Vitor Belfort experienced a deep emotional moment as he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, a recognition of his remarkable 22-year career in mixed martial arts. The 48-year-old, who officially retired from MMA in 2018 after a loss to Lyoto Machida, celebrated this milestone at UFC 315, visibly moved as he accepted the honor.
Dana White, the president of UFC, highlighted Belfort’s significant contributions to the sport, noting that he made an impact from the onset, becoming the youngest athlete to win both a UFC fight and tournament at just 19 years old. White described Belfort as a pioneer and a legend of the sport, underscoring the honor of inducting him into the Hall of Fame.
Throughout his career, Belfort faced legendary fighters such as Jon Jones, Anderson Silva, Randy Couture, and Chuck Liddell, engaging in bouts against a total of 10 champions. His career was not without controversy, notably surrounding his legal use of testosterone-replacement therapy (TRT), which was later banned in competitions unless a medical exemption was provided.
Belfort’s legacy includes a notorious fight in 2013 against Michael Bisping, where a head kick led to Bisping suffering a detached retina, eventually requiring surgery and the use of a prosthetic eye. Their contentious relationship persists, with Bisping labeling Belfort as one of the “biggest cheats in all of sport.”
After retiring from UFC, Belfort transitioned into boxing, making headlines with a stunning knockout of Evander Holyfield in 2021. Despite several cancelled bouts afterward, he returned to the ring in 2023 against Ronaldo Souza, winning by points.
While Belfort’s journey in the octagon came with highs and lows, his induction into the Hall of Fame solidifies his status as a significant figure in the MMA community. This recognition is a testament to his impact on the sport and a celebration of his contributions, providing a hopeful outlook for future generations of fighters aspiring to make their mark.