Lyoto Machida

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Lyoto Machida's career is defined by technical excellence and historic upsets. He is the only fighter to defeat Rashad Evans by knockout in a title fight and holds the record for the fastest knockout in a UFC title fight against Vitor Belfort. His ability to blend traditional Shotokan karate with modern MMA created a unique style that influenced a generation of fighters. His legacy is one of precision, discipline, and the successful adaptation of ancient martial arts to the modern octagon.

AwardsLyoto Machida's accolades are centered on his achievements in the octagon. He is a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and has been awarded Performance of the Night and Submission of the Night bonuses multiple times. His victory over Vitor Belfort is particularly celebrated for its speed and impact. While not yet inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, his legacy is frequently cited in discussions of the sport's greatest technicians.

Honours & Distinctions

Brazilian National Karate Champion

World Karate Federation·2005

Multiple-time national champion in Shotokan karate.

International Medalist

World Karate Federation·2006

Medalist in international karate tournaments.

Rankings & Lists

#15

Top 100 Greatest MMA Fighters of All Time

ESPN·2020

Best Strikers in UFC History

MMA Fighting·2019

Magazine Covers

Fighters Only Magazine

June 2009

The Dragon Rises

Black Belt Magazine

August 2012

Karate in the Octagon

Records & Feats

Fastest Knockout in UFC Title Fight History

Record·2012

Defeated Vitor Belfort in 33 seconds at UFC 152.

Greatest Upset in UFC Light Heavyweight History

Historic First·2009

Defeated Rashad Evans as a 4-to-1 underdog to win the title.