In December, GFL, a new MMA organization, surprised some fans and professionals of the sport by announcing that its competition format will be in teams (six in total), and now, the scenario is clearer than ever. Last Friday, the ‘Global Fight League’ held its first promotional draft, in which several fighters participated as contestants and coaches. Tyron Woodley was the first pick in the GFL Draft and was part of the Dubai team.

It is worth noting that each team is made up of 20 fighters, two representing each of the ten weight categories (seven men and three women). With teams in cities like Los Angeles, Dubai, and New York, the draft showcased an incredible mix of talent. So, now that we know a lot about the format, here’s a look at the top 10 fighters from the UFC who are now a part of the GFL roster. This list is based purely on their popularity and the buzz they bring to the table. So, without further ado, let’s dive deep into it.

Tony Ferguson (Los Angeles)

Tony Ferguson is one of the most beloved and polarizing figures in MMA. Known for his wild, unpredictable fighting style and his no-nonsense attitude, “El Cucuy” has built a massive following that goes beyond just MMA fans. His thrilling battles in the UFC, including wars with the likes of Justin Gaethje, Anthony Pettis, and Donald Cerrone, cemented his place as a fan favorite. With his unorthodox approach and often chaotic but entertaining fights, Ferguson is a prime pick for Los Angeles.

However, it is worth noting that Ferguson, who will compete at 170 pounds from now on, leaves the UFC as the fighter with the most consecutive losses (8) in the history of the promotion, a stark contrast to his once iconic 8-fight lightweight winning streak. ‘El Cucuy,’ former interim lightweight champion, has not recorded a victory since a TKO (medical detention) over Donald Cerrone in June 2019. He was submitted in one round by Michael Chiesa in what ended up being his last appearance in the Octagon. So, while his pick brings excitement and anticipation to GFL, it is also the opportunity for ‘El Cucuy’ to make the comeback of a lifetime.

Junior dos Santos (Miami)

Junior dos Santos, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion, is a legend in mixed martial arts. After all, he fought some of the most memorable fights in the heavyweight division. His knockout power and fight style once made him a household name in the fight game. Now, Dos Santos adds more strength, skill, and personality to Miami’s roster. His participation definitely boosts the GFL’s star power, bringing in new as well as old fans. With a championship pedigree, dos Santos is one of the top names to look out for in the GFL.

Tyron Woodley (Dubai)

At 42 years old, Tyron Woodley was cooking up a return to MMA. The former UFC Welterweight champion, inactive since 2021, completed his contract with the UFC with a first-round submission loss to Vicente Luque at UFC 260 on March 20, 2021. Back then he was already coming off losses to Colby Covington, Gilbert Burns, and Kamaru Usman. With no recorded MMA wins since September 2018, he is now hungrier than ever. Tyron Woodley’s reputation extends well beyond the octagon.

As a former UFC Welterweight Champion, Woodley dominated his division for years, but his appeal goes beyond MMA. Woodley’s forays into music, acting, and even boxing make him a relevant figure in the mainstream media. Add to that his outspoken personality, and you got the perfect recipe for MMA success. Woodley, the No. 1 overall selection pick for team Dubai, brings a plethora of experience, championship pedigree, and star power to the league, making him one of the key fighters in this inaugural draft.

Andrei Arlovski (Los Angeles)

After ten years in the biggest MMA promotion in the world, the former heavyweight champion did receive a new contract after losing a split decision to Martin Buday in what was the worst fight of UFC 303. Dana White broke the news during the press conference afterwards, claiming that he had been told that Andrei Arlovski won’t re-sign with the promotion, but he plans to keep fighting somewhere else. Now we know what the new destination is.

The former UFC Heavyweight Champion is an MMA great, with a career spanning two decades. Arlovski’s name is well-known among both diehard MMA fans and casual spectators. He brings a plethora of expertise and name recognition to the Los Angeles team, where his longevity and professional accomplishments will undoubtedly be a valuable asset. Arlovski has a loyal fan base, and his popularity is evident. He represents the veteran class of fighters, and his inclusion in the GFL is a huge win for the Los Angeles team.

Yoel Romero (Miami)

The new organization has finally signed Yoel Romero, a former challenger for the UFC Middleweight belt. Romero, 47, has not seen action since a victory on the cards over Thiago Santos in the PFL vs. Bellator held on February 24. The Cuban has been competing at 205 pounds since his Bellator debut in 2021 and is one of the most physically imposing fighters in MMA history.

Romero’s fighting style, which is characterized by explosive quickness and remarkable knockout power, has earned him a devoted fanbase. His physique, along with his action-packed performances, sets him apart in any organization. ‘Soldier of God’s move to the GFL with the Miami team provides instant excitement and appeal to fans who were doubtful about watching the promotion’s events in the first place. Definitely one of the draft’s most recognizable names, he is all set to bring some fireworks in the promotion.

Luke Rockhold (Dubai)

Luke Rockhold continues to embrace new post-UFC opportunities. Rockhold completed a contract with the UFC in August 2022, and since then he has participated in the main event of BKFC 45, where he lost by TKO (retirement) in two rounds to Mike Perry, won the karate fight against Joe Schilling at Karate Combat 45 in the third round, and then proceeded to lose his grappling fight against Patrick Downey at Craig Jones Invitations 1. But now, he is back to being an MMA superstar.

The former UFC Middleweight Champion enjoys a cult following. Rockhold’s model looks and media appearances have helped him become a well-known figure, especially among non-sports fans. His skills inside the cage, particularly his grappling and striking, have propelled him to the top of his generation’s middleweight rankings. His move to Dubai’s GFL team is a tremendous advantage because he brings a combination of championship experience, striking ability, and crossover appeal to the league, giving it significant star power.

Alexander Gustafsson (London)

With no wins since 2017, Alexander Gustafsson doesn’t plan to give up MMA. The former Swedish light heavyweight contender revealed earlier last year that he is preparing for an eventual return to active competition. And here he is again, as a part of the GFL’s roster. Gustafsson, 38, is on a four-fight losing streak, all via finish. The two-time 205-pound title challenger returned to the division with a quick knockout loss in 67 seconds at the hands of Ukraine’s Nikita Krylov on the UFC London Main Card held on July 22, 2022.

However, he now gets a second opportunity. His fights with Jon Jones are forever carved in MMA history, and his accomplishments in the light heavyweight division are undeniable. ‘The Mauler’ has long been a fan favorite in Europe, and his selection in the London squad significantly increases the GFL’s appeal throughout the continent. Gustafsson is one of the sport’s most popular fighters, known for his skilled striking, legendary chin, and commanding respect in the MMA community. So, having him in the GFL is a definite boon for the new promotion.

Fabricio Werdum (Sao Paulo)

Fabricio Werdum is one of the most accomplished heavyweights in MMA history, known for his submission skills and victories over some of the biggest names in the sport. The 47-year-old hasn’t fought in MMA since his 2023 loss to a split decision against Junior dos Santos. But now, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion would be looking forward to revenge, as Santos too is a part of the same promotion. With notable victories over the likes of Alexander Gustafsson, Cain Velasquez, and Fedor Emelianenko, Werdum’s legacy is secure. His quirky personality and sense of humor also make him a fan favorite, and his pick by the Sao Paulo team adds an international flair to the GFL.

Frank Mir (Los Angeles)

UFC president Dana White doesn’t always enjoy a healthy relationship with fighters who have dropped out of his promotion. One fighter who seems to be on better terms with White, however, is former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir. Mir hasn’t fought in the UFC since his 2016 loss to Mark Hunt and has most recently competed under the Bellator MMA banner as well as in the boxing ring.

Now, he hopes to return to the cage as one of the marquee signings for the Los Angeles squad. Definitely among the most distinguished and recognized fighters in MMA history, he gained notoriety thanks to his remarkable ground skills, particularly in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, earning him multiple submission victories in the heavyweight division. Now, with a second chance at MMA, being a part of the GFL allows him to prove why he is such a big draw for Los Angeles.

Urijah Faber (Los Angeles)

Urijah Faber’s second run as a UFC fighter ended earlier this month. The former bantamweight contender was released from his contract with the company. Faber, 45, had not competed since a TKO loss to eventual champion Petr Yan on the UFC 245 Main Card on December 14, 2019. Just five months before the loss, he returned to the sport with a quick TKO over Ricky Simon in the co-main event of UFC Sacramento.

During his first cycle with the company (2011-2016), Faber was a three-time challenger for the undisputed title and co-starred with Dominick Cruz in one of the organization’s most notable rivalries. Now he wants to relive his MMA days by joining the GFL roster. ‘The California Kid’ is a true leader, having served as the head coach for Team Alpha Male. As a result, he may now lead his Los Angeles squad to the top of the promotion by being an active part of their roster.

These ten fighters represent the pinnacle of MMA excellence, and they will all be MVPs for their respective teams. The GFL, like the PFL, will use a point system during the regular season. If the professional wins the fight swiftly (by submission or knockout), he earns four points for his team. The athlete who wins by decision earns three points. Draws are awarded two points. The combatant who is defeated by the decision receives one point. Whoever loses on the fast track fails to score. The four teams with the most points in the first phase proceed to the semifinals. So, are you thrilled about the competition? Please let us know in the comments.