The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is widely regarded as the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization in the world. With its traditional championship structure based on divisions, rankings, and long winning streaks, the UFC has established a reputation for crowning deserving champions. However, every once in a while, the sport creates something different, something that captures the attention and imagination of MMA fans all over the world. The BMF belt is exactly that kind of outlier.
What is the BMF Belt?
The BMF belt, or the Baddest Motherf*cker belt, was first introduced in November 2019 for the highly anticipated fight between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz at UFC 244. The concept of a BMF belt was initially suggested by Masvidal, who wanted to create a special title for himself and Diaz, two of the biggest and toughest names in the UFC’s welterweight division. The idea quickly gained popularity, and the UFC decided to make it a reality.
Unlike traditional UFC belts, the BMF belt is not tied to one weight class or division. It is a one-off title that can be contested by any fighter, regardless of their weight. The only requirement is that the fighter must possess the qualities of being a true “baddest motherf*cker” in the UFC. The belt is also not tied to any rankings, as it is meant to be a fun and unique addition to the sport, rather than a serious championship.
The History of the BMF Belt
The BMF belt may be a recent addition to the UFC, but the concept of determining the “baddest motherf*cker” in the sport has been around for a long time. In fact, the phrase was popularized by former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, who famously declared himself the “baddest motherf*cker in the game” after his victory over Chuck Liddell in 2007.
However, it was the fight between Masvidal and Diaz that truly brought the concept to life. The two fighters, both known for their fearless and no-nonsense attitude, embodied the spirit of the BMF belt. The build-up to the fight was intense, with both fighters taunting each other and engaging in heated trash talk. The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, where the fight took place, was electric, with celebrities and fans alike eagerly anticipating the showdown between two of the toughest men in the UFC.
In the end, it was Masvidal who emerged as the first BMF champion, defeating Diaz via TKO in the third round. The belt and the fight itself were a huge success, with the BMF title becoming a coveted honor among UFC fighters.
BMF Champions in UFC History
As of now, there have been two BMF champions in UFC history. The first was Jorge Masvidal, who won the inaugural BMF belt at UFC 244. Masvidal, also known as “Gamebred,” is a Cuban-American fighter with a record of 35 wins and 15 losses. He is known for his striking prowess and has been a fan favorite since his debut in the UFC in 2013.
The second BMF champion is none other than the current UFC welterweight champion, Kamaru Usman. Usman won the BMF belt in April 2021, defeating Masvidal in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 261. With a record of 19 wins and one loss, Usman is widely considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC. He is known for his dominant wrestling and powerful striking, making him a formidable opponent for anyone in the UFC.
The Meaning of the BMF Belt
While the BMF belt may not hold the same weight as traditional UFC belts, it holds a special meaning for the fighters who have won it. It represents toughness, grit, and the willingness to face any challenge, regardless of weight class or rankings. It also signifies the respect and admiration of the fans, who see the BMF champion as the ultimate badass in the UFC.
The BMF belt has also become a symbol of unity among fighters. In a sport where rivalries and animosity often take center stage, the BMF belt brings fighters together, regardless of their backgrounds or divisions. It is a reminder that at the end of the day, they are all part of the same community and share a love for the sport of MMA
