Top 10 Most Memorable Returns in UFC History: Comebacks That Shocked the MMA World

By Ali Hammad June 04, 2025 09:41

The UFC has witnessed countless thrilling moments, but few are as captivating as the dramatic comebacks that defy the odds and shock the MMA world. These returns showcase not only physical resilience but also mental toughness, turning near-defeats into legendary victories. Here are the top 10 most memorable returns in UFC history, fights that remain etched in fans’ memories for their sheer drama and heart.

1. Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen – UFC 117 (2010)

Widely regarded as the greatest comeback in UFC history, Anderson Silva was dominated by Chael Sonnen for nearly five rounds, spending most of the fight trapped on his back. With just minutes remaining, Silva pulled off a stunning triangle armbar submission, forcing Sonnen to tap out and retaining his middleweight title. Silva later reflected, “I was calm, I knew my moment would come,” highlighting his unshakeable confidence despite the dire situation.

2. Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg II – UFC 52 (2005)

In a fight where Hughes was rocked by a low blow and nearly finished by Trigg’s choke, the defending welterweight champion showed incredible grit. Hughes escaped the choke, slammed Trigg to the mat, and secured a rear-naked choke for the win. This comeback is often cited as a textbook example of resilience under pressure, with UFC announcer Joe Rogan calling it “one of the greatest sequences in UFC history.”

3. Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin – UFC 116 (2010)

Lesnar was overwhelmed in the first round by Carwin’s power, landing only three strikes to Carwin’s 40. Facing near defeat, Lesnar weathered the storm and, early in the second round, took Carwin down and forced a submission via rear-naked choke. Lesnar’s post-fight declaration, “I’m still the toughest S.O.B. around,” captured the spirit of this epic turnaround.

4. Yair Rodriguez vs. Chan Sung Jung – UFC Fight Night (2018)

With just one second left in a fight he was losing on the judges’ scorecards, Rodriguez landed a last-second upward elbow knockout on “The Korean Zombie.” The sudden finish stunned the audience and commentators alike, with many exclaiming, “What just happened?” This knockout remains one of the most dramatic comebacks in UFC’s lighter weight classes.

5. Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard I – UFC 125 (2011)

After a punishing first round where Edgar was knocked down three times, he rallied back to nearly finish Maynard in the later rounds. The fight ended in a rare split draw, but Edgar’s comeback from near-defeat showcased his legendary heart and earned widespread respect from fans and analysts.

6. Cheick Kongo vs. Pat Barry – UFC on Versus (2011)

Barry nearly finished Kongo early with powerful strikes, but Kongo survived and landed a counter-punch knockout. This heavyweight clash swung wildly, demonstrating how momentum can shift instantly in MMA.

7. Georges St-Pierre vs. Michael Bisping – UFC 199 (2016)

Returning from a four-year hiatus, GSP was visibly slowed and cut badly but secured a takedown late in the third round and forced Bisping to tap via rear-naked choke. This victory cemented GSP’s legacy and proved his ability to overcome adversity even after a long layoff.

8. Jack Hermansson vs. Thiago Santos – UFC Fight Night (2023)

Hermansson fought through a dislocated rib and near submission to mount a comeback in the third round, finishing Santos with ground-and-pound. His resilience under extreme pain was hailed as “superhuman” by commentators.

9. Roger Huerta vs. Clay Guida – UFC Fight Night (2007)

Huerta, a rising star, was dominated early by Guida’s relentless pace but rallied to finish the fight, showing the heart and determination that would define his career.

10. Ryan Bader vs. Glover Teixeira – UFC on Fox (2013)

Bader was on the brink of defeat but reversed the tide with a powerful knockout, marking a pivotal moment in his career and a memorable comeback in the light heavyweight division.

These comebacks are more than just fights; they are testaments to the indomitable spirit of UFC fighters. As Dana White often emphasizes, “It’s not over until it’s over,” and these moments prove that in the octagon, resilience can turn the tide in an instant. Whether through technical mastery or sheer willpower, these fighters shocked the MMA world and inspired millions with their unforgettable returns.