Since its inception, the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has enjoyed a steady rise in global reach. This global reach, through several ways, has taken the MMA to the next level as a sports organization. The introduction of MMA to digital platforms has held the torch in taking the organization to over 165 countries, via more than 60 global broadcast partners. This means that through the media, more than 1.1 billion TV households worldwide. Advancements in technology has also had a notable influence on Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). By introducing technology, fighters can now analyze their opponent’s movements, styles and habits through video. This has led to an overall improvement in training methods and performance.

Over time, specifically in more recent years, the world of MMA, by intentional efforts, has experienced a major move towards digital platforms. This move has had its major benefits, and most noticeable of them is the presence of MMA fighters on YouTube. MMA fighters now use YouTube as a means to connect with their fans and make their journey beyond the ring available for all to see. The effect this has on the MMA organization has been nothing short of glorious, as it has not only helped fighters interact with their audience but has also opened up new avenues for branding and revenue generation.

This article takes a journey deep into the YouTube channels of some of the biggest names in MMA fighting. It highlights the unique content they create, their significance, and their personalities.

Before we can highlight the YouTube channels of some of the biggest MMA fighters, we must first identify some of the biggest MMA fighters. We define “biggest” MMA fighters in the context of championships held, fight records, pay-per-view sales, and popularity status. By the following metrics, we can select a few fighters to take a look at their YouTube channels.

• The current champions in the various weight classes (lightweight, middleweight, etc.) frequently possess successful YouTube channels. These channels display the techniques they use for their elite training, provide insight into their fight breakdowns, and serve as fight camps before major matches.
• Fan Favorites: Conor McGregor and other fighters with a reputation for entertaining crowds with their impressive fights or captivating trash talk are natural draws on YouTube. Their YouTube channels contain more intimate vlogs, challenges, and behind-the-scenes looks at their lives.
• MMA Legends: Former champions like Anderson Silva who have amassed a sizable fan base can use that support to launch lucrative YouTube channels. These channels frequently offer nostalgic fight recaps, years of experience-gleaned training advice, and fight breakdowns.

Let’s take a look at some of these channels:

The Cameroonian-French national, called ‘The Predator’ and Lineal MMA Heavyweight Champion also has a YouTube channel “@FrancisThePredatorNgannou”.

If you are looking for a fighter who knows how to win, The Predator knows how to do it well, winning 17 fights out of 20, 12 coming by knockout, 4 by submission, and 1 by decision. It is no surprise his knockout against Alistair Overeem at UFC 218 is labeled one of the greatest and most brutal knockouts of all time.

He founded the Francis Ngannou Foundation to be able to give back to the community, with the foundation running the first MMA gym in Cameroon. This shows just how big his heart is. As one of the biggest stars, he also has a channel that he uses to connect with his fans, allowing them a view into his life and training process. His most recent videos document his journey to fighting the boxing champion Anthony Joshua.

With over 300k subscribers, he includes other sportsmen in his videos with stars, such as players of Real Madrid.

Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson, has etched his name in the annals of MMA history with his exceptional striking and magnetic personality. Regarded as one of the most accomplished strikers in UFC, he holds an undefeated kickboxing record and a total of 17 wins in 25 fights in MMA.

Beyond his achievements inside the octagon, Thompson has cultivated a significant presence on YouTube, offering fans an intimate look into his life and career. Thompson’s YouTube channel serves as a digital diary of his journey as a professional fighter. Through engaging vlogs, training footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, he invites viewers to join him on his quest for greatness. Whether he’s preparing for a high-stakes fight or unwinding with family and friends, Thompson’s authenticity shines through in every video.

One of the most compelling aspects of Thompson’s channel is his commitment to educating and inspiring his audience. Through detailed breakdowns of fight techniques and strategic insights, he provides valuable lessons for aspiring fighters and fans alike. Additionally, Thompson’s positive attitude and infectious energy make his content not only informative but also entertaining.

Beyond his pursuits, Thompson often collaborates with fellow fighters and influencers, further expanding his reach and impact. His channel “@WonderboyMMA” has over 500k subscribers.

Demetrius “Mighty” Johnson’s dominance in the MMA world is unparalleled. As the former UFC Flyweight Champion and widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time, Johnson’s impact extends far beyond his accolades inside the octagon. His record 25 wins in 30 fights, as well as his record of most consecutive title defenses in UFC history (11) tying Jones is a record yet to be matched. He also holds the record of most consecutive wins in UFC Flyweight division history (13).

His YouTube channel offers fans an exclusive glimpse into the life of a pound-for-pound king. Johnson’s YouTube content is as diverse as his skill set, ranging from gaming streams to training sessions and personal vlogs. Through his channel, he shares intimate moments with his audience, providing insights into his training regimen, family life, and interests outside of fighting.

One of the most compelling aspects of his channel is his authenticity. Despite his status as a legendary fighter, he remains humble and approachable, connecting with fans on a personal level. Whether he’s interacting with viewers during live streams or sharing candid anecdotes from his career, Johnson’s genuine demeanor shines through in every video.

His channel “@Mighty15x” has over 500k subscribers.

Not many get the privilege of becoming the first British fighter to win a UFC championship, but through persistence and hard work, Michael Bisping, aka ‘The Count’ achieved it. Starting in the Light Heavyweight division in 2004 as the first British fighter to compete in a UFC main event, he has a total number of 39 fights, with 30 wins and just 9 losses.

From winning the most fights (16) in UFC Middleweight division history and winning the 2016 fighter of the year, Michael was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame on the 5^th of July, 2019 and is now a sports analyst and commentator.

Outside of the ring, Michael shows just how comfortable he is in front of the camera, featuring on the UFC’s The Ultimate Fighter 3 reality television series, starring in films such as XXX: Return of Xander Cage in 2017 and the British sports drama film My Name is Lenny. His experience in front of the camera has without a doubt made his YouTube channel a success offering his experienced view on fights and issues around MMA.

His channel “@bisping” 600k subscribers, fans have shown their loyalty to the Hall of Famer.

Sean O’Malley, also known as “Suga” has captivated MMA fans with his flashy fighting style and larger-than-life personality. With 18 wins in 20 fights, ranking as #6 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings.

As one of the sport’s rising stars, O’Malley has embraced YouTube as a platform to connect with fans and share his journey to the top. O’Malley’s YouTube channel, aptly titled “The Sugar Show,” offers viewers a front-row seat to his life inside and outside the octagon. From training montages to behind-the-scenes footage from fight camps, he provides an inside look into the highs and lows of professional fighting.

One of the hallmarks of O’Malley’s channel is its entertainment value. With his signature swagger and irreverent humor, he keeps viewers engaged and entertained with each upload. Whether he’s showcasing his latest knockout or engaging in playful banter with fellow fighters, O’Malley’s charisma shines through in every video. In addition to entertaining his audience, O’Malley uses his platform to inspire and motivate others.

Sean O’Malley’s YouTube channel “@SugaSeanUFC” is a reflection of his dynamic personality and unwavering dedication to his craft, and over 800k subscribers can attest to that.

Not many people last long in the world of fighting and stay relevant while at it, but it is no problem for the American who competed in the Welterweight and Lightweight division, holding the record for the fastest knockout in UFC history- Jorge ‘Gamebred’ Masvidal. He holds a total record of 52 fights, recording 35 wins, and 17 losses.

Born and raised in Miami, Jorge started his MMA journey in 2003 and recorded his first win by technical knockout in April 30. His journey to the top came as a result of his consistency, and his fans are more than grateful and entertained by his videos showing his fighting in its purest from.

His YouTube channel called “@JorgeMasvidalNetwork” where he constantly puts out videos, such as a series of “Gamebred Boxing”, which documents the journey of two fighters leading up to the ring, and “Fulltime Fighter Episode”.

With over 800k subscribers, he also lets his fans have a view of his personality through his videos.

The YouTube channel “@freestylebender” belongs to the star Israel Adesanya.

The two-time UFC Middleweight Champion, with a record of 24 wins. Israel Adesanya’s analytical approach to fighting in the ring, and a hell of a personality outside of it makes his YouTube channel worth it. The stylebender is tied with Anderson Silva for the most knockdowns in UFC Middleweight division history, maintaining his record of five successful title defenses in his first reign, as well as being the first two-time UFC Middleweight champion.

He combines posting these and many more on his YouTube channel, thereby creating informative content, fight breakdowns, Q&A sessions, and lifestyle vlogs, all with engaging presentations for his fans.

It is no surprise his channel has over 1 million subscribers who are interested in Israel Adesanya’s personal life beyond the ring.

The retired fighter with an undefeated record of 29 wins and no losses has a YouTube channel named “@KhabibTheEagle”.

The Eagle is well known for being the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion ever, holding the title from April 2018 to March 2021. He was ranked #1 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings at the time of his retirement.

His legendary status was cemented when he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame on June 30, 2022, after which he delved fully into being a promoter, establishing the Eagles MMA and promoting the Eagle Fighting Championship. He became a coach and cornerman, before his full retirement from UFC in January 2023.

He uses his channel to post more UFC content while giving the latest news, and behind-the-scenes from the life of “The Eagle”.

With over 1 million subscribers, it is quite obvious that his fans are fully invested in what is going on in the life of The Eagle beyond the ring.

Perhaps there is one who is an even greater trash talker than the famous Conor ‘Notorious’ McGregor, and it is none other than the American submission grappling promoter and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) analyst, Chael Sonnen.

He started competing in 1997, becoming a top contender in the Light Heavyweight and Middleweight divisions, taking on a total number of 49 fights and winning 31 of them.

Perhaps, one can truly not have everything, because despite Sonnen taking the MMA world by storm, he could never lay hands on a major MMA world championship. His ability to trash talk and garner attention undoubtedly eased his transition into promoting, working as an analyst in 2014, and going on to found his promotion service “Submission Underground (SUG)”.

His over 1 million subscribers on his YouTube channel “ChaelSonnenOfficial” are a testament to his ability to involve people in whatever business he gets his hands on

Arguably the biggest star of the UFC brand, Conor ‘Notorious’ McGregor influence in MMA fighting is unarguable. Becoming the first fighter to hold UFC championships in two weight classes at the same time. Starting professionally in 2008, Conor has a total of 28 MMA fights, recording a class number of 22 wins; winning 19 of them by knockout.

His signature style of engaging in trash talk against his opponents which earned him the nickname ‘Notorious’, as well as his striking personality has formed the core of his two YouTube channels “@ConorMcGregor” and “@TheMacLife”.

Conor McGregor fans have an intimate look into the life of the biggest pay-per-view draw in MMA history. His life outside of the ring proves to many that beyond the ring, MMA fighters are not just characters in a ring.

Although more active on TheMacLife channel, he boasts over 1 million subscribers, with videos that show different sides to his life.