Back to Tools

MMA Math

Can Fighter A "technically" beat Fighter B? Find the shortest chain of wins connecting any two UFC fighters.

What is MMA Math?

MMA Math is a fun (and totally flawed) way to compare fighters using transitive wins. The logic goes: if Fighter A beat Fighter B, and Fighter B beat Fighter C, then Fighter A should beat Fighter C. Of course, fighting doesn't work that way, but it's entertaining to see the chains.

Our tool searches through real UFC fight results to find the shortest chain of wins connecting any two fighters. Sometimes the chain is just one fight. Sometimes it takes six or seven links. And sometimes no chain exists at all.

Why MMA Math Doesn't Work

  • Styles make fights - some matchups favor different fighters
  • Fighters improve (or decline) over time
  • Weight cuts, injuries, and camp situations matter
  • Lucky punches and flash submissions happen
  • Judging decisions can be controversial

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the chain search work?

We use a breadth-first search algorithm on our database of UFC fight results. Starting from Fighter A, we follow the trail of wins until we reach Fighter B, finding the shortest possible chain.

What if no chain is found?

We search up to 8 links deep. If no chain is found, try swapping the fighters (A beats B might not exist, but B beats A might). Some fighters, especially newer ones, may not have enough fights to form a chain.