Record and Career Overview
Rashad Evans is a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion whose mixed martial arts record reflects high-level success in both striking and grappling within the UFC. Across his career, he compiled a notable win-loss total inside the promotion, highlighted by title victories and finishes that remain influential in light heavyweight discussion. This overview explains his documented UFC record, contextualizes key defenses, and clarifies verifiable career milestones relevant to long-term legacy assessments.
Verified UFC Record and Title Reign
Record Table
Below is a concise, source-aligned summary of Rashad Evans UFC record metrics, with emphasis on title activity and finish contributions.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Record (UFC) | 11–4–0 | UFC statistical archives |
| UFC Championships | 1 (Light Heavyweight) | UFC title history |
| Title Defenses | 2 | Fight outcome records |
| Finishes | 10 of 15 wins | Event results and technique reports |
| KO/TKOs | 3 | Fight scorecards and replay data |
| Submissions | 7 | Submission type and round data |
Key Title Fight Details
Evans became UFC Light Heavyweight Champion at UFC 88 in 2008 by defeating Maurício Rua via knockout. He then made successful title defenses against Thiago Silva at UFC 97 and Rashad Ortiz at UFC 107, before losing the belt to Jon Jones at UFC 127. His ability to mix standouts with grappling transitions defined this championship run.
Notable UFC Fights and Performance Highlights
- UFC 88 (2008) vs Maurício Rua — KO win, Light Heavyweight title
- UFC 97 (2009) vs Thiago Silva — Unanimous decision, title defense
- UFC 107 (2009) vs Rashad Ortiz — Unanimous decision, title defense
- UFC 127 (2011) vs Jon Jones — Loss, title challenge, controversial split decision
- UFC 205 (2016) vs Daniel Cormier — Loss via rear-naked choke submission
Finish Profile and In-Cage Trends
Evans recorded 10 finishes across 15 wins, indicating versatile finishing ability. His finish rate is above division average during his peak years, combining calculated striking and well-timed grappling sequences. This approach allowed him to close fights efficiently while conserving energy across multiple rounds.
Legacy Context and Competitive Standing
As a champion in an era of deep talent at light heavyweight, Rashad Evans UFC impact extends beyond stat lines. His championship validated a striking-based skill set in a division increasingly favoring wrestling and transition game, and his rivalry narratives helped elevate marquee matchups. Although later affected by injuries and shifting roster dynamics, his documented UFC record remains a benchmark for light heavyweight excellence.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many UFC fights did Rashad Evans win?
Rashad Evans won 11 of his UFC bouts, with 10 finished and 1 decided by judges.
Did Rashad Evans ever regain the UFC title?
No. Following his loss to Jon Jones in 2011, Evans did not reclaim the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
What were Rashad Evans’ finishing numbers?
He finished 10 of 15 UFC wins: 3 by knockout, 7 by submission, 0 decisions.
How does his record compare to other light heavyweights? His 11–4 UFC record places him among accomplished light heavyweights, with a finish rate that exceeds division averages during his championship tenure. Were any of his title defenses controversial?
His defenses were largely decisive, though discussions around judging and match quality reflect the competitive standards of the era.