The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is filled with larger-than-life personalities, and for many, getting inked is a way to express their individuality and dedication to the sport. However, not all UFC tattoos are created equal. While some fighters sport intricate, meaningful designs, others have opted for more... questionable choices. Let's take a look at some of the worst UFC tattoos out there.
Before we dive in, it's important to note that everyone's taste is subjective, and what may seem like a poor choice to one person might hold deep significance to another. That being said, these tattoos have gained notoriety for their uniqueness, often for all the wrong reasons.
Faces and Portraits
Tattooing a face or portrait is no easy task, and it requires a skilled artist to pull off. Unfortunately, not all UFC fighters have chosen wisely when it comes to getting a portrait tattoo.
A prime example is former UFC lightweight champion Ben Henderson's tattoo of his wife's face. While the sentiment behind it is sweet, the execution leaves much to be desired. The tattoo, located on his back, features his wife with a somewhat distorted face, making it difficult to appreciate the intended likeness.
UFC President Dana White
UFC President Dana White is known for his no-nonsense attitude and outspoken personality. However, his tattoo of himself might be a bit too self-absorbed, even for his standards. The tattoo, located on his right arm, features a cartoonish version of White with the words "Dana White" written underneath. It's certainly unique, but it's also one of the most criticized UFC tattoos.
White has since added to this tattoo, turning it into a sleeve. While the addition of other elements has made it less noticeable, it's still one of the most talked-about UFC tattoos for all the wrong reasons.
Chuck Liddell's Face Tattoo
Former UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell is another fighter known for his questionable tattoo choices. His most infamous tattoo is the face of a Native American chief on his back. While the tattoo itself is detailed and well-done, the placement makes it look like Liddell has a permanent, upside-down face growing out of his spine.
Liddell has since added more tattoos to his back, but the face tattoo remains one of the most memorable - and cringe-worthy - UFC tattoos.
Pop Culture References
Some UFC fighters have chosen to immortalize their love for pop culture with tattoos. While some of these tattoos are well-executed and meaningful, others are... not so much.
A prime example is former UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar's tattoo of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. While the tattoo itself is detailed and well-done, the placement - on Lesnar's stomach - makes it look like he has a permanent, four-headed alien baby growing out of his abdomen.
Jon Jones' "Gangster" Tattoo
Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones has a history of making questionable decisions, and his tattoos are no exception. One of his most infamous tattoos is the word "Gangster" written in script across his neck. While the tattoo itself is well-done, the placement and the word choice have led many to question Jones' judgment.
Jones has since added more tattoos to his body, including a large, detailed sleeve on his right arm. While these new tattoos are certainly more impressive than his "gangster" neck tattoo, they haven't exactly helped him shake off his reputation for poor tattoo choices.
Cody Garbrandt's "No Love" Tattoo
Former UFC bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt is another fighter known for his questionable tattoo choices. His most infamous tattoo is the phrase "No Love" written in script across his back. While the tattoo itself is well-done, the placement and the word choice have led many to question Garbrandt's judgment.
Garbrandt has since added more tattoos to his body, including a large, detailed sleeve on his right arm. While these new tattoos are certainly more impressive than his "no love" back tattoo, they haven't exactly helped him shake off his reputation for poor tattoo choices.
In the world of MMA, tattoos are a way of life. They tell a story, express individuality, and serve as a reminder of one's journey. However, as we've seen, not all UFC tattoos are created equal. Some are works of art, while others are... well, let's just say they're unique. At the end of the day, though, it's important to remember that everyone's taste is subjective, and what may seem like a poor choice to one person might hold deep significance to another. So, let's embrace the diversity of UFC tattoos, both good and bad, and appreciate the stories they tell."