Jens Pulver’s unique place in mixed martial arts history belies the 27-19-1 record with which he finished his career.
The first lightweight titleholder in Ultimate Fighting Championship history, Pulver made his debut in 1999 and won 14 of his first 17 bouts—a run that saw him race to the top of the 155-pound pecking order. “Little Evil” trained under Pat Miletich and became one of MMA’s most popular figures due to his propensity for lightning-strike finishes, his likeable personality and his powerful story of overcoming an abusive upbringing. Pulver did not age particularly well in a sport that was constantly evolving, but his impact was undeniable and lasting.