10 Best Beards in the UFC History

Is there anything more manly than stepping into the UFC ring? Doing so with a beard, of course. Little surprise in such a testosterone-fueled environment that several notable UFC fighters sport incredible (and bizarre) beards and facial hair. And that's without mentioning the referees – think of Mike Beltran's braided mustache!

However, you'd think that beards would be a liability in a sport involving so much grappling and fighting. Indeed, Alexander the Great banished beards from his armies as enemies were liable to give them a yank. So, are there any advantages?

According to the latest scientific research, beards are unlikely to cushion your face against the powerful punch unless it's truly a wild bush. What it can do, however, is reduce the risk of injury, laceration, and contusion of the skin. There's a reason why beards evolved to cover your jawline. 

But who has the UFC beard to match their impressive physique? If you're looking for your next bearded inspiration, read on.

Best Beards in UFC History

10. Dave Herman

We only caught a few glimpses of Dave "PeeWee" Herman's incredible beard, which might have positioned him prominently in the realm of bearded fighters. A critic of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Herman had to reconsider his stance when he was bested by BJJ pro Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, especially significant as Herman had chosen to shave his beard for this bout.

Perhaps this experience will encourage him to maintain his facial hair, which seemed to play a role in his previous successes in evading submissions.

9. Alessia Sakara

One of the UFC's most recognizable beards, Alessio Sakara debuted at UFC 55 in 2005 and fought his last match in 2013. Looking like a cross between a Spartan warrior and a Roman centurion, Sakara's beard was key to his distinctive identity. 

Over his career, he saw a mixed record of 19-11. But one notable occurrence happened when he punched the back of Patrick Cote's head – did anyone expect him to play by the rules?

8. Jon Jones

Jon Jones occasionally rocked a beard, adding a menacing layer to his already fearsome persona. Not the most flamboyant beard in the UFC, but it underscored his aura of invincibility, further building his legendary status. 

Jones's ability to dominate his opponents wasn't just about physical prowess; it was also about cultivating an image that exuded confidence and strength. He grew his first beard in the UFC 151 event with Sonnen, although he shaved it soon after. 

7. Keith Jardine

Keith, "The Dean of Mean", Jardine's beard was as rugged and no-nonsense as his fighting style. It wasn't just facial hair; it was a statement piece, amplifying his tough, battle-ready persona.

Unlike almost every other beard on the list, Jardine is blonde. He also didn't opt for the standard full beard. At different points in his career, he goes for something almost resembling a ducktail. It provides a pointy, devilish appearance that was sure to intimate his opponents further. 

6. Cody McKenzie

Nobody else in the UFC has a beard like Cody McKenzie. Known as a "Van Dyke," he looks less like a UFC fighter than a renaissance artist. However, the Van Dyke shouldn't be underestimated. Also worn by General Custer, it's the beard beloved by the Southern cavalry officers.

McKenzie's scruffy, untamed facial hair became a symbol of his gritty, relentless fighting spirit. His beard wasn't just a style choice; it felt like an extension of his wild, unpredictable approach to fighting, making him an unforgettable figure in the UFC with a look as unique as his techniques.

5. Evan Tanner

No-nonsense and untamed, Evan Tanner's bushy beard is the kind of facial fuzz that might actually provide some protection. In fact, it's one of the thickest beards in Mixed Martial Artists.

Sadly, Tanner died some years ago, but he remains a beloved UFC fighter and champion. His facial hair added an extra layer of gravitas to his already respected persona, embodying the soul of a warrior-philosopher.

4. Court McGee

Court McGee's beard is a hallmark of his resilience and tenacity. More than just facial hair, it's a symbol of his incredible comeback story and fighting spirit.

Indeed, alongside McKenzie, it's probably among the most unique beards in the sport. Big and bushy, it's an impressive sight – albeit it does make him look like Amish's entry into UFC. (Just don't say that to his face.) But if the chin curtain was good enough for Abe Lincoln, it's good enough for us. 

3. Ian McCall

Nicknamed "Uncle Creepy," Ian McCall first signed with the UFC in 2011 to compete in a four-man Flyweight Tournament. The result? He lost to Demetrious Johnson in the opening round. However, his record has improved significantly since, with a win ratio of 13-5. In fact, he was ranked #5 for several despite not fighting. 

It's his handlebar mustache that sealed his place on this list. He frequently shifts between beard styles. But the carefully coiffured handlebar is the most distinctive, marking out his charisma and character. 

2. Kimbo Slice

Kimbo Slice's beard was iconic, a symbol of his street-fighter-turned-professional-MMA-athlete persona. His thick, formidable facial hair was as much a part of his identity as his bare-knuckle brawls and heavy punches.

It was, simply put, a beard you can't ignore. Effortlessly cool, the former YouTube backyard brawler and six-time MMA fighter passed away in 2016. Still, he remains a titan of martial arts, bare-knuckle boxing, and the UFC. 

1. Conor McGregor

"The Notorious" Conor McGregor hardly needs an introduction, standing as the Irish MMA sensation and UFC Featherweight Champion, also competing in lightweight and welterweight divisions. Known for his sharp wit and sharper punches, McGregor is the biggest pay-per-view draw in MMA history.

Beyond his in-the-ring accomplishments, McGregor is also a beard legend. Often styled as a Verdi, boxed, or full beard, it matches his trademark confidence and flair. 

With an impressive tally of 6 KO/TKO in 8 UFC bouts, the power of McGregor's beard is undeniable. Debates may arise over his beard's ranking, but like McGregor's presence in the octagon, it's a force to be reckoned with.