The UFC welterweight division continues to thrive in 2025, with emerging talents like Jack Della Maddalena shaking up the competition. Meanwhile, Kamaru Usman, recognized as one of the greatest UFC welterweight champions, reaffirmed his place among the all-time elite after a dominant victory over Joaquin Buckley at UFC Atlanta, signaling his ongoing relevance in the 170-pound category.

Current State of the Welterweight Division

The UFC welterweight weight class has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1998. The division remains vibrant, as younger fighters rise to prominence, exemplified by Jack Della Maddalena, who recently ended Belal Muhammad’s 11-fight unbeaten streak at UFC 315. At 38 years old, Usman demonstrated why he remains a key figure in the division by decisively defeating another contender, thus positioning himself once more as a top contender for the welterweight title.

Ranking the Best Welterweight Champions in UFC History

Kamaru Usman is part of an elite group of 13 undisputed UFC welterweight champions and is frequently compared to Georges St-Pierre, who many consider the greatest of all time (GOAT) at 170 pounds. The prestigious list of top welterweights includes fighters who have contributed significantly to the division’s history, as highlighted by Bloody Elbow’s ranking of the top five welterweights ever.

Robbie Lawler’s Impactful Championship Tenure

Robbie Lawler’s title reign is remembered for thrilling bouts, particularly his 2015 fights against Rory MacDonald and his 2016 battles versus interim champion Carlos Condit. Lawler claimed the welterweight belt in 2014 by defeating Johny Hendricks, a former champion known for delivering Georges St-Pierre his final retirement fight. Lawler’s accomplishments include $300,000 in performance bonuses and concluding his UFC career in 2023 with 15 wins inside the Octagon.

Underrated Champion: Tyron Woodley’s Title Defenses

Tyron Woodley is often cited as one of the most underrated UFC welterweight champions. Preceding Usman, Woodley successfully defended his belt four times against top fighters including Stephen Thompson, Demian Maia, and Darren Till. Notably, Woodley knocked out Robbie Lawler in under three minutes at UFC 201, marking a signature victory during his championship reign that stemmed from dominant performances against contenders like Jay Hieron, Josh Koscheck, and Carlos Condit.

Matt Hughes: The Division’s Early Legend

Prior to Georges St-Pierre’s era, Matt Hughes dominated the welterweight division. He first won the title in 2001 using a slam knockout against Carlos Newton at UFC 34, defending it five times before BJ Penn took the belt from him in 2004. Hughes was also the first to defeat St-Pierre, submitting him with an armbar at UFC 50. Throughout his second title reign, Hughes collected victories over fighters such as Frank Trigg, Joe Riggs, Royce Gracie, and BJ Penn. Despite losing his title in 2006, Hughes continued to win notable bouts against Chris Lytle, Matt Serra, and Renzo Gracie.

Kamaru Usman’s Remarkable Welterweight Reign

Kamaru Usman is widely regarded as the second-greatest welterweight fighter in UFC history. His record reflects a historic 15-fight win streak, the longest in the division, and he shares the second-highest number of title defenses at five with Matt Hughes. Usman made history by dominating Tyron Woodley for the championship in 2019, setting a record for most control time in a title fight at 18 minutes and 5 seconds. His reign included victories over top contenders such as Leon Edwards, Demian Maia, Rafael Dos Anjos, Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, Gilbert Burns, and most recently Joaquin Buckley.

Georges St-Pierre’s Unmatched Legacy

Georges St-Pierre (GSP) is often hailed as one of the greatest MMA fighters ever, particularly at welterweight. After an early title loss to Matt Hughes in 2004, St-Pierre bounced back with a series of wins over the likes of BJ Penn, Sean Sherk, and Frank Trigg to earn a rematch and claim the championship in 2006. Despite an upset defeat to Matt Serra in 2007, GSP remained undefeated for the rest of his welterweight career, winning 12 consecutive fights and defending his title nine times. His reign included victories against Matt Hughes, BJ Penn, Carlos Condit, Nick Diaz, and Johny Hendricks before retiring with the championship belt in 2013.

Usman’s Challenge to GSP’s Status and Future Outlook

Kamaru Usman’s recent performances have reignited debates about the greatest UFC welterweight champion of all time. With a long winning streak, multiple title defenses, and wins over top-tier fighters, Usman’s legacy continues to grow alongside that of Georges St-Pierre. As younger contenders like Jack Della Maddalena rise, the welterweight division promises intense competition in the years ahead. Usman’s ongoing quest to reclaim and defend the title will play a significant role in shaping the division’s future hierarchy and determining whether he can ultimately surpass GSP’s legendary record.