In an effort to bring more attention to the global stage of mixed martial arts, this list does not focus on major North American-based promotions such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Bellator MMA and the World Series of Fighting.
Shinya Aoki has no intention of ceding his throne anytime soon.
Aoki will put his lightweight crown on the line against Eduard Folayang in the One Championship “Defending Honor” main event on Nov. 11 at Singapore Indoor Stadium in Kallang, Singapore. The 33-year-old champion has never lost under the One Championship banner.