Cody Garbrandt Fight History: A Timeline of Triumphs and Setbacks

When fans talk about the Former Bantamweight champion who burst onto the UFC scene with explosive power, the name Cody Garbrandt is instantly recognizable. From his early days on the regional circuit to headline‑grabbing bouts in the Octagon, Garbrandt’s career is a study in rapid ascent, fierce competition, and the inevitable challenges that come with elite‑level sport.

The Early Years and the Rise

Garbrandt began his professional MMA journey in 2012, quickly establishing a reputation for knockout power and relentless pace. By the time he was at just 25 years old, he had already amassed a string of impressive victories that caught the attention of UFC scouts. His debut in the promotion came at UFC 173 in May 2014, where he secured a first‑round TKO against John Lineker, signaling that a new contender had arrived.

The Rise and Fall Of a Bantamweight Contender

After a series of dominant performances, Garbrandt earned a title shot against then‑champion Dominick Cruz at UFC 207. The bout was a showcase of Garbrandt’s striking accuracy; he captured the belt with a second‑round knockout, cementing his place among the sport’s elite. However, the reign was short‑lived. A rematch with Cruz at UFC 227 resulted in a unanimous decision loss, and subsequent defeats to top‑tier opponents highlighted the thin line between champion and challenger in the bantamweight division.

UFC 217 – The Classic Rematch

One of the most talked‑about moments in Garbrandt’s fight history took place on November 4th, 2017, at UFC 217. The event featured a highly anticipated showdown between two UFC legends: TJ Dillashaw and Cody Garbrandt. Both fighters had previously exchanged victories, and the rivalry was framed as a clash of styles—Dillashaw’s technical precision versus Garbrandt’s raw power. Rewatch the full fight to see how Garbrandt’s aggressive approach ultimately fell short, as Dillashaw secured a fifth‑round TKO to retain the title.

Notable Wins and Losses