Georges St-Pierre record and biography: the architect of modern MMA greatness

Fact box

• Name: Georges St-Pierre
• Nickname: “Rush”
• Born: May 19, 1981 (Saint-Isidore, Quebec, Canada)
• Height: 178 cm (5’10”)
• Reach: 76 in (193 cm)
• Division: Welterweight / Middleweight
• Stance: Orthodox
• Pro MMA record: 26–2 (8 KOs, 6 submissions, 12 decisions)
• Teams: Tristar Gym (Montreal), Jackson-Wink MMA (Albuquerque)
• Championships: 2-division UFC Champion, 13 title fight wins (UFC record)

Records & accolades

Georges St-Pierre’s record reads like a masterclass in consistency. His 13 UFC title fight victories remain unmatched, while his combined championship reign surpasses 2,200 days — the most dominant in welterweight history. A two-division champion, St-Pierre first claimed the 170-pound title in 2006, then returned after a four-year hiatus to win the middleweight crown at UFC 217 in 2017. Few athletes in any sport have achieved that level of comeback success.

He was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2020, recognized not only for athletic greatness but for his sportsmanship, preparation, and intellect. Across 28 professional fights, St-Pierre outstruck and out-grappled nearly every opponent, compiling a +973 total strike differential — the largest in UFC history at the time of his retirement. He also remains one of the few champions to retire without being finished inside the Octagon.

Career timeline

• 2002: Makes pro MMA debut in Canada, winning his first five bouts by stoppage.
• 2004: Debuts in UFC; quickly defeats Karo Parisyan and Jay Hieron with precision and control.
• 2006: Captures UFC Welterweight Championship by defeating Matt Hughes at UFC 65.
• 2007: Stunned by Matt Serra at UFC 69; vows to rebuild from the ground up.
• 2008–2013: Dominates division, defending his title nine consecutive times, beating Jon Fitch, BJ Penn, Thiago Alves, Dan Hardy, and others.
• 2013: Steps away after controversial split decision over Johny Hendricks at UFC 167.
• 2017: Returns to defeat Michael Bisping for the UFC Middleweight title via submission at UFC 217.
• 2019: Officially retires, citing “no more mountains to climb.”

Style & tactics

St-Pierre’s style was rooted in Kyokushin karate, refined through modern wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His stand-up featured long-range jabs, side kicks, and deceptive movement — a striking rhythm that confused pressure fighters. But GSP’s evolution came through wrestling. Despite no collegiate background, he became arguably the best MMA wrestler of his era, mastering timing-based double-leg takedowns that shut down elite grapplers like Jon Fitch and Josh Koscheck.

What truly set him apart was strategy. GSP was among the first to adopt opponent-specific game plans — using film study, analytical coaching, and live data to neutralize strengths and exploit weaknesses. Against BJ Penn, he used pace and pressure to drain the Hawaiian’s cardio. Against Dan Hardy, he implemented control-based jiu-jitsu. Against Condit, he relied on defensive sharpness and top control. Every fight was a chess match — emotionless, exact, and efficient.

Notable fights

• vs. Matt Hughes II (UFC 65): Knockout victory marking the transfer of welterweight power.
• vs. Matt Serra II (UFC 83): Emotional redemption in front of a Canadian crowd; dominant TKO win.
• vs. BJ Penn II (UFC 94): One of the sport’s first super-fights; GSP’s complete dominance displayed MMA’s evolution.
• vs. Carlos Condit (UFC 154): Return after ACL surgery, showing elite composure and fight control.
• vs. Michael Bisping (UFC 217): Comeback after four years, winning a second UFC belt — cementing GSP’s legendary status.

Impact and legacy

St-Pierre’s legacy extends beyond victories. He proved that discipline and humility could sell as much as bravado. In an era increasingly driven by trash talk, GSP became the UFC’s most bankable star by embodying martial virtues. His influence reshaped the culture of fighter professionalism, inspiring modern champions like Leon Edwards, Kamaru Usman, and Alexander Volkanovski.

From Canada’s frozen gyms to global arenas, GSP turned MMA into a symbol of intelligence and integrity. He made preparation glamorous, science sexy, and respect profitable. That transformation remains his greatest victory.

FAQ

What is Georges St-Pierre’s final record?

He retired at 26–2, avenging both losses and capturing titles in two divisions.

Who did Georges St-Pierre lose to?

His only losses came to Matt Hughes (2004) and Matt Serra (2007), both avenged in rematches.

How many times did GSP defend his UFC title?

He defended his welterweight belt nine consecutive times between 2008–2013, one of the longest streaks in UFC history.

Is GSP retired for good?

Yes, as of 2025, he remains officially retired and has rejected offers for comeback bouts.