Light-Heavyweight 4-19-09

Rank

Fighter

Comments

1.

Rashad Evans

The UFC still doesn't have an unassailable ruler at 205 pounds, but after what Sugar did to Chuck Liddell and Forrest Griffin, you can't really argue that he doesn't deserve to be on top for now. And between his powerful hands and wrestling ability, he may have the answer to the Lyoto Machida riddle that has baffled everyone else.

2.

Quinton Jackson

 

3.

Lyoto Machida

14-0, and he's only lost one round in his entire career. Call him a stand-'n'-bland fighter if you must, but you can't argue with success. Machida's flawless technique allows him to strike when he knows he'll make contact, while avoiding nearly all of his opponents' strikes and takedowns. Chase him around the cage and you'll find yourself on the embarrassing end of a karate foot-sweep. Let your guard down for even a moment and you're toast.

4.

Forrest Griffin

 

5.

Mauricio Rua

Knocking out Chuck Liddell might not be the greatest accomplishment these days, but the win must have done wonders for Shogun’s confidence. If Rua’s past struggles were only due to conditioning and injuries, then a return to the top of the light-heavyweight pack isn’t out of the realm of possibility.

6.

Renato Sobral

Babalu is the definition of "crafty veteran." And he's experiencing another career peak lately, winning Strikeforce's light-heavyweight championship and scoring his second win in Affliction; he's only lost twice in the last six years. He edges out Antonio Rogerio Nogueira for being a little more active over the last few years, and for holding wins over the last two guys who beat Lil' Nog (Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou and Mauricio Rua).

7.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira

 

8.

Wanderlei Silva

It's not like any of the four guys Wandy lost to in his last five fights were scrubs, but it makes you wonder if his top-competitor days are finally over. Can a transition to middleweight lead to a career rebirth, or is "World's Scariest Gatekeeper" the future that awaits him?

9.

Thiago Silva

 

10.

Keith Jardine

The Dean of Mean drifts back into the top ten with Chuck’s exit. If only Luis Cane had smashed Steve Cantwell in the first round of their fight, maybe Banha would be sitting here right now...

See previous rankings (published March 8, 2009)