In the world of mixed martial arts, the pursuit of championship gold is a relentless battle where only one fighter can stand at the top. The concept of “The One”—the singular warrior destined to reign supreme—is not just a cornerstone of combat sports but a recurring theme in pop culture. From ancient warriors to futuristic saviors, cinema has long echoed the brutal reality of what it takes to be the last one standing.
“There can be only one.” This immortal phrase from Highlander (1986) embodies the essence of elite competition. Just as Connor MacLeod must fight through centuries of duels to emerge as the sole survivor, MMA champions must battle through a gauntlet of contenders, proving their dominance one fight at a time. Every champion, from Anderson Silva to Jon Jones, has faced challengers seeking to take their throne, but in the end, history only remembers the one who stands tallest.
In The Matrix (1999), Neo is prophesied to be “The One,” but self-doubt clouds his journey to greatness. This mirrors the path of many fighters who rise through the ranks, facing skepticism, setbacks, and self-questioning before proving their worth. Champions like Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski were once underestimated, yet through belief and skill, they cemented their place as the elite fighter of their division.
In The Hunger Games (2012), Katniss Everdeen enters an unforgiving contest where only one victor is allowed. Much like the UFC’s grueling title races, contenders must survive a battle of attrition, outlasting rivals who are just as hungry for the crown. The Octagon is its own kind of arena—where the strongest, smartest, and most resilient competitor walks away with gold, leaving the rest behind.
“Are you not entertained?” In Gladiator (2000), Maximus rises from slavery to become the people’s champion, proving that greatness is earned through sheer will and relentless combat. MMA is no different. Fighters like Charles Oliveira, who clawed their way to the top after years of setbacks, embody the idea that being the one isn’t about starting at the top—it’s about fighting through every obstacle to claim it.
Whether in the movies or the cage, the journey to become the champion is one of struggle, sacrifice, and singular triumph. The Highlander swings his sword, Neo dodges bullets, Katniss defies the Capitol, and the gladiator earns his freedom—but in the end, their stories reflect the same reality that fighters live by: there can only be one.