Clay Guida has built a distinctive legacy in the UFC through relentless pressure fighting and extraordinary durability. Across more than two decades, his record reflects long, competitive bouts and a fighter who rarely backed away from a challenge.
This article breaks down Clay Guida UFC record details, key performances, and the numbers that define his career. Readers can scan the summary table, compare his eras, and review common questions to better understand his impact.
| Category | Clay Guida | Division | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Record | 29–13–0 | Lightweight, Welterweight | Retired |
| NC | 1 | No Contest vs. Joe Stevenson (2009) | Overturned to loss |
| Wins by KO/TKO | 8 | Key finishes: vs. Nate Diaz, Hermes Franca | Finishing ability |
| Wins by Decision | 20 | Many split and unanimous decisions | High output, endurance |
Clay Guida UFC Record Win Breakdown
Victory Methods and Patterns
Clay Guida secured his wins through a combination of finishes and decisions. He recorded eight victories by knockout or submission, showcasing highlight-reel KOs against notable names. The remaining twenty wins came by decision, demonstrating his ability to adapt over long, strategic fights. This balance made him dangerous on both legs.
Career Longevity and Volume
Fight Count and Competitive Era
With over forty professional contests, Guida ranked among the most experienced fighters in UFC history. His tenure spanned multiple weight classes and rule changes, facing top contenders in different eras. This longevity is reflected in his record and the level of competition he accepted throughout his career.
Notable Fights and Turning Points
Key Wins and Memorable Losses
Victories over Hermes Franca, Nate Diaz, and Tyson Griffin highlighted his peak performances and earned him Performance of the Night bonuses. Equally important were tough losses to champions like Anthony Pettis and Ben Henderson, which framed his trajectory and respect within the division. Each bout added context to his UFC record.
Style, Stamina, and Legacy
Pressure Fighting and Durability
Guida was known for high-paced scrambles, relentless forward pressure, and an exceptionally high work rate. His cardio allowed him to maintain intensity deep into fights, often forcing opponents into mistakes. Although he never captured a belt, his durability and fan-friendly style left a lasting impact on lightweight history.
Key Takeaways
- Record of 29–13–0 across lightweight and welterweight divisions
- Eight finishes by KO/TKO, with twenty decision victories
- One NC that is commonly listed alongside his official record
- Long career featuring matchups against multiple champions
- Legacy defined by heart, durability, and fan engagement
FAQ
Reader questions
How many fights did Clay Guida compete in during his UFC career?
Clay Guida competed in more than thirty fights in the UFC, showcasing exceptional durability and longevity at the highest level of MMA.
Did Clay Guida ever fight for a UFC championship belt?
No, he challenged for the lightweight title but never captured a UFC championship during his tenure.
What was Clay Guida's most famous finish in the UFC? His knockout of Hermes Franca and victory over Nate Diaz in back-to-back events are widely regarded as two of his most memorable finishes. How did Clay Guida's fighting style affect his record?
His pressure-oriented, high-volume style led to many decisions and a number of finishes, filling out his record with both competitive bouts and exciting finishes.