The UFC announced their newest inductee into their Hall of Fame's pioneer wing -- legendary kickboxer and MMA fighter Maurice Smith.
Despite finishing his MMA career at just 14-14, Smith became UFC Heavyweight Champion in July 1997, capturing the title against the seemingly unstoppable Mark Coleman. He'd go on to successfully defend the title over Tank Abbott later that year.
Smith was a well traveled MMA veteran, picking up wins in Strikeforce, UFC, PRIDE, RINGS, Pancrase, K-1, and IFL, among others. Smith had a rivalry with Marco Ruas, which saw him emerge victorious over the "King of the Streets" twice. Smith would also compete against the likes of Babalu Sobral, Renzo Gracie, Kevin Randleman, Randy Couture, Bas Rutten, Minoru Suzuki, and Ken Shamrock.
Smith's kickboxing record reads 53-13-5. He would compete in several K1- World GP tournaments, and was also a longtime WKA Heavyweight Champion.
Urijah Faber will join Smith in this year's class.
