The UFC celebrated its rich history and evolution on Thursday night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as the Hall of Fame Class of 2025 was officially inducted. The ceremony paid tribute to legendary fighters, unforgettable moments, and key contributors who helped shape the sport into a global phenomenon.
Modern Wing: Nunes and Lawler Cement Their Legacy
Two of the sport’s most iconic warriors—Amanda Nunes and Robbie Lawler—took center stage in the Modern Wing.
Nunes, the former two-division champion known as “The Lioness,” redefined women’s MMA with her dominant reigns in both the bantamweight and featherweight divisions. Her resume includes wins over the likes of Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, and Valentina Shevchenko, earning her status as arguably the greatest female fighter in UFC history.
Robbie Lawler, a former welterweight champion, was celebrated for his relentless fighting style and unforgettable wars inside the Octagon. From his blood-and-guts battle with Rory MacDonald to his knockout finishes, Lawler was a fan favorite whose performances defined grit and heart in the modern UFC era.
Pioneer Wing: Vitor Belfort and Mark Kerr Honored
The Pioneer Wing saluted two trailblazers—Vitor Belfort and Mark Kerr.
Belfort, known as “The Phenom,” debuted in 1997 and quickly became a sensation with his explosive power and knockout artistry. A former UFC light heavyweight champion, Belfort’s longevity and impact stretched across multiple generations of fighters.
Kerr, a dominant force in the late 1990s and early 2000s, brought wrestling dominance into the early days of MMA. Known for his brute strength and submission skills, Kerr was nearly unbeatable in his prime and remains a symbol of the sport’s gritty beginnings.
Fight Wing: Adesanya vs. Gastelum – A Classic for the Ages
One of the most thrilling title bouts in UFC history finally earned its place in the Fight Wing.
The 2019 interim middleweight title clash between Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 236 is still hailed as a masterclass in heart, resilience, and striking brilliance. The five-round war showcased both fighters pushing their limits, but it also marked a turning point in Adesanya’s journey to becoming a UFC superstar.
Contributor Wing: Craig Piligian Recognized for ‘The Ultimate Fighter’
Behind the scenes, Craig Piligian, co-creator of The Ultimate Fighter, was honored in the Contributor Wing.
The reality series is widely credited with saving the UFC in the mid-2000s, introducing a new generation of fans and fighters to the sport. Piligian’s vision helped turn the UFC into a mainstream entertainment powerhouse.
Forrest Griffin Community Award: Charles Oliveira Gives Back
Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira received the Forrest Griffin Community Award, recognizing his inspiring work in Brazil.
Through charitable initiatives and outreach to underprivileged youth, Oliveira has used his platform to bring hope and opportunity to countless lives—proving that a champion’s heart can shine just as brightly outside the cage.
UFC Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Recap:
- Modern Wing: Amanda Nunes, Robbie Lawler
- Pioneer Wing: Vitor Belfort, Mark Kerr
- Fight Wing: Israel Adesanya vs. Kelvin Gastelum (UFC 236)
- Contributor Wing: Craig Piligian
- Forrest Griffin Community Award: Charles Oliveira
This year’s class perfectly captures the spirit of the UFC—honoring legends of the past, icons of today, and the unsung heroes who helped build the sport’s global legacy.
