Long hair has become a trademark of some of the most iconic UFC fighters of all time.
From Conor McGregor’s signature top knot to Max Holloway’s flowing locks, these fighters have not only made an impact inside the octagon but also with their unique hairstyles.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular long-haired UFC fighters and rank their iconic styles. So, sit back, and prepare to be amazed by these long-haired warriors.
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Why Do UFC Fighters Have Long Hair?
The trend of long hair in the UFC is a longstanding one, with many fighters opting to grow out their locks for a variety of reasons. Here are a few potential explanations for why fighters choose to sport long hair in the octagon:
- Cultural or Personal Beliefs: Some fighters choose to grow out their hair as a nod to their cultural heritage or personal beliefs. For example, Max Holloway is of Native Hawaiian descent and has spoken about how his long hair is a symbol of his connection to his culture.
- Superstitions: Like many athletes, some UFC fighters are superstitious and believe that their long hair brings them good luck in the octagon.
- Practical Considerations: Long hair can provide some practical benefits for fighters, such as making it harder for opponents to grab onto their heads or necks during a fight.
Of course, not all fighters with long hair have the same reasons for growing it out. Some may simply enjoy the look or find it empowering. Regardless of why they choose to grow their hair long, these fighters have become iconic figures in the UFC and continue to inspire fans around the world.
Conor McGregor’s Iconic Top Knot
When it comes to iconic hairstyles in the UFC, Conor McGregor’s top knot is at the top of the list. McGregor, known for his flamboyant personality and flashy style, first debuted his top knot in 2014, and it quickly became a trademark of his image both in and out of the octagon.
Over the years, McGregor’s top knot has undergone several transformations, ranging from a sleek and tight bun to a looser, more tousled style. The top knot has become so iconic that it has even been imitated by fans and other fighters.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the top knot also holds cultural significance for McGregor, who has spoken about his Irish heritage and the historical significance of long hair in Celtic tradition. McGregor has even gone so far as to claim that his hair gives him a “cultural edge” in the octagon.
While not all UFC fighters opt for such an attention-grabbing hairstyle, McGregor’s top knot has undoubtedly become a symbol of his larger-than-life personality and fighting style.
Max Holloway’s Flowing Mane
Max Holloway is one of the most popular long-haired UFC fighters, known for his signature flowing locks. His hair has become a trademark of his fighting style, often swishing around as he delivers powerful strikes to his opponents.
But how does Holloway manage to keep his hair looking so luscious while in the ring? According to an interview with GQ, he uses a combination of coconut oil and a hair tie to keep his hair out of his face during fights.
Holloway’s hair has also become a symbol of his Hawaiian heritage. In Hawaiian culture, long hair is often seen as a symbol of strength and mana, or spiritual power. In fact, Holloway has mentioned that he grows out his hair as a way to honor his ancestors.
Overall, Max Holloway’s flowing mane is not only a stylish choice, but also a meaningful reflection of his cultural identity.
Clay Guida’s Untamed Locks
When it comes to long hair in the UFC, few fighters can match the wild and untamed locks of Clay Guida. Guida’s hair has become a symbol of his fighting spirit and his never-say-die attitude in the octagon.
But Guida’s hair is more than just a fashion statement. It also has cultural significance in his Native American heritage. Guida is a member of the Ojibwe tribe, and in many Native American cultures, hair is seen as a symbol of strength and power.
Guida’s hair is often styled in loose, flowing waves, which he says helps him to stay focused during fights. “My hair is kind of like a sixth sense,” he has said. “It lets me feel what’s going on around me and keep my focus on my opponent.”
Despite its wild appearance, Guida takes great care of his hair, using natural products and getting regular trims to keep it healthy. And while some fighters might see long hair as a liability in the octagon, Guida has proven time and time again that he can use his hair to his advantage, whether it’s distracting his opponent or simply adding to his intimidating presence.
Brian Ortega’s Shaved Sides and Long Top
Brian Ortega is known not only for his impressive fighting skills but also for his unique and distinctive hairstyle. Ortega’s hair is always closely shaved on the sides, while the top is left long and wavy, creating a striking contrast.
Ortega’s hairstyle has become an integral part of his personal brand, with many fans and fellow fighters recognizing him for his signature look. In fact, he’s become so well-known for his hair that he even launched his own haircare line called “Brian Ortega Hair” in 2021.
Despite the long locks on top of his head, Ortega keeps his hair well-maintained and out of his face while fighting. He often ties it up in a bun or ponytail, ensuring that it does not become a distraction during bouts.
Ortega’s hairstyle is not only unique but also practical. The closely shaved sides help keep him cool during fights, while the longer top provides some much-needed protection for his head when grappling on the mat.
The Inspiration Behind the Look
Ortega has said that his hairstyle was inspired by the popular ‘undercut’ trend, but with his own twist. The look has evolved over the years, with Ortega experimenting with different lengths and styles on top.
Overall, Ortega’s hairstyle perfectly reflects his personality and fighting style – both are unique, daring, and impossible to ignore.
Alexander Gustafsson’s Viking-Inspired Braids
Alexander Gustafsson is a Swedish UFC fighter known for his striking skills and his iconic Viking-inspired braids.
Gustafsson’s hair is a nod to his Scandinavian heritage and the cultural significance of braids in Norse mythology. In Norse culture, braids were often seen as a symbol of strength and power, making Gustafsson’s hairstyle a perfect match for his fighting style.
Over the years, Gustafsson’s braids have become a trademark of his image as a fighter. He has experimented with different braid styles, including cornrows and intricate braided patterns, but his classic Viking-inspired look remains a fan favorite.
When he’s not in the octagon, Gustafsson is known for keeping his hair long and well-maintained. He has shared his hair care routine in interviews, which involves using natural hair products and avoiding excessive heat styling.
The Viking Warrior Spirit Lives On
“I feel like a viking warrior when I fight, and my hair is a symbol of that. It gives me strength and helps me connect with my culture and roots.”
Gustafsson’s braids are not just a fashion statement, but a nod to his heritage and fighting spirit. They have become a symbol of his identity as a fighter and a reminder of the strength and power of the Vikings.
Ronda Rousey’s Ponytail and Headband
Ronda Rousey is one of the most well-known female fighters in the world, and her signature look includes a sleek ponytail and headband combination. The practical considerations for female fighters when it comes to hair are many, and Rousey has found a stylish solution that also keeps her hair out of her face during fights.
The headband keeps stray hairs from escaping during bouts, which can be distracting or even dangerous in the heat of combat. Meanwhile, the ponytail ensures that Rousey’s hair is secure and out of the way when she’s throwing punches or grappling with opponents.
The look has become a part of Rousey’s brand image and has inspired countless imitators in the fighting world and beyond. It’s a practical, stylish solution that speaks to Rousey’s no-nonsense approach to fighting and her commitment to keeping focused on what really matters: winning.
Georges St-Pierre’s Short and Choppy Cut
Georges St-Pierre, also known as GSP, is a retired UFC fighter who sported a short and choppy haircut throughout most of his career. His hair not only reflected his practical approach to fighting, but also his personal style.
GSP’s haircut allowed him to focus on his performance in the octagon without any distractions or interference from his hair. As a fighter, he always prioritized function over fashion, and his hairstyle was no exception.
Although GSP’s hair was short, it didn’t mean that he didn’t pay attention to it. He often changed his hairstyle, experimenting with different lengths and styles over the years. However, he never let his hair get too long or become a hindrance during a fight.
Even though GSP’s haircut may not have been as iconic as some of the other long-haired fighters in the UFC, it reflected his approach to fighting and his commitment to always perform at his best.
Long-Haired UFC Champions
It’s no secret that many UFC fighters choose to grow out their hair, and some of the most successful champions in the sport have sported long locks throughout their careers.
| Fighter | Hair Style | Championships Won |
|---|---|---|
| Anderson Silva | Braids/Long Hair | UFC Middleweight Champion (2006-2013) |
| Jon Jones | Long Hair | UFC Light Heavyweight Champion (2011-2019) |
| Georges St-Pierre | Short/Choppy Hair | UFC Welterweight Champion (2006-2007, 2008-2013) |
| Conor McGregor | Top Knot/Long Hair | UFC Featherweight Champion (2015-2016) and UFC Lightweight Champion (2016-2018) |
Anderson Silva, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time, often wore his hair in braids or styled it in a long ponytail. Jon Jones’ long hair became a signature part of his look as he dominated the light heavyweight division for nearly a decade. Georges St-Pierre kept his hair short and choppy throughout most of his career, but he still managed to become one of the most successful fighters in UFC history.
Conor McGregor, known for his flamboyant personality and fashion sense, has experimented with various long hair styles throughout his career. His iconic top knot has become synonymous with his brand, and he even has a clothing line called “August McGregor” that features a lion logo inspired by his hair.
While there is no direct correlation between hair length and fighting success, it’s clear that many UFC champions have embraced long hair as a part of their personal style and image.
FAQs about UFC Fighters with Long Hair
As the trend of long hair in the UFC continues to grow, fans have many questions about fighters and their iconic hairstyles. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about UFC fighters with long hair:
Does hair length affect a fighter’s performance?
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that hair length has any direct impact on a fighter’s performance. However, some fighters may prefer to keep their hair short for practical reasons, such as reducing the risk of hair getting in their eyes or being pulled by their opponent. Ultimately, it is up to each individual fighter to decide what hairstyle works best for them in the ring.
How do fighters maintain their long hair during fights?
Maintaining long hair during a fight can be challenging, especially given the physical nature of the sport. Some fighters may choose to tie their hair back in a tight bun or ponytail to keep it out of their face, while others may use products such as hairspray or gel to keep their locks in place. Ultimately, each fighter will have their own approach to maintaining their hairstyle during a fight.
Are there any rules about hair length in the UFC?
The UFC does not have any specific rules about hair length, but fighters are required to keep their hair tied back and out of their face during fights. Additionally, some state athletic commissions may have their own rules about hair length or hairstyles, so fighters should be aware of these regulations when competing in different states.
Can long hair be a disadvantage in the UFC?
While hair length itself is unlikely to be a disadvantage, having long hair can potentially create more opportunities for an opponent to grab hold of it during a fight. This is why many fighters choose to tie their hair back tightly or keep it short to reduce the risk of being pulled or restrained by their opponent.
Do female fighters have different rules about hair length?
Female fighters are required to keep their hair tied back and out of their face during fights, just like their male counterparts. However, they may face additional challenges in maintaining their hairstyles due to the length or thickness of their hair. Some female fighters may choose to wear protective headgear or hairstyles such as braids or buns to minimize the risk of their hair becoming a distraction or liability during a fight.
Ultimately, the decision to grow out or maintain long hair in the UFC is a personal one for each fighter. While some may view it as a symbol of strength, heritage, or personal brand, others may prefer to keep their hair short for practical reasons. Regardless of their hairstyle, what matters most is a fighter’s skill, determination, and performance in the ring.
