Georges St-Pierre: The Legacy of MMA’s Greatest and How He’d Fare Today

Georges St-Pierre is widely regarded as the greatest Canadian MMA fighter of all time and arguably the greatest in the sport’s history. As a two-weight UFC world champion, he joined an elite club, winning titles at welterweight and middleweight. His resume includes victories over some of the most formidable opponents of his era, such as B.J. Penn, Nick Diaz, and Michael Bisping, in a period when the welterweight division was stacked with talent.

Statistically, GSP’s 90 takedowns remain a UFC record, and his all-round game, bolstered by world-class coaches and relentless dedication, made him one of the most versatile fighters in MMA history. Even after a four-year hiatus, he proved his greatness by returning to win the middleweight title. In 2024, his name was further etched in history when he was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

How Would St-Pierre Fare in Today’s MMA World?

Since GSP retired in 2013, a lot has changed in MMA. Take technology for instance. Advanced software, that has driven innovation in things like data gathering and virtual reality, has had a profound impact in combat sports through performance analysis and combat simulations.

Leveraging data is perhaps the biggest change – both in terms of participation and spectatorship. For example, when fans bet online, not only do they have access to a broad range of products, but they can also access features like in-game betting. This is made possible because operators use live data feeds to adjust odds instantaneously, enabling bets on events occurring within seconds, such as a penalty in soccer or an ace in tennis.

MMA has also evolved from a clash of single-discipline specialists to a showcase of complex, multidisciplinary athletes who master striking, grappling, and everything in between. Fighters now train in multiple disciplines from the outset, reflecting a more holistic approach to combat.

Simultaneously, MMA’s popularity and legitimacy have skyrocketed. Media coverage, digital platforms, and high-profile events organized by promotions like the UFC have brought the sport to global audiences, transforming it from a niche pursuit into a mainstream spectacle. Public perception has shifted dramatically, with MMA now recognized as a disciplined and sophisticated sport requiring immense skill and preparation. The growth of academies and increased accessibility have further broadened its reach, while innovations in safety and inclusivity continue to shape its future.

Recently, Fight TV created a hypothetical bout between GSP and Israel Adesanya. Their experts said the fight would be a fascinating clash of styles, pitting GSP’s mastery of wrestling and striking against Adesanya’s elite precision and range in kickboxing. The key to the fight, however, would be GSP’s ability to control where the action unfolds, relying on his legendary double-leg takedown to neutralize Adesanya’s striking arsenal.

In a tightly contested five-round battle, Fight TV surmised that Adesanya’s adaptability and striking brilliance would be countered by GSP’s relentless pressure and ability to dominate in prolonged ground exchanges. Ultimately, GSP’s well-rounded skillset and tactical execution might edge out a razor-thin decision victory.

Unmatched Legacy

St-Pierre’s legacy as one of MMA’s greatest is built on unmatched skill, professionalism, and adaptability. His dominance during a transformative era in the sport, coupled with his ability to transcend generational boundaries, ensures his name remains synonymous with excellence.