Introduction

The UFC championship belt is one of the most recognizable symbols in combat sports. It represents the pinnacle of achievement in mixed martial arts (MMA). But have you ever wondered how the UFC belt has changed over time? From its early days to the modern era, the design, materials, and prestige of the belt have evolved. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating history of the UFC belt, its transformations, and what makes it so special today.

The Early Days: The First UFC Belt

When the UFC was founded in 1993, there was no traditional championship belt. Instead, winners received a gold medal and a trophy. The first official UFC belt was introduced in 1997 at UFC 12, where Mark Coleman became the first heavyweight champion to receive it.

This early version of the belt was simple—a gold-plated design with a red centerpiece and the UFC logo. Unlike today’s belts, it had a classic wrestling-style look, reflecting the sport’s roots.

The Pride FC Influence and the Big Gold Belt

In the early 2000s, UFC’s rival promotion, Pride FC, had a famous "Big Gold Belt" design. When the UFC bought Pride in 2007, they took inspiration from its luxurious look.

The UFC introduced a new belt design in 2007, featuring:

  • A larger, more detailed gold plate

  • A black leather strap

  • Red and silver accents

  • The UFC logo prominently displayed

This version became iconic, worn by legends like Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Chuck Liddell.

The Customizable Era: Champion-Specific Side Plates

In 2015, the UFC made a major change. Instead of a standard belt for all champions, they introduced custom side plates for each titleholder.

Key features of the new belt included:

  • A sleeker, more modern design

  • Removable side plates with the champion’s name and flag

  • Higher-quality materials for a premium look

This update made the belt more personal, allowing fighters to leave their mark on UFC history.

The Current UFC Belt: A Symbol of Excellence

Today’s UFC belt is the most advanced yet. It features:

  • 3D-printed gold plating for durability

  • Laser-engraved details for precision

  • Interchangeable side plates for each champion

Every time a new champion is crowned, they receive a fresh belt with their name engraved, making it a true symbol of their hard work.

Special Belts and Unique Designs

The UFC has also introduced special belts for unique achievements:

  • The "BMF" Belt – Awarded to Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz for their fan-favorite fight at UFC 244.

  • Interim Belts – Given when a champion is inactive, with the same design but a different strap color.

These additions keep the UFC belt legacy exciting for fans and fighters alike.

Why the UFC Belt Matters

Winning a UFC belt is the ultimate goal for any MMA fighter. It represents:

  • Skill – Only the best in the world become champions.

  • Legacy – Champions are remembered forever in UFC history.

  • Prestige – Holding the belt means being the face of the sport.

For fans, the belt symbolizes the heart and dedication of their favorite fighters.

Conclusion

The UFC belt has come a long way since its early days. From a simple gold-plated design to the high-tech, personalized championship belts of today, it remains the most coveted prize in MMA. Each change reflects the growth of the sport and the fighters who make it great.

If you’re a UFC fan, owning a replica belt is a great way to show your passion for MMA. Check out our store for officially licensed UFC merchandise and bring home a piece of combat sports history.