Most Decision Wins in UFC History: The Endurance Legends
When you think of the UFC, the first things that pop into your head are usually knockouts and submissions. However, there’s another skill that often doesn’t get enough attention, which is winning by decision. Going the distance really shows who has the best cardio, sharp technique, and the fight IQ to outlast tough opponents. Currently, the king of decision wins is Brad Tavares, a middleweight veteran recognized for his durability and smart striking. In 2025, Tavares broke the record with his 14th decision victory, surpassing Neil Magny and demonstrating that grinding out wins can be just as legendary as finishing fights.
Image Source: ufc.com(Photo Credit: Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC)
Top 5 Most Decision Wins in UFC History
Here are the top 5 fighters with the most decision wins in UFC history, where endurance and strategy shaped lasting legacies.
| Rank | Fighter | Decision Wins | Total UFC Fights |
| 1 | Brad Tavares | 14 | 28 |
| 2 | Neil Magny | 14 | 36 |
| 3 | Andrei Arlovski | 12 | 40 |
| 4 | Georges St-Pierre | 12 | 22 |
| 5 | Diego Sanchez | 12 | 32 |
Brad Tavares – 14 Decision Wins
Weight Class: Middleweight
Brad Tavares has yet to compete for a UFC title, but he has established one of the most consistent careers in middleweight history. With 14 wins by decision, he is tied for the highest number in UFC history. Tavares is recognized for his precise striking, solid takedown defense, and his knack for remaining composed while outworking his opponents throughout three rounds. He has defeated notable fighters such as Chris Weidman, Antônio Carlos Júnior, and Omari Akhmedov by decision, demonstrating just how challenging he is to face.
Neil Magny – 14 Decision Wins
Weight Class: Welterweight
Neil Magny shares the record with Brad Tavares for the most decision wins in UFC history, both having 14. Magny has crafted his career by effectively utilizing his 80-inch reach, consistent jabs, and solid clinch techniques. While he may not always secure finishes, his stamina and fast pace allow him to outlast his opponents throughout three rounds. Neil Magny has achieved 30 wins in the UFC, which is the highest number in welterweight history. More than half of these victories have come by decision, showcasing his reliability and toughness.
Andrei Arlovski – 12 Decision Wins
Weight Class: Heavyweight
Andrei Arlovski demonstrates that heavyweights don’t always rely on knockouts to secure victories. After experiencing a tough losing streak from 2009 to 2011, he adapted his approach to emphasize defense and fight intelligence rather than engaging in chaotic brawls. Out of his 23 UFC victories, 10 have been achieved by decision, which is uncommon for a heavyweight. Additionally, he became the first heavyweight to achieve 20 UFC wins in a single division. This demonstrate how strategic fighting has allowed him to remain competitive at the highest level for more than twenty years.
Georges St‑Pierre (GSP) – 12 Decision Wins
Weight Class: Welterweight/Middleweight
Georges St-Pierre, often regarded as the best MMA fighter of all time, established his legacy through intelligent and strategic fighting. Although he possessed the ability to finish fights, GSP typically opted for control and tactics, resulting in 12 decision victories out of his 19 wins in the UFC. Most of these victories occurred during his championship reign, where he effectively neutralized top challengers like Jon Fitch, Jake Shields, and Nick Diaz with his superior wrestling and defensive skills. Some fans labeled his approach as ‘safe,’ but it truly highlighted his fight intelligence and discipline.
Diego Sanchez – 12 Decision Wins
Weight Class: Middleweight/Welterweight/Lightweight
Diego Sanchez left a significant impact in the UFC through his resilience and relentless pressure, rather than flawless technique. Out of his 19 victories in the UFC, 12 were by decision, highlighting how frequently he pulled his opponents into tough battles. Sanchez excelled in disorder, maintaining a frantic pace and never backing down, regardless of the situation. Some of his most unforgettable decision victories were against fighters such as Clay Guida in their iconic three-round clash, Takanori Gomi, and Nick Diaz early on in his career.
