“Shogun” is entering the UFC Hall of Fame.
The legendary UFC and PRIDE fighter — born Mauricio Rua, but universally recognized by his famous nickname — was announced Saturday as the latest inductee to the UFC’s 2024 Hall of Fame class. Rua, 42, was in attendance for UFC 301 at Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro and received raucous applause from the audience following the announcement.
Watch the video package that aired in the arena and on the pay-per-view broadcast below.
In his 42-fight career, Rua authored countless memorable moments, particularly early in his career when he became one of the breakout stars of Japan’s PRIDE promotion. The fearsome Shogun became known for his berserker offensive style and intense finishes, often capped off by the Brazilian star stomping or soccer kicking his unfortunate victims. He famously won a grand prix tournament in 2005, knocking off Quinton Jackson, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Alistair Overeem, and Ricardo Arona en route to the trophy.
Rua joined the UFC with much fanfare in 2007, but suffered a shocking defeat to Forrest Griffin in his debut that marked a rocky start to his time with the promotion. However, he went on to capture the light heavyweight championship with a first-round knockout of Lyoto Machida at UFC 113. Though he failed to record a defense of the belt, more memorable moments followed, including an all-time great five-round fight with Dan Henderson (the bout was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018), a revenge knockout win over Griffin, as well as a multitude of Fight Night bonuses.
Following a loss to Ihor Potieria in January 2023, Rua announced his retirement from competition. He finished his pro career with a 27-14-1 record.
Rua will be inducted into the pioneer wing, joining Brazilian great Anderson Silva, fellow PRIDE legend Kazushi Sakuraba, Chuck Liddell, Matt Hughes, Randy Couture, and others.
The 2024 UFC Hall of Fame ceremony takes place June 27 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as part of the 12th UFC Annual International Fight Week event. Also set to join the hall this year are Wanderlei Silva, Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Frankie Edgar, and the UFC 117 middleweight title fight clash between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen.
