Chael Sonnen Names the Only Fighter Who Could Become UFC’s Next Three-Division Champion
Fight fans, gather ’round. When Chael Sonnen speaks, the MMA world listens – especially when he’s making bold predictions about the future of the sport. The “American Gangster” just dropped a bombshell claim that has the entire fight community buzzing.
According to Sonnen, there’s exactly one fighter in the UFC’s talent-rich roster who has the legitimate potential to achieve what only a select few have even dreamed of: becoming a three-division UFC champion.
The Rarity of Multi-Division Champions
Let’s put this in perspective. In UFC history, we’ve seen fighters like Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Henry Cejudo claim gold in two weight classes. But three? That’s uncharted territory, folks.
The physical and technical challenges of competing across three weight classes are immense. You need the perfect combination of frame, adaptability, and skill set – not to mention the promotional backing to get those opportunities in the first place.
Sonnen’s Mystery Candidate
While Sonnen hasn’t explicitly named his pick (at least not in the snippet we’re discussing), the speculation is running wild. Is he talking about Alex Pereira, who’s already conquered two divisions and seems to be growing larger with each appearance? Could it be the electric Sean O’Malley, who’s talked about moving up from bantamweight? Perhaps it’s someone we’re not even considering.
I’ve followed Sonnen’s career and commentary closely, and one thing’s for certain: when he makes a prediction this specific, there’s usually solid reasoning behind it.
What It Takes to Be a Three-Division Champ
The path to three-division glory isn’t just about talent – it requires a perfect storm of factors:
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Physical Adaptability | Must perform optimally at multiple weights |
| Skill Versatility | Fighting style must translate across divisions |
| Promotional Value | UFC must see financial benefit in the pursuit |
| Timing | Division landscape must allow for opportunities |
The Historical Context
When we look at combat sports history, even boxing has only seen a handful of legitimate three-division champions – and they typically didn’t hold all titles simultaneously. In MMA, where weight cutting is already extreme and divisions are spread further apart, the challenge multiplies.
Yet Sonnen – a man who fought for titles in two different weight classes himself – believes there’s someone with the rare combination of attributes needed to make history.
Could This Prediction Come True?
What makes Sonnen’s claim particularly intriguing is the current landscape of the UFC. With interim titles becoming more common and champion vs. champion superfights increasingly normalized, the pathway to three-division success is more viable than ever before.
Dana White has historically been resistant to fighters holding up multiple divisions, but for the right star with the right momentum, exceptions are always possible.
What’s Your Take?
Who do you think Sonnen is referring to? Is there another fighter you believe has better chances at three-division supremacy? The beauty of MMA is its unpredictability – what seems impossible today could be tomorrow’s reality.
Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s debate who has the best shot at making UFC history!
Source: Bloody Elbow