Most Submission Attempts in UFC History

In the UFC, knockouts definitely catch the eye but submissions really demonstrate real skill. A rear-naked choke or an armbar shows that a fighter can outsmart and control their opponent rather than just depending on strength. Submissions showcase strategy and technical expertise making them one of the most authentic displays of martial arts in the Octagon. Jim Miller holds the record for the most submission attempts in UFC history with 51 tries across his long career.

Top 5 Most Submission Attempts in UFC History

Here are the top 5 fighters with the most submission attempts in UFC history, highlighting the fighters who never stopped chasing submissions with nonstop grappling action.

Jim Miller – 51 Submission Attempts

Weight Class: Lightweight

Jim Miller is a real UFC veteran and the champion of submission attempts. He has attempted to finish fights by submission 45 times which is the highest in UFC history. In 2014, he matched Chris Lytle’s recor, but he has since surpassed it and continues to increase that number. Miller’s relentless grappling style and determination have established him as one of the most respected lightweight fighters of all time.

Charles Oliveira – 47 Submission Attempts

Weight Class: Featherweight, Lightweight, Welterweight

Charles Oliveira famously known as “Do Bronx” holds the title of the UFC’s submission king. He has successfully submitted his opponents 17 times and has made 47 attempts at submissions. In 2018, he shattered Royce Gracie’s previous submission record and has continued to build on it since then. Oliveira’s inventive combination of chokes and joint locks makes him one of the most intimidating fighters.

Chris Lytle – 31 Submission Attempts

Weight Class: Welterweight

Chris Lytle was a gritty welterweight who constantly sought finishes. When he retired in 2011, he had the UFC record for the highest number of submission attempts totaling 31 attempts in only 20 fights. Lytle displayed his creativity with techniques like the mounted triangle-armbar which he used to submit Matt Brown and Jason Gilliam. His relentless submission hunt made him one of the most thrilling fighters of his era.

Joe Lauzon – 29 Submission Attempts

Weight Class: Lightweight

Joe Lauzon won over fans with his exciting, action-filled fights and his relentless pursuit of submissions. Throughout 23 UFC matches, he made 29 attempts at submissions and his bold grappling style led to 17 career submission victories which included six awards for “Submission of the Night”. Lauzon’s daring approach has made him one of the most thrilling grapplers in history.

Demian Maia – 27 Submission Attempts

Weight Class: Middleweight , Welterweight

Demian Maia is recognized as one of the top pure jiu-jitsu fighters in MMA. He achieved 14 victories by submission in the UFC and attempted 27 submissions. Between 2008 and 2009, Maia accomplished five consecutive submission wins which is the longest streak in modern UFC history and he was the first fighter to earn three “Submission of the Night” bonuses in succession.