The PROMMA.INFO writers poll is a compilation of all the website’s writers. These rankings represent the collective view of all our staff.
Heavyweight
1. Fedor Emelianenko – WAMMA Champion
Last Fight
The world’s number one fighter seemed to be on the ropes against Andre Arlovski, but Fedor Emelianenko quickly turned the tide and highlight reel knocked out his Belarussian opponent.
Next Fight
After Emelianenko signed with Strikeforce, the MMA world was a buzz with speculation about his next opponent. Now, it has been determined that Brett Rogers will get the first crack at the Last Emperor sometime this fall.
2. Brock Lesnar – UFC Champion
Last Fight
The colorful UFC champion got his revenge on Frank Mir. His domination of the only man to defeat him, has led many in the sport to declare the former WWE star the real deal.
Next Fight
Shane Carwin will get the next crack at Lesnar, as the two square off for the title at UFC 106 on Nov. 21.
3. Frank Mir
Last Fight
At the weigh ins Frank Mir appeared to be in the best shape of his life. During the fight, he was physically dominated by Brock Lesnar en route to a second round TKO loss.
Next Fight
For the first time in possibly ever, the UFC heavyweight division is almost stacked. After taking on Lesnar, Frank Mir does not get a reprieve. He is set to take on French striker Cheick Kongo at UFC 107 on Dec. 12.
4. Josh Barnett
Last Fight
It seems like a distance memory now, but back in January Josh Barnett defeated Gilbert Yvel via third round stoppage. Since then, Barnett’s positive substance test forced him to withdraw from a fight with Fedor Emelianenko, and return to the world of Japanese professional wrestling.
Next Fight
Rumors have been circulating that World Victory Road’s Sengoku promotion is trying to set up a fight between banished heavyweight Josh Barnett and Antonio Silva, but nothing is set in stone yet.
5. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Last Fight
After losing to Frank Mir, it appeared as if Nogueira was in the twilight of his career, but he came back in a big way against Randy Couture. Nogueira’s iron chin and ground superiority were once again on display as he brought home the unanimous decision.
Next Fight
So far, there have been no announcements made concerning Nogueira’s next opponent, but recently he has express interest in a rematch with former heavyweight champion Frank Mir.
6. Randy Couture
Last Fight
In a battle between two legends, Randy Couture came up short against Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. Like always, Captain American gave the fans all they could ask for.
Next Fight
Nothing is on the horizon for Couture, but the five-time UFC champion has indicated he is interested in a return to the light heavyweight division.
7. Brett Rogers
Last Fight
Nobody in the MMA industry besides agent Ken Pavia thought it was possible, but Brett Rogers knocked out former UFC champion Andre Arlovski in less than a minute.
Next Fight
Despite only being 10-0, Brett Rogers will get the first crack at Fedor Emelianenko in Strikeforce. Once again Rogers will be out to prove the MMA community wrong.
8. Shane Carwin
Last Fight
He seemed to be on the ropes early, but Shane Carwin quickly rebounded and knocked out veteran Gabriel Gonzaga. Gonzaga was Carwin’s 11th straight opponent to not make it out of the first round.
Next Fight
Originally, Shane Carwin was set to fight Cain Velasquez in a number one contenders fight, but now Carwin will instead get a shot at UFC champion Brock Lesnar at UFC 106.
9. Alistair Overeem – Strikeforce Champion
Last Fight
Back in November of last year, Alistair Overeem submitted veteran Gary Goodridge. Since then Overeem has twice competed in K-1, defeating Badr Hari and losing to Remy Bonjasky.
Next Fight
Despite being the Strikeforce champion, Overeem’s next fight will come in K-1 against Peter Aerts on Sept. 26. His next MMA fight is scheduled for Oct. 17 against Siala Silga for the Golden Glory 10 year anniversary show.
10. Andre Arlovski
Last Fight
The former UFC heavyweight champion was upset by prospect Brett Rogers back in June. It was Arlovski’s second knockout loss in a row.
Next Fight
Arlovski is now a free agent. There are currently no fights scheduled. Fans can look for the former champion on season two of “Bully Beatdown”
Others receiving votes: Mirko Cro Cop, Fabricio Werdum, Cain Velasquez