Legends of UFC: Mauricio Rua

Mauricio Rua got some fantastic news at UFC 301 on Saturday. “Shogun” was being inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, with the Brazilian legend making notable accomplishments. That includes winning the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.

Rua will enter the Hall of Fame as part of the pioneer class, with his induction happening on June 27. Rua’s induction is part of  International Fight Week, honoring the best MMA athletes globally. Rua is already a part of the Hall of Fame, earning the distinction under the “Fight Wing” (Rua vs. Dan Henderson, UFC 139, 2011).

Of course, the Brazilian light heavyweight didn’t get here by just appearing in the UFC. He has numerous moments and rivalries that got him inducted. Here’s what made “Shogun” a special talent in the UFC.

Mauricio Rua’s Profile

Mauricio Rua (27-14-1) started in the PRIDE Fighting Championship, where he defeated notable fighters such as Quinton Jackson. Here, he won the 2005 Middleweight Grand Prix Championship, taking down Ricardo Arona in the finale.

After dominating PRIDE, Rua moved to the UFC, where he was the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. “Shogun” also has the second-most knockouts in the light heavyweight class (eight) and the second-most light heavyweight bouts (24). Along the way, he fought in numerous high-profile matches, including Chuck Liddell and Jon Jones.

Mauricio Rua vs. Lyoto Machida

Perhaps the most notable rivalry for Mauricio Rua was none other than Lyoto Machida. It was a battle for the most dominant Brazilian fighter, with both bouts for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.

Machida won the first bout by a controversial unanimous decision at UFC 104 in Los Angeles in 2009. The champion continued his undefeated start, bumping his record to 16-0. Meanwhile, Rua’s record took a tumble to 18-4.

However, Rua would end Machida’s undefeated run at UFC 113, defeating him in the first round by KO (punches). “Shogun” would win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship before losing it to Jon Jones in his next fight.

The rivalry set the tone for the light heavyweight division, with fighters like Jones and Alex Pereira carrying the torch after. It also catapulted Rua’s career to new heights, earning him more high-profile matches after.

Where Is Mauricio Rua Now?

Now, Mauricio Rua is getting his spot in the UFC Hall of Fame. As a pioneer of MMA, “Shogun” blazed the trail for numerous UFC light heavyweights to shine in the spotlight. Having a penchant for knocking out opponents (21 KOs in his MMA career) will earn you that distinction.

Rua lost his last three fights before retiring, with notable names such as Ihor Potieria and Paul Craig beating him. With both fighters appearing at UFC 301, it’s safe to say that “Shogun” is still making his presence felt in the UFC. He’s just doing it outside the ring, boosting today’s fighters to shine.