 2 years, 5 months, 12 days (893 days)
• Second UFC Stint: February 23, 2013, to July 8, 2023 (Retired)
• Duration: 10 years, 4 months, 15 days (3784 days)
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 9 months, 27 days (4,677 days)

27. John Makdessi (12 Years, 9 Months, 29 Days – Left the UFC)

John Makdessi, known for his striking skills and competitive spirit, had a significant career in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: December 11, 2010
• Last UFC Fight: September 9, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 9 months, 29 days (4,655 days)

Makdessi’s tenure in the UFC spanned over a decade, culminating in his last fight on September 9, 2023, before being released on October 18, 2023.

28. Alexander Gustafsson (12 Years, 8 Months, 9 Days – Semi-Retired)

Alexander Gustafsson has been a notable figure in the UFC, showcasing his skills from his debut in 2009 until his last fight in 2022. 

While not officially retired, his current status leans towards semi-retirement due to inactivity.

• UFC Debut: November 14, 2009 (UFC 105)
• Last Fight: July 23, 2022
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 8 months, 9 days (4,636 days)

Gustafsson’s career status is currently ambiguous, with no fights scheduled in 2023 or 2024, suggesting a possible end to his active fighting days in the UFC.

Therefore, his total career duration count runs from his UFC debut until his last UFC fight on July 23, 2022.

29. Rashad Evans (12 Years, 7 Months, 4 Days – Retired)

Rashad Evans had a distinguished UFC career, marked by his fighter evolution and championship reign.

• UFC Debut: November 5, 2005
• Last UFC Fight: June 9, 2018
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 7 months, 4 days (4,602 days)

Evans’ career in the UFC is remembered for his significant contributions to the light heavyweight division.

30. Tony Ferguson (12 Years, 5 Months, 22 Days – Active)

Tony “El Cucuy” Ferguson has had a notable and enduring career in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: June 4, 2011
• Active Status: Still fighting as of November 26, 2023, with his next fight Scheduled for December 16, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 5 months, 22 days (4,563 days)

Ferguson is known for his unorthodox style and resilience, which has kept him competitive in the lightweight division for over a decade.

31. Dominick Cruz (12 Years, 4 Months, 24 Days – Active)

Dominick Cruz, renowned for his unique movement and technical mastery, has been a prominent and influential figure in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: July 2, 2011
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 4 months, 24 days (4,530 days)

Cruz continues to compete in the UFC, demonstrating his skill and resilience in the sport.

32. Carlos Condit (12 Years, 3 Months, 10 Days – Retired)

Carlos Condit, known for his exciting fighting style and remarkable tenacity, had an illustrious career in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: April 1, 2009
• Last UFC Fight: July 10, 2021
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 3 months, 10 days (4,483 days)

Condit retired from MMA after a storied career, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most entertaining and skilled fighters in the sport.

33. Junior Dos Santos (12 Years, 1 Month, 17 Days – Left the UFC)

A formidable figure in the heavyweight division, Junior dos Santos has been a prominent fighter in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: October 25, 2008
• Last UFC Fight: December 12, 2020
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 1 month, 17 days (4,427 days)

After his tenure in the UFC, dos Santos moved to fight in GFC MMA.

34. Ben Rothwell (12 Years, 20 Days – Retired)

Ben Rothwell, known for his power and resilience, had a notable career in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: October 24, 2009
• Last UFC Fight: November 13, 2021
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 20 days (4,400 days)

Following his UFC career, Rothwell transitioned to BKFC, continuing his journey in combat sports.

35. Cub Swanson (12 Years, 14 Days – Active)

Cub Swanson, known for his exciting fighting style and resilience, has been a significant and enduring presence in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: November 12, 2011
• Current Date: November 26, 2023
• Total UFC Career Duration: 12 years, 14 days (4,394 days)

Swanson continues to be an active and respected competitor in the UFC, demonstrating his dedication and skill in the octagon.

36. Gleison Tibau (11 Years, 6 Months, 14 Days – Retired)

Gleison Tibau, a Brazilian lightweight fighter, had a lengthy UFC career.

• UFC Debut: November 18, 2006
• Last UFC Fight: June 1, 2018
• Total UFC Career Duration: 11 years, 6 months, 14 days (4,197 days)

Tibau’s time in the UFC’s lightweight division made him a respected and durable competitor in the organization.

37. Michael Bisping (11 Years, 5 Months, 1 Day – Retired)

Renowned for his skill and tenacity in the octagon, Michael Bisping has been a prominent figure in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: June 24, 2006
• Last UFC Fight: November 25, 2017
• Total UFC Career Duration: 11 years, 5 months, 1 day (4,168 days)

Bisping’s career in the UFC spanned over a decade, marking him as a veteran and a legend of the sport.

38. Donald Cerrone (11 Years, 4 Months, 27 Days  – Retired)

Known for his exceptional fighting spirit and versatility in the UFC, Donald Cerrone has been a dynamic and exciting fighter in the octagon.

• UFC Debut: February 5, 2011
• Last UFC Fight: July 2, 2022
• Total UFC Career Duration: 11 years, 4 months, 27 Days (4,164 days)

Cerrone’s career in the UFC has spanned over a decade, showcasing his resilience and skill in the sport.

39. Nik Lentz (11 Years, 4 Months, 4 Days – Retired)

Known for his resilience and technical skills in the octagon, Nik Lentz has been a notable competitor in the UFC.

• UFC Debut: September 19, 2009
• Last UFC Fight: January 23, 2021
• Total UFC Career Duration: 11 years, 4 months, 4 days (4,141 days)

Lentz’s career in the UFC spanned over a decade, showcasing his dedication and prowess in mixed martial arts.

40. Gray Maynard (11 Years, 3 Months, 13 Days – Retired)

Known for his competitive spirit in the UFC, Gray Maynard has been a significant athlete in the octagon for over a decade.

• UFC Debut: June 23, 2007
• Last UFC Fight: October 6, 2018
• Total UFC Career Duration: 11 years, 3 months, 13 days (4,119 days)

To Conclude

This has been the ’40 longest UFC careers’ as of November 26, 2023. As many of these fighters have retired from MMA or left the UFC, the list will need to be updated.

This article will be updated and become the 50 longest UFC careers when the list becomes inaccurate and many changes have to be made.