Undisputed World Champion of MMA

[Cross_Trainer]

If a fighter won belts in the same/very similar weight class in both the UFC and Pride under both of their rules (Pride's in Japan, UFC's in America), would they be considered for all intents and purposes the unified world champion, since they won in the 2 major organizations under both rulesets? Or are the other organizations out there important enough that it would still be disputed?

Also:

1. What do you think that would do for MMA in general? I would suspect that it would improve its popularity, especially if the winner is charismatic and a heavyweight. People seem to enjoy a sport more when there's a top person to identify it with.

2. Is it possible and/or likely in the near future? It seems that Pride's fighters have a lot more money and little to gain by going into the financially poorer UFC. I'm also not sure how much the two organizations think of each others' legitimacy.

3. Is there anyone who could pull it off at any weight class, and keep both titles for a long period of time (They'd have to fight more often than normal, though...)

4. Any other thoughts on this that I haven't addressed?

Thank you for your time.

[TJS]

yes If someone held a belt in UFC and pride the would proabably be ranked #1 by most accounts.

[SubGrappler]

Would be nice to hold a belt in both, but its not necessary.

Fedor Emilianenko is the current undisputed top fighter in the world right now, and hes only got the Pride belt.

[ItalianMuayThai]

Fedor is amazing to say the least. #1 MMA wise, but i wouldnt say hes the absolute best. Still so many different fighting leagues (ie. k-1, k-1 max, superleague, and so on)

[SubGrappler]

I would

K-1 is not a mixed martial arts competition- its kickboxing, and they have contributed to the Pride tournaments.

Other shows such as Pancrase, King of the Cage, RINGS and the like have also contributed to the Pride shows. Pride/UFC are the pinnacle of mixed martial arts tournaments and pick the best fighters they can find, usually from tournaments you've just mentioned.

[ItalianMuayThai]

i know what k-1 is, i was giving examples of other fighting leagues. Thiers so many more fighters in the world. I dont think i could say hes the best in the world, maybe in pride, and mma leagues, but not in the world

[SubGrappler]

Thats like saying that Wayne Gretzky is the best hockey player in the NHL, but not the world.

[BJJ is 1]

what about Wanderlei Silva vs. Lidell for a unified Middle weight title, however I don't think Lidell would have a chance

[SubGrappler]

I agree- Silva fought a K-1 Grand Prix Champion who outweighed him by about 80 lbs in Mark Hunt.

If Hunt couldnt knock him out during their fight, I seriously doubt that Chuck Liddel could, and that is in no way meant as a criticism of Liddels striking skills.