Get ready for a heated debate, because former UFC champ Tyron Woodley has some strong opinions about the welterweight GOAT debate!
In a recent interview, Woodley shared his thoughts on Dana White's declaration that Kamaru Usman is the greatest welterweight of all time. But here's where it gets controversial... Woodley, who held the title himself and defended it four times, strongly disagrees.
"Kamaru is not the greatest welterweight," Woodley asserts. "I had the realest journey, the toughest reign, and I faced the top contenders without the big talk. I fought guys like Demian Maia, Robbie Lawler, and Stephen Thompson, who were respected and not known for trash talk. I took on all the up-and-comers, even Usman, Colby, and Till."
But it's not just about the fights, according to Woodley. He believes Usman's success is more about kissing up to the right people than his performance in the octagon.
"He's the one who invited Dana White onto his podcast, accepted every fight, and hung out in his office to stay in his good graces," Woodley explains. "He took last-minute fights, fought injured, and never complained about money. That's how you end up in the GOAT category."
Woodley argues that White's declaration is less about championship credentials and more about praising someone who followed orders and didn't cause trouble.
"It's not about being the best fighter," he says. "It's about being a good soldier."
And this is the part most people miss: Woodley believes his own journey and reign as champion were more authentic and challenging. He defended the title four times and faced top contenders without the luxury of last-minute fights or injury excuses.
"I fought the best of the best," he says. "Usman fought a version of me that was going through personal struggles. I don't even remember the fight. I never got a rematch, and that's because they knew I would win."
Woodley admits he once had a close relationship with Usman, mentoring him as he climbed the ranks. But their relationship changed as they prepared for their showdown.
"I'm not hating on Kamaru," he clarifies. "He's a great fighter, but he looked up to me. And when I joked around with him, he didn't like it. I was like a big brother to him, and he took it personally."
So, who is the true welterweight GOAT? According to Woodley, it's a three-way tie between himself, Usman, and Matt Hughes.
"Georges St-Pierre is No. 1, and Matt Hughes is No. 2," he says. "We watched those two and carved out our own paths."
As for his own future in MMA, Woodley is leaving the door open but admits it would take something special to get him back in the cage. He's currently preparing for a boxing match against Anderson Silva and is focused on that challenge.
"I'm praying about it," he says. "I want to finish with a bang, but I have to ask God if it's my pride or His will. At 43, my body isn't what it used to be. I have to watch what I eat for the first time in my life."
So, what do you think? Is Usman the welterweight GOAT, or is Woodley onto something? Let us know in the comments! Are you team Usman or team Woodley?
