In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), where every inch can make a difference, reach is often hailed as a weapon of unparalleled advantage. Imagine fighting an opponent whose arms seem to stretch for miles, keeping you at bay and landing strikes before you can even react. But what if those arms weren’t so long? What if a fighter had to overcome the disadvantage of a shorter reach and still manage to conquer the Octagon?

Reach plays a crucial role in MMA. It dictates the distance of engagement, influences the types of strikes that can be thrown, and affects a fighter’s ability to control the cage. A longer reach often translates to greater striking power, the ability to keep opponents at a distance, and a distinct advantage in grappling exchanges.

However, the history of the UFC is filled with examples of fighters who have defied this conventional wisdom. These warriors, despite possessing shorter arm reaches, have utilized their skill, technique, and fight IQ to overcome this apparent disadvantage. They have proven that reach is just one piece of the puzzle, and that heart, determination, and a well-rounded skill set can triumph over physical limitations.

5. Frankie Edgar – 68 inches:

This former lightweight champion is known for his relentless pace, heart, and wrestling prowess. Despite giving up reach in many of his fights, Edgar’s ability to close the distance, outwork opponents, and mix up his striking and takedowns allowed him to achieve great success in the UFC.

Frankie Edgar, standing at 5’6″ with a 68″ reach, may not have possessed the physical attributes often associated with UFC champions, but his heart, determination, and well-rounded skill set more than made up for it. Edgar’s relentless pace, pressure fighting, and ability to mix up his striking and wrestling proved to be a formidable combination. His numerous victories over taller opponents with longer reaches, including BJ Penn, Gray Maynard, and Cub Swanson, showcased his ability to overcome the reach disadvantage through relentless pressure, strategic footwork, and a diverse offensive arsenal. Edgar’s career is a testament to the importance of fight IQ, adaptability, and the will to win, proving that reach is just one factor in the complex equation of MMA success.

4. T.J. Dillashaw – 67 inches:

A former two-time bantamweight champion, “The Viper” possesses excellent footwork and head movement, which allowed him to neutralize the reach advantage of taller opponents. His diverse striking arsenal and strong wrestling base made him a well-rounded threat in the octagon.

T.J. Dillashaw stands at 5’6″ with a 67″ reach. Despite his relatively short reach, Dillashaw has established himself as one of the most skilled and successful fighters in the division. His success can be attributed to his exceptional footwork, head movement, and unorthodox striking style. Dillashaw’s ability to quickly close the distance, change levels, and land strikes from various angles often catches opponents off guard and neutralizes their reach advantage. His diverse striking arsenal, combined with his strong wrestling base, makes him a well-rounded threat in the octagon. Dillashaw’s adaptability and ability to exploit openings in his opponents’ defenses have allowed him to consistently overcome the reach disadvantage and achieve championship success.

3. Demetrious Johnson – 66 inches:

“Mighty Mouse” is widely considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Despite his relatively short stature standing at 5’3″ with a 64″ reach, defied the odds to become one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. Despite his smaller stature compared to many of his opponents, Johnson’s lightning-fast speed, elusive footwork, and exceptional grappling skills allowed him to reign supreme in the flyweight division. He holds the record for the most consecutive title defenses in UFC history (11), a testament to his skill and adaptability in overcoming the reach disadvantage. Johnson’s ability to close the distance quickly, utilize angles, and mix up his striking and takedowns made him a nightmare for opponents of all sizes. His reign as champion solidified his place as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time.

2. Cody Garbrandt – 65.5 inches:

Cody Garbrandt, standing at 5’7″ with a 65.5″ reach, may not possess the longest reach in the bantamweight division, but his explosive power, boxing prowess, and unwavering confidence have made him a force to be reckoned with. Garbrandt’s aggressive style, lightning-fast hands, and one-punch knockout power allowed him to capture the UFC bantamweight championship in 2016. Despite his shorter reach, Garbrandt’s ability to close the distance quickly, slip punches, and counter with devastating combinations often caught opponents off guard. His fearless approach and willingness to engage in brawls made him a fan favorite and a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. While his career has seen its ups and downs, Garbrandt’s heart, determination, and explosive power continue to make him a threat in the bantamweight division.

1. Henry Cejudo – 64 inches:

Another former flyweight champion, Cejudo also had a shorter reach than many of his opponents. However, his Olympic gold medal-winning wrestling background, combined with his improving striking, made him a formidable force. Cejudo notably defeated Demetrious Johnson to claim the flyweight title before moving up to bantamweight and winning that title as well.

Henry Cejudo, standing at 5’4″ with a 64″ reach, is another example of a fighter who defied the odds to become a champion despite a shorter reach. Cejudo’s background as an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling provided him with a strong foundation in grappling, which he effectively utilized in the Octagon. However, it was his evolving striking skills and ability to adapt to opponents that truly set him apart. Cejudo’s victories over Demetrious Johnson and Dominick Cruz, both known for their elusiveness and reach, showcased his ability to overcome the reach disadvantage through timing, precision, and well-rounded skills. His achievements as a two-division champion (flyweight and bantamweight) cemented his legacy as one of the most accomplished fighters in UFC history.

These UFC champions demonstrate that a shorter reach doesn’t have to be a limiting factor in MMA. Through hard work, dedication, and strategic fight planning, they were able to overcome their physical disadvantages and achieve greatness in the sport. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring fighters who may not fit the traditional mold of a UFC champion.