Anthony Johnson (fighter)

{{Infobox martial artist

| name = Anthony Johnson

| other_names = Rumble

| image = Anthony johnson MMA.jpg

| image_size = 250

| caption =

| birth_name = Anthony Kewoa Johnson

| birth_date = {{birth date|1984|3|6}}

| birth_place = Dublin, Georgia, U.S.

| death_date = {{death date and age|2022|11|13|1984|3|6}}

| death_place = Laurens County, Georgia, U.S.

| residence =

| nationality =

| height = {{height|ft=6|in=2}}

| weight_lb = 205

| weight_class = Heavyweight (2013)
Light heavyweight (2014–2017, 2021)
Middleweight (2012)
Welterweight (2006–2011)|reach=78 in{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/UFC172/printFightCard|title=Fight Card – UFC 172 Jones vs. Teixeira|publisher=UFC|access-date=May 3, 2014}}

| stance = Orthodox

| style =

| fighting_out_of= Deerfield Beach, Florida, U.S.

| team = Blackzilians (2011–2017){{cite web|url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/may/22/ufc-187-title-hopefuls-belfort-johnson-alliance/ |title=UFC 187 title hopefuls Belfort, Johnson form alliance after fierce fight |first=Case |last=Keefer |date=May 22, 2015 |work=Las Vegas Sun}}
Combat Club (2017–2022){{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2017/09/blackzilians-glenn-robinson-seeks-court-order-henri-hooft-non-compete-violation|title=Glenn Robinsons' JACO gym seeks court order against former Blackzilians coach Henri Hooft|author=Steven Marrocco|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=September 6, 2017}}

| trainer =

| rank =

| wrestling = NJCAA Wrestling{{cite web|url=http://www.njcaa.org/news/NEW%20RECORD%20BOOK/Wrestling_Record_Book_04182011_for_web.pdf |title=Wrestling National Champions - Updated 04/18/2011 |publisher=NJCAA.org |access-date=May 31, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529183520/http://www.njcaa.org/news/NEW%20RECORD%20BOOK/Wrestling_Record_Book_04182011_for_web.pdf |archive-date=May 29, 2012 }}

| years_active = 2006–2017; 2021

| mma_kowin = 17

| mma_subwin =

| mma_decwin = 6

| mma_koloss = 1

| mma_subloss = 5

| mma_decloss =

| mma_draw =

| mma_nc =

| occupation =

| spouse =

| relatives =

| students =

| club =

| url =

| sherdog = 17662

| footnotes =

| updated =

|medaltemplates =

{{MedalCountry | }} Lassen CC

}}

Anthony Kewoa Johnson{{cite web |url=http://www.blackzilians.com/fighters/5/25/Anthony-Johnson.html |title=BlackZilians Fighter Page for Anthony Johnson |access-date=August 19, 2014}} (March 6, 1984 – November 13, 2022) was an American mixed martial artist. He spent most of his career competing for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he was a multiple time title challenger, before ending his career with a single fight with Bellator MMA. He fought in the welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. Johnson had a small acting role as a fighter in a large international mixed martial arts tournament called Sparta in the 2011 film Warrior.{{Cite news |last=Stets |first=Michael |date=July 29, 2013 |title=Anthony Johnson Talks Ray Sefo Fighting at WSOF 4, Being in the Movie 'Warrior' |work=Bleacher Report, Inc. |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1720671-anthony-johnson-talks-ray-sefo-fighting-at-wsof-4-and-being-in-the-movie-warrior}}

He was the number 1 ranked light heavyweight contender in official UFC rankings,{{cite web |url=http://www.ufc.ca/rankings |title=UFC Fighter Rankings |publisher=UFC|access-date=April 28, 2014}} and was ranked number 2 in the world by Sherdog and ESPN, before his retirement in April 2017. Johnson later came out of retirement in May 2021 and won his last fight by knockout.

Early life

Anthony Kewoa Johnson was born in Dublin, Georgia. He was raised by his grandparents who formally adopted him at age 2.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/12914523/anthony-johnson-arduous-road-ufc-title-shot|title=Okamoto: Anthony Johnson's title trek|work=ESPN.com|access-date=March 20, 2017}}{{cite web |url=http://m.ufc.com/news/UFC-Magazine-Anthony-Johnson-Rumble-On |title=Anthony Johnson, Rumble On |work=UFC Magazine |date=July 23, 2014 |access-date=March 16, 2015}} Early in life, his heroes were his grandfather and the football player Walter Payton. He went to West Laurens High School in Laurens County, Georgia, and then attended Lassen College in Susanville, California, on a wrestling scholarship,{{cite web|url=http://411mania.com/mma/411-mma-interview-a-few-rounds-with-anthony-rumble-johnson/ |title=411 MMA Interview: A Few Rounds with Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson |last=Oliver |first=Bren |website=411 Mania |date=April 18, 2008 |access-date=March 16, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715081911/http://411mania.com/mma/411-mma-interview-a-few-rounds-with-anthony-rumble-johnson/ |archive-date=July 15, 2015 }} and became a junior college national wrestling champion. After college, he worked as a bouncer and entered mixed martial arts at age 20, after a friend suggested it due to his wrestling background.{{cite web |url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/anthony-johnson |title=Anthony Johnson |publisher=Ultimate Fighting Championship |access-date=March 16, 2015}}

Mixed martial arts career

=Ultimate Fighting Championship=

Johnson made his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 10, knocking out Chad Reiner thirteen seconds into the first round. He had taken the fight on less than a week's notice, replacing an injured Steve Bruno, who had torn his rotator cuff. He was also seen in a previous video for The Ultimate Fighter trying out for season six, however for undisclosed reasons he was not on the show.

In his next bout, he faced Rich Clementi at UFC 76. He lost the fight via rear-naked choke submission in round two.

After his first professional loss, Johnson then faced Tom Speer at UFC Fight Night: Florian vs. Lauzon.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmatko.com/tom-speer-vs-anthony-johnson-fight-video-ufc-fight-night-13/ |title=Tom Speer Vs Anthony Johnson Fight Video UFC Fight Night 13 |publisher=Mmatko.com |access-date=February 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330180929/http://www.mmatko.com/tom-speer-vs-anthony-johnson-fight-video-ufc-fight-night-13/ |archive-date=March 30, 2012 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} He won the fight via knockout early in round one.

Johnson's next fight was against Kevin Burns, at UFC Fight Night: Silva vs. Irvin aired live on Spike TV on July 19, 2008. Johnson was repeatedly poked in the eyes throughout the bout, with Burns receiving multiple warnings. In round three, Johnson would again be poked in the eye, resulting in a cracked retina that rendered him unable to continue. However, referee Steve Mazzagatti controversially declared Burns the winner via technical knockout.Shnerer, Ariel. The Fight Network [http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news/mma/782/ufc_fight_night_14_suspensions__johnson_appeals "UFC Fight Night 14 Suspensions – Johnson Appeals"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080803024805/http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news/mma/782/ufc_fight_night_14_suspensions__johnson_appeals |date=August 3, 2008 }} Johnson appealed the loss, but it was denied due to a 'lack of remedy'.{{cite web|date=September 12, 2008|title=Exclusive: NSAC Rejects Anthony Johnson's Appeal|url=http://mmafrenzy.com/2008/09/12/exclusive-nsac-rejects-anthony-johnsons-appeal/|access-date=February 7, 2012|publisher=MMAFrenzy.com}}{{cite web|date=July 28, 2008|title=Anthony Johnson Loses Appeal; Loss Via Eye-Pokes Will Stand|url=http://www.cagepotato.com/2008/09/15/anthony-johnson-loses-appeal-loss-via-eye-pokes-will-stand/|access-date=February 7, 2012|publisher=Cagepotato|archive-date=August 24, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090824233122/http://www.cagepotato.com/2008/09/15/anthony-johnson-loses-appeal-loss-via-eye-pokes-will-stand/|url-status=dead}}

Johnson fought Kevin Burns again in a rematch at The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale.{{cite web|last=Goyder |first=James |url=http://mmamania.com/2008/06/17/anthony-johnson-vs-kevin-burns-ufc-fight-night-14-fight-booked/ |title=Anthony Johnson vs Kevin Burns UFC Fight Night 14 fight booked |publisher=MMAmania.com |date=June 17, 2008 |access-date=February 7, 2012}} Johnson won the match by knocking Burns out via head kick.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=7782&zoneid=13 |title=Johnson and Gouveia Impress at TUF 8 Finale |last=Martin |first=Damon |work=MMA Weekly |date=December 13, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091011205954/http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=7782&zoneid=13 |archive-date=October 11, 2009 |access-date=January 25, 2015}} The knockout was awarded "Knockout of The Night" and a $25,000 bonus.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/13473/browning-kaplan-johnson-soszynski-earn-tuf-8-finale-bonuses.mma |title=Browning, Kaplan, Johnson, Soszynski earn $25K TUF 8 Finale bonuses |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |date=December 14, 2008 |access-date=February 7, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026121600/http://mmajunkie.com/news/13473/browning-kaplan-johnson-soszynski-earn-tuf-8-finale-bonuses.mma |archive-date=October 26, 2012 }}

Johnson fought Luigi Fioravanti at UFC Fight Night: Lauzon vs. Stephens on February 7, 2009. He won via technical knockout in the first round.{{cite web | url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2009/01/luigi-fioravanti-vs-anthony-johnson-on-tap-for-ufc-fight-night-17 | title=Luigi Fioravanti vs. Anthony Johnson on tap for UFC Fight Night 17 | date=January 3, 2009 }}

Johnson was scheduled to fight Matt Brown at the TUF 9 Finale, but had to pull out after suffering a knee injury. Johnson instead fought Japanese judoka Yoshiyuki Yoshida at UFC 104. Johnson weighed in at 176 pounds, five pounds over the welterweight non-title bout limit of 171, and was forced to forfeit 20% of his fight purse. Johnson knocked out Yoshida 41 seconds into the first round, but was not eligible for the Knockout of the Night bonus due to missing weight.{{cite news |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/16634/ufc-104s-anthony-johnson-as-soon-as-i-didnt-make-weight-my-life-changed.mma |title=UFC 104's Anthony Johnson: "As soon as I didn't make weight, my life changed. I |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=October 27, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091029221849/http://mmajunkie.com/news/16634/ufc-104s-anthony-johnson-as-soon-as-i-didnt-make-weight-my-life-changed.mma |archive-date=October 29, 2009 |url-status=dead }}

After his fight with Yoshida, Johnson made a quick turnaround and faced Josh Koscheck on November 21, 2009, at UFC 106.{{cite news|url=http://www.fiveknuckles.com/mma-news/Josh-Koscheck-vs-Anthony-Johnson-in-the-works-for-UFC-106.html |title=Josh Koscheck vs. Anthony Johnson in the works for UFC 106 |publisher=fiveknuckles.com |access-date=October 28, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091031095655/http://www.fiveknuckles.com/mma-news/Josh-Koscheck-vs-Anthony-Johnson-in-the-works-for-UFC-106.html |archive-date=October 31, 2009 |url-status=dead }} Both Johnson and Koscheck were awarded Fight of the Night honors for the contest, which saw Koscheck win via rear naked choke.

Johnson was expected to face John Howard on March 21, 2010, at UFC LIVE: Vera vs. Jones,{{cite news |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/17458/anthony-johnson-vs-john-howard-targeted-for-ufc-fight-night-21-main-card.mma |title=Anthony Johnson vs. John Howard targeted for UFC Fight Night 21 main card |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=January 7, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100109182548/http://mmajunkie.com/news/17458/anthony-johnson-vs-john-howard-targeted-for-ufc-fight-night-21-main-card.mma |archive-date=January 9, 2010 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} but had to pull out due to suffering a knee injury in training.{{cite news |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/17943/anthony-johnson-injured-withdraws-from-ufc-on-versus-1-bout-with-john-howard.mma |title=Anthony Johnson injured, withdraws from UFC on Versus 1 bout with John Howard |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=February 15, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324120948/http://mmajunkie.com/news/17943/anthony-johnson-injured-withdraws-from-ufc-on-versus-1-bout-with-john-howard.mma |archive-date=March 24, 2010 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}

After his knee injury, Johnson considered a move to the middleweight division of the UFC.{{cite web|last=Morgan |first=John |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/19272/ufcs-anthony-johnson-and-camp-considering-move-to-middleweight-class.mma |title=UFC's Anthony Johnson and camp considering move to middleweight class |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |date=May 24, 2010 |access-date=February 7, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026121614/http://mmajunkie.com/news/19272/ufcs-anthony-johnson-and-camp-considering-move-to-middleweight-class.mma |archive-date=October 26, 2012 }}

Johnson indicated on the June 4, 2010, episode of Inside MMA that he typically had to lose 55 pounds to make 170. Despite this, Johnson said that although he might have taken a fight at 185, he did not plan to remain there and intended to stay at 170.

Johnson returned to the octagon in early 2011. He faced Dan Hardy on March 26, 2011, at UFC Fight Night 24.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/21857/dan-hardy-vs-anthony-johnson-likely-ufc-fight-night-24-co-headliner.mma |title=Dan Hardy vs. Anthony Johnson likely UFC Fight Night 24 co-headliner |publisher=mmajunkie.com |date=December 26, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101230152750/http://mmajunkie.com/news/21857/dan-hardy-vs-anthony-johnson-likely-ufc-fight-night-24-co-headliner.mma |archive-date=December 30, 2010 }} Johnson used superior wrestling and controlled Hardy to a unanimous decision victory, dropping him with a left head kick in the first round.

Johnson was expected to face Nate Marquardt in what would have been his first main event on June 26, 2011, at UFC on Versus 4 but was forced out of the bout with an injury and replaced by Rick Story.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/23846/anthony-johnson-out-rick-story-steps-in-to-face-nate-marquardt-at-ufc-on-versus-4.mma|title=Anthony Johnson out, Rick Story steps in to face Nate Marquardt at UFC on Versus 4|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=June 2, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605020146/http://mmajunkie.com/news/23846/anthony-johnson-out-rick-story-steps-in-to-face-nate-marquardt-at-ufc-on-versus-4.mma|archive-date=June 5, 2011}}

Johnson went on to face Charlie Brenneman at UFC on Versus 6. He won the fight via first-round KO, earning Knockout of the Night honors.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2011/7/16/2279164/charlie-brenneman-vs-anthony-johnson-fight-booked-for-oct-event|title=Charlie Brenneman vs Anthony Johnson fight booked for UFC on Versus 6 in Oct.|publisher=mmamania.com |date=July 16, 2011}}

For his next fight, Johnson attempted to move up to middleweight to face Vitor Belfort on January 14, 2012, at UFC 142.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/25904/vitor-belfort-vs-anthony-johnson-slated-for-ufc-142-in-brazil.mma |title=Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC 142 in Brazil |publisher=MMAJunkie.com |date=November 1, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104104657/http://mmajunkie.com/news/25904/vitor-belfort-vs-anthony-johnson-slated-for-ufc-142-in-brazil.mma |archive-date=January 4, 2012 }} Leading up to the UFC 142 weigh-ins, doctors advised Johnson to terminate his weight cut and rehydrate. Johnson came in at 197 lb, 11 pounds over the middleweight division limit. The fight remained scheduled under the stipulation that Johnson would not weigh over 205 lb on fight day and would forfeit 20% of his purse to Belfort. On fight day, Johnson officially weighed in at 204.2 lb, and Belfort won via first round submission.{{cite web | url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/26975/anthony-johnson-weighs-204-2-pounds-ufc-142-co-main-event-is-on.mma | title=Anthony Johnson weighs 204.2 pounds, UFC 142 co-main event is on | publisher=MMAJunkie.com | date=January 14, 2012 | access-date=January 14, 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://archive.today/20120712111919/http://mmajunkie.com/news/26975/anthony-johnson-weighs-204-2-pounds-ufc-142-co-main-event-is-on.mma | archive-date=July 12, 2012 | df=mdy-all }} Following the loss, Johnson was released from the promotion for disciplinary reasons due to missing weight yet again.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/26982/anthony-johnson-released-from-ufc.mma |title=UFC releases Anthony Johnson following UFC 142 loss |author=John Morgan |date=January 15, 2012 |publisher=mmajunkie.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120117195942/http://mmajunkie.com/news/26982/anthony-johnson-released-from-ufc.mma |archive-date=January 17, 2012 }}

=Titan Fighting Championships=

After being released from the UFC, Johnson fought fellow UFC veteran David Branch at Titan Fighting Championships 22.{{cite news|url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/anthony-johnson-vs-david-branch-set-as-main-event-for-titan-fighting-22|title=Anthony Johnson vs. David Branch Set as Main Event for Titan Fighting 22|newspaper=Mmaweekly.com | Ufc and Mma News, Results, Rumors, and Videos |date=April 10, 2012|publisher=mmaweekly.com}} On the day of the weigh ins for the fight, Johnson once again missed making the 186 lb limit for the middleweight division, as he weighed in at 194.2 lb, 8.2 lb overweight. Branch was notified the morning of the weigh in that Johnson was not going to make weight, so as a result he weighed in at 189 lb. The bout was then agreed upon as a catchweight bout at 195 lb. This marked the fourth time in Johnson's professional career that he had weighed in over the assigned weight limit. Johnson won the fight via unanimous decision (30–27 on all cards).

Johnson made his light heavyweight debut at Titan Fighting Championships 24 against former King of the Cage Super Heavyweight Champion Esteves Jones, Johnson won via TKO in just 51 seconds of the second round.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2012/7/26/3188976/titan-24-anthony-johnson-esteves-jones-braulio-estima-chris-holland-mma|title=Titan 24 adds Anthony Johnson vs Esteves Jones, Braulio Estima vs Chris Holland for Aug. 24 in Kansas City|date=July 26, 2012|publisher=mmamania.com}}

=Independent promotions=

Johnson fought Jake Rosholt at Xtreme Fight Night 9.{{cite web|url=http://www.cagepotato.com/report-anthony-johnson-will-fight-jake-rosholt-four-weeks-after-his-light-heavyweight-debut/|title=Report: Anthony Johnson Will Fight Jake Rosholt Four Weeks After His Light-Heavyweight Debut|date=July 30, 2012|publisher=cagepotato.com}} Johnson won the fight by TKO due to a head kick in the second round.

=World Series of Fighting=

Johnson faced Bellator veteran D.J. Linderman at WSOF 1 on November 3, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/pressreleases/ANTHONY-JOHNSON-TO-COLLIDE-WITH-DJ-LINDERMAN-AT-INAUGURAL-WORLD-SERIES-OF-FIGHTING-MMA-EVENT-46243|title=Anthony Johnson to Collide with D.J. Linderman at Inaugural World Series of Fighting MMA Event|publisher=sherdog.com|date=October 5, 2012}} He won the fight via KO in the first round.

Johnson fought at heavyweight against Andrei Arlovski on March 23, 2013, at WSOF 2,{{cite web|url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/02/world-series-of-fighting-inks-deal-with-nbc-sports-network-arlovski-vs-johnson|title=World Series of Fighting inks deal with NBC Sports Network, Arlovski vs. Johnson|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=February 4, 2013}} and won via unanimous decision.

Johnson was scheduled to face Strikeforce vet Mike Kyle on September 14, 2013, at WSOF 5. However Johnson was forced out of the bout due to an injury.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Andrei-Arlovski-Replaces-Injured-Anthony-Johnson-Faces-Mike-Kyle-at-WSOF-5-54785|title=Andrei Arlovski Replaces Injured Anthony Johnson, Faces Mike Kyle at WSOF 5|publisher=sherdog.com|date=August 9, 2013}}

Johnson vs. Mike Kyle eventually took place on January 18, 2014, at WSOF 8 in Hollywood, Florida.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/12/wsof-8-slated-for-jan-18-with-gaethje-cavalcante-title-fight-johnson-kyle-bollinger-nam/|title=WSOF 8 slated for Jan. 18 with Gaethje-Cavalcante title fight, Johnson-Kyle, Bollinger-Nam|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=December 3, 2013}} Johnson won the fight via knockout in the first round.{{cite news|url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/wsof-8-fight-highlight-video-anthony-johnson-flattens-mike-kyle|title=WSOF 8 Fight Highlight Video: Anthony Johnson Flattens Mike Kyle|newspaper=Mmaweekly.com | Ufc and Mma News, Results, Rumors, and Videos |publisher=mmaweekly.com|date=January 19, 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2014/1/18/5323806/wsof-8-results-justin-gaethje-jessica-aguilar-wsof-titles-anthony-johnson-ko-mike-kyle|title=WSOF 8 results: Justin Gaethje, Jessica Aguilar seize inaugural titles; Anthony Johnson flattens Mike Kyle|publisher=mmafighting.com|date=January 18, 2014}}

=Return to UFC=

On February 4, 2014, it was announced that Johnson signed a four-fight deal to return to the UFC and would remain a light heavyweight, and he would face top contender Phil Davis on April 27 at UFC 172.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/02/download-or-listen-to-mmajunkie-radio-1655-with-anthony-johnson-sarah-kaufman/|title=Download or listen to MMAjunkie Radio #1655 with Anthony Johnson, Sarah Kaufman|publisher=mmajunkie.com|access-date=February 5, 2014|date=February 4, 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/2/4/5377354/anthony-johnson-returns-to-the-ufc-will-face-phil-davis-at-ufc-172|title=Anthony Johnson returns to the UFC, will face Phil Davis at UFC 172|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|author=Brent Brookhouse|access-date=February 4, 2014|date=February 4, 2014|archive-date=February 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140204182813/http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/2/4/5377354/anthony-johnson-returns-to-the-ufc-will-face-phil-davis-at-ufc-172|url-status=dead}}

Despite being a nearly 3-to-1 underdog, Johnson was successful in his return, defeating Davis via unanimous decision after defending all of Davis' takedown attempts and dominating all three rounds on the feet.{{cite web | url=http://www.fightofthenight.com/news/anthony-johnson-dominates-phil-davis-at-ufc-172 | title=Anthony Johnson Dominates Phil Davis At UFC 172 | publisher=Fight of the Night | date=April 26, 2014 | access-date=April 27, 2014 | author=Cole, Ross}}

Johnson next faced Antônio Rogério Nogueira in the co-main event on July 26, 2014, at UFC on Fox 12.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/05/anthony-johnson-vs-antonio-rogerio-nogueira-slated-for-ufc-on-fox-12|title=Anthony Johnson vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira slated for UFC on FOX 12|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|access-date=May 8, 2014|date=May 8, 2014}}{{cite web | url=http://www.fightofthenight.com/news/anthony-johnson-vs-antonio-rogerio-nogueira-set-for-ufc-on-fox-12 | title=Anthony Johnson Vs Antonio Rogerio Nogueira Set For UFC On FOX 12 | publisher=Fight of the Night | date=May 8, 2014 | access-date=May 13, 2014 | author=Cole, Ross}} He won the fight via KO at just 44 seconds into the first round.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/07/ufc-on-fox-12-results-photos-anthony-johnson-destroys-antonio-rogerio-nogueira|title=UFC on FOX 12 results, photos: Anthony Johnson destroys Antonio Rogerio Nogueira |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |author=Steven Marrocco|date=July 26, 2014}} The win also earned Johnson his first Performance of the Night bonus award.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/07/ufc-on-fox-12-bonuses-lawler-brown-johnson-bermudez-win-50000|title=UFC on FOX 12 bonuses: Lawler, Brown, Johnson, Bermudez win $50,000|author=Staff|publisher=mmajunkie.com|access-date=July 26, 2014|date=July 26, 2014}}

==Suspension from UFC and return==

On September 19, 2014, news surfaced about Johnson being suspected of domestic violence against the mother of his two children.{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/9/19/6557109/ufc-anthony-rumble-johnsons-ex-restraining-order-domestic-violence|title=Mother of Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson's children gets restraining order, tells police of threats and history of abuse|author=Brent Brookhouse|date=Sep 19, 2014|publisher=bloodyelbow.com}} Soon after, Johnson claimed to be innocent.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2014/9/20/6645429/ufc-anthony-rumble-johnson-apologizes-meltdown-insists-innocent-domestic-violence-mma|title=UFC's Anthony Johnson apologizes for meltdown, but insists he's innocent following domestic violence allegations|author=Jesse Holland|publisher=mmamania.com|date=September 20, 2014}} Due to the suspicion, UFC released a statement that Johnson was being indefinitely suspended until the case was investigated.{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-statement-anthony-johnson|title=UFC statement on Anthony Johnson|date=September 19, 2014|publisher=UFC}} On November 6, 2014, the UFC lifted Johnson's suspension after the civil case was dismissed, clearing him to fight.[http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2014/11/6/7170651/mma-news-ufc-ends-anthony-johnsons-suspension-civil-case-domestic-violence "UFC ends Anthony Johnson's suspension after civil case is dismissed"]. Bloody Elbow. November 6, 2014

Johnson fought Alexander Gustafsson on January 24, 2015, at UFC on Fox 14 with the promise that the winner would earn a title shot against Jon Jones.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/11/alexander-gustafsson-vs-anthony-johnson-slated-for-ufc-on-fox-14-in-sweden|title=Alexander Gustafsson vs. Anthony Johnson slated for UFC on FOX 14 in Sweden|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|date=November 12, 2014|access-date=November 12, 2014}} Johnson won the one-sided bout via TKO in the first round, becoming the first to stop Gustafsson due to strikes.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/eye-on-sports/24990267/anthony-johnson-tkos-alexander-gustafsson-at-ufc-stockholm|title=Anthony Johnson TKOs Alexander Gustafsson at UFC Stockholm|publisher=cbssports.com|author=Brandon Wise|date=January 24, 2015|access-date=January 25, 2015}} The win also earned Johnson his second Performance of the Night bonus award.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/01/ufc-on-fox-14-bonuses-who-joined-rumble-johnson-in-getting-50000-richer|title=UFC on FOX 14 bonuses: Who joined 'Rumble' Johnson in getting $50,000 richer?|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=January 24, 2015}}

Johnson was expected to face Jon Jones on May 23, 2015, at UFC 187.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/02/jones-johnson-weidman-belfort-cerrone-nurmagomedov-top-ufc-187-in-may|title=Jones-Johnson, Weidman-Belfort, Cerrone-Nurmagomedov top UFC 187 in May|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=February 19, 2015|date=February 19, 2015}} However, on April 28, it was announced that Jones had been stripped of the UFC Light heavyweight title and suspended indefinitely due to a felony hit-and-run charge. Johnson faced Daniel Cormier for the vacant UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Early in the first round, Johnson became the first man to knock down Cormier, but failed to get the finish. Cormier eventually won the fight via rear naked-choke submission in round three.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2015/4/28/8512255/jon-jones-stripped-of-title-daniel-cormier-vs-anthony-johnson-for|title=Jon Jones stripped of title, Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson for belt headlines UFC 187|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Marc Raimondi|date=April 28, 2015|access-date=April 28, 2015}}

Johnson was expected to face Jan Błachowicz on September 5, 2015, at UFC 191.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2015/7/16/8975921/anthony-johnson-next-fight-jan-blachowicz-ufc-191-light-heavyweight-mma|title=Anthony Johnson's next fight set against Jan Blachowicz at UFC 191 on Sept. 5|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Thomas Myers|date=July 16, 2015|access-date=July 16, 2015}} However, Johnson was pulled from the bout on July 30 in favor of a fight with Jimi Manuwa at the event instead.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/ufc-anthony-johnson-now-faces-jimi-manuwa-at-ufc-191-in-las-vegas-073015|title=Anthony Johnson now faces Jimi Manuwa at UFC 191 in Las Vegas|work=foxsports.com|author=Damon Martin|date=July 30, 2015|access-date=July 30, 2015}} After dominating the first round with his wrestling, Johnson won via knockout early in the second round.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/09/ufc-191-results-anthony-johnson-drills-jimi-manuwa-for-second-round-knockout|title=UFC 191 results: Anthony Johnson drills Jimi Manuwa for second-round knockout|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Steven Marrocco|date=September 5, 2015|access-date=September 5, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-191-Bonuses-John-Lineker-Francisco-Rivera-Garner-3650K-for-Wild-Slugfest-91829|title=UFC 191 Bonuses: John Lineker, Francisco Rivera garner $50K for wild slugfest|publisher=sherdog.com|author=Tristen Critchfield|access-date=September 5, 2015|date=September 5, 2015}}

Johnson next faced Ryan Bader on January 30, 2016, at UFC on Fox 18.{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/news/UFC-Returns-to-Newark-for-FOX-Show-in-Jan|title=UFC Returns to Newark for FOX Show in Jan.|publisher=UFC|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=November 4, 2015|access-date=November 4, 2015}} Bader went for a takedown almost immediately, which Johnson defended. Bader then threatened a kimura off his back, but Johnson again defended it before moving to mount and winning via knockout.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/01/ufc-on-fox-18-results-anthony-johnson-powers-through-ryan-bader-in-quick-fashion|title=UFC on FOX 18 results: Anthony Johnson powers through Ryan Bader in quick fashion|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=John Morgan|access-date=January 30, 2016|date=January 30, 2016}} The win also earned Johnson his fourth Performance of the Night bonus award.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/01/ufc-on-fox-18-bonuses-jimmie-rivera-iuri-alcantara-cash-in-for-the-evenings-fight-of-the-night|title=UFC on FOX 18 bonuses: Jimmie Rivera, Iuri Alcantara cash in for 'Fight of the Night'|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=January 30, 2016|date=January 30, 2016}}

Johnson was expected to face Glover Teixeira on July 23, 2016, at UFC on Fox 20, but was pulled from the card due to undisclosed reasons.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/ufc-anthony-rumble-johnson-vs-glover-teixeira-co-main-event-fox-chicago-050516|title=Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson vs. Glover Teixeira set as co-main event in Chicago|work=foxsports.com|author=Damon Martin|access-date=May 5, 2016|date=May 5, 2016}} The bout was rescheduled and eventually took place at UFC 202.{{cite web|last1=Morgan|first1=John|title=UFC 202 adds Anthony Johnson vs. Glover Teixeira, Donald Cerrone vs. Rick Story|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/06/ufc-202-adds-anthony-johnson-vs-glover-teixeira-donald-cerrone-vs-rick-story|website=MMA Junkie|date=June 28, 2016|access-date=June 28, 2016}} Johnson defeated Teixeira by knockout 13 seconds into the first round and was awarded his fifth Performance of the Night bonus.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/ufc-202-anthony-johnson-rocks-glover-teixeiras-world-with-13-second-knockout/|title=UFC 202: Anthony Johnson rocks Glover Teixeira's world with 13-second knockout|publisher=cbssports.com|author=Brandon Wise|access-date=August 20, 2016|date=August 20, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-202-Bonuses-McGregor-Diaz-Johnson-Cerrone-Receive-3650K-Awards-110081|title=UFC 202 bonuses: McGregor, Diaz, Johnson, Cerrone receive $50K awards|publisher=sherdog.com|author=Tristen Critchfield|access-date=August 20, 2016|date=August 20, 2016}}

A rematch with champion Daniel Cormier was expected to take place on December 10, 2016, at UFC 206.{{cite news|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2016/10/5/13179942/daniel-cormier-vs-anthony-johnson-rematch-set-for-ufc-206|title=Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson rematch set for UFC 206|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Dave Doyle|date=October 5, 2016|access-date=October 5, 2016}} However, Cormier pulled out of the fight on November 25 citing an injury and as a result, Johnson was removed from the card.{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/18134950/daniel-cormier-withdraws-ufc-206-fight-vs-anthony-johnson|title=Daniel Cormier withdraws from UFC 206 fight vs. Anthony Johnson|work=espn.com|author=Brett Okamoto|access-date=November 26, 2016|date=November 26, 2016}} The pairing was rescheduled again and eventually took place on April 8, 2017, at UFC 210.{{cite web |url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/daniel-cormier-vs-anthony-johnson-2-set-for-ufc-210-in-buffalo-012517|title=Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson 2 set for UFC 210 in Buffalo|author=Damon Martin|work=foxsports.com|date=January 25, 2017|access-date=January 25, 2017}} Johnson decided to use his wrestling as his main offense, a decision which frustrated his corner, and led to him becoming fatigued and losing the fight via rear naked choke submission in the second round. After the fight, Johnson announced his retirement from the UFC and combat sports effective immediately.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/04/ufc-210-results-daniel-cormier-submits-anthony-johnson-again-to-retain-light-heavyweight-title|title=UFC 210 results: Champ Daniel Cormier submits Anthony Johnson again, thrives as villain|author=Steven Marrocco|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=April 9, 2017|access-date=April 9, 2017}}{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/04/no-longer-rumble-anthony-johnson-posts-farewell-retirement-message-following-ufc-210|title=No longer 'Rumble,' Anthony Johnson posts farewell retirement message following UFC 210|author=Staff|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=April 10, 2017|access-date=April 10, 2017}}

In 2017, Johnson switched to Combat Sports, an open gym club, and CSMMA after Blackzilians ceased operations across the Florida area.{{Citation|last=UFC - Ultimate Fighting Championship|title=UFC 210 Countdown: Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson|date=April 2, 2017|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=te3AakFySgA|access-date=April 3, 2017}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead YouTube link|date=February 2022}}

In August 2019, 2 years after initially announcing his retirement, Johnson confirmed that he would be re-entering the USADA testing pool. Despite initial claims about moving up to heavyweight, Johnson eventually decided to stay in the light heavyweight division.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/8/18/21374264/anthony-rumble-johnson-explains-coming-back-to-ufc-being-against-fighters-returning-from-retirement|title=Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson explains coming back to UFC after being against fighters returning from retirement|author=Damon Martin|publisher=mmafighting.com|date=August 18, 2020}} In October 2019, Johnson confirmed he was in talks with the UFC brass to come back as part of the heavyweight division and would like to return in April 2020.{{cite web|url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/platform/amp/2019/10/8/20905814/ufc-anthony-johnson-return-april-usada-testing-pool-heavyweight-mma-news|title=Anthony Johnson wants UFC return in April, but isn't in USADA testing pool yet|work=BloodyElbow.com|date=October 8, 2019|access-date=October 10, 2019}} However, he eventually entered the testing pool in late August 2020, and would have been eligible to compete in February 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2020/8/25/21401730/anthony-johnson-eligible-fight-february-2021-re-entering-usada-drug-testing-pool-ufc-mma|title=Anthony Johnson eligible for UFC return in early 2021 after officially re-entering USADA drug testing pool |author=Adam Guillen Jr.|publisher=mmamania.com|date=August 25, 2020}}

= Bellator MMA =

On December 9, 2020, it was announced that Johnson had parted ways with the UFC and had signed a multi-fight contract with Bellator MMA.{{cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/anthony-rumble-johnson-agrees-to-terms-with-bellator-mma-after-parting-ways-with-ufc/|title=Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson agrees to terms with Bellator MMA after parting ways with UFC|author=Brian Campbell|publisher=cbssports.com|date=December 9, 2020}}

On February 9, 2021, it was announced that Johnson would be participating in the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Tournament. He was scheduled to face Yoel Romero in the quarterfinal round at Bellator 257 on April 16{{cite web|url=https://www.mmajunkie.com/2021/02/bellator-light-heavyweight-grand-prix-features-rumble-vs-romero/amp|author=Simon Somano|title=Bellator announces 8-man light heavyweight grand prix featuring 'Rumble' vs. Romero|work=MMA Junkie|date=February 9, 2021|accessdate=February 9, 2021}} but on March 26, it was announced that the bout would be moved to Bellator 258 on May 7.{{cite web |last1=Lee |first1=Alexander K. |title=Anthony Johnson vs. Yoel Romero moved to Bellator 258 amid light heavyweight grand prix schedule shift |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/3/26/22352917/anthony-johnson-vs-yoel-romero-moved-bellator-258-amid-light-heavyweight-grand-prix-schedule-shift |website=MMA Fighting |access-date=26 March 2021 |language=en |date=26 March 2021}} On April 29, it was announced that Yoel had failed his pre-fight medical exam and the bout was scrapped and Romero was removed from the tournament.{{Cite web|title=Yoel Romero out of Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix after failing pre-fight medical screening|url=https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/yoel-romero-out-of-bellator-light-heavyweight-world-grand-prix-after-failing-pre-fight-medical-screening/|access-date=2021-04-30|website=CBSSports.com|date=April 30, 2021 |language=en}} The next day, it was announced that Jose Augusto would replace Yoel in the bout and the Grand Prix.{{Cite web|date=2021-04-30|title=Anthony Johnson gets replacement opponent for Bellator 258 grand prix bout|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/04/bellator-258-anthony-johnson-replacement-opponent-yoel-romero-grand-prix-jose-augusto|access-date=2021-05-01|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}} After surviving being dropped in the first round, Johnson won via knockout in the second round.{{Cite web|last=Anderson|first=Jay|date=2021-05-07|title=Bellator 258 Results: Anthony Johnson Survives Early Scare, KO's Jose Augusto|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2021/05/07/bellator-258-results-anthony-johnson-vs-jose-augusto/|access-date=2021-05-08|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}}

In the semi-finals of the Grand Prix, Johnson was scheduled to face the champion Vadim Nemkov, with the Bellator Light Heavyweight Championship on the line, on October 16, 2021, at Bellator 268.{{Cite web|title=Vadim Nemkov vs. Anthony Johnson, Ryan Bader vs. Corey Anderson set for Oct. 16 in Phoenix|url=https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/vadim-nemkov-vs-anthony-johnson-ryan-bader-vs-corey-anderson-set-for-oct-16-in-phoenix/|access-date=2021-08-01|website=CBSSports.com|date=July 31, 2021 |language=en}} On September 18, it was announced that Anthony Johnson was forced to pull out of the bout and the tournament due to an unspecified illness. Johnson was hopeful to return to action in 2022.{{Cite web|date=2021-09-18|title=Anthony Johnson has 'never been this afraid of anything in my life' as non-COVID illness pauses career|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/09/mma-news-anthony-johnson-afraid-illness-dig-deep-non-covid-pause-career-title-fight-vadim-nemkov|access-date=2021-09-18|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}}

Personal life and death

After martial arts competition, Johnson launched a CBD oil company, Competitive Body Development. In early 2019, Johnson was appointed as the head of fighter relations for Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.{{cite news|url=https://www.mmaweekly.com/anthony-rumble-johnson-at-peace-in-retirement-excited-for-new-role-at-bkfc|title=Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson 'at peace' in retirement, excited for new role at BKFC|author=Damon Martin|newspaper=Mmaweekly.com | Ufc and Mma News, Results, Rumors, and Videos |publisher=mmaweekly.com|date=April 2, 2019}}

Johnson was suffering from a form of cancer known as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, an auto-immune disease. He died of organ failure on November 13, 2022.{{Cite web |date=2022-11-13 |title=Former UFC title challenger Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson dead at 38; MMA community mourns |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-news-anthony-rumble-johnson-died-mma-community-mourns |access-date=2022-11-13 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}

Legal trouble

=Domestic violence charges and accusations=

In 2010, Johnson was convicted of a 2009 domestic battery charge after pleading no contest. He was sentenced to serve three years of probation. He was also charged with making criminal threats and property damage for allegedly breaking the victim's cell phone, but those charges were dropped.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/platform/amp/2014/9/25/6837283/anthony-rumble-johnson-ufc-domestic-violence|title=Police reports detail another domestic violence allegation against Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson|work=BloodyElbow.com|date=September 25, 2014}}

In March 2014, Johnson was accused of domestic abuse in Arkansas towards his ex-girlfriend and mother of his children. A police report that was revealed to the public in September 2014 included statements from Johnson's ex in which she alleged Johnson came to her work, physically approached her, grabbed her shirt behind the neck and lifted her up from the chair on which she was sitting. She continued by saying that Johnson then grabbed her right arm and forcefully pulled on it several times to pull her closer to him, and that he verbally abused her in front of several coworkers. The police report also stated that the girlfriend had visible bruising on her arm and scratches near her collarbone. Police said that Johnson's girlfriend was crying and shaking while giving her side of what happened. No charges were filed.

Johnson was arrested on May 5, 2019, in Boca Raton, Florida after an incident with his girlfriend. Johnson's girlfriend alleged that during an argument, Johnson became angry, picked her up, and carried her into another room. Stating that she was fearful for her safety, Johnson's girlfriend then called 911. Police officers arrived and placed Johnson under arrest and took him to the Palm Beach County jail, where he was booked on charges of domestic battery (by law, any act of non-consensual touching could be considered battery). Johnson was released hours later on recognizance, meaning he signed a court order promising to show up for future court dates.{{cite web|url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/platform/amp/2019/5/7/18535304/anthony-johnson-former-ufc-fighter-rumble-johnson-charged-with-domestic-battery-mma-crime-news|title=Former UFC fighter Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson charged with domestic battery|work=bloodyelbow.com|date=May 7, 2019|access-date=May 7, 2019}} At his arraignment on May 15, Johnson pleaded not guilty.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmajunkie.com/2019/05/ex-ufc-fighter-anthony-johnson-pleads-not-guilty-domestic-violence/amp|title=Ex-UFC fighter Anthony Johnson pleads not guilty; attorney scoffs at domestic violence charge|work=MMAJunkie.com|date=May 15, 2019|access-date=May 23, 2019}} The case was ultimately dismissed, with the charges against Johnson being dropped when he reached a joint agreement with the prosecutors by agreeing to attend an anger management course. In addition, he was required to attend biweekly drug testing due to testing positive for marijuana, thus neglecting his bail conditions.{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/08/reports-anthony-johnson-plea-deal-battery-ufc-return|title=Reports: Anthony Johnson cops plea on battery case, plans UFC return|author=Steven Marrocco|publisher=mmafighting.com|date=August 27, 2019}}

=Other legal issues=

On May 11, 2021, Johnson was arrested in Fairfield County, Connecticut and charged with identity theft after allegedly using a stolen credit card to pay for a flight from Newark, New Jersey to Fort Lauderdale, Florida in November 2019. Johnson was released on $500 bond.{{cite web|url=https://dailyvoice.com/connecticut/greenwich/police-fire/man-nabbed-for-id-theft-in-fairfield-county-police-say/808643/|title=Man Nabbed For ID Theft In Fairfield County, Police Say|work=Daily Voice|author=Zak Failla|date=May 11, 2021|accessdate=May 11, 2021}}

Championships and achievements

=Amateur wrestling=

National Junior College Athletic Association
Junior College National Champion 174 lb – out of Lassen Community College (2004)

=Mixed martial arts=

Ultimate Fighting Championship
Fight of the Night (One time) {{small|vs. Josh Koscheck}}
Knockout of the Night (Two times) {{small|vs. Kevin Burns and Charlie Brenneman}}
Performance of the Night (Five times) {{small|vs. Antônio Rogério Nogueira, Alexander Gustafsson, Jimi Manuwa, Ryan Bader and Glover Teixeira}}
Tied (Anderson Silva, Thiago Santos, Dustin Poirier & Max Holloway) for fourth most knockouts in UFC history (11){{cite web |url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/|title=UFC - Career Stats|publisher=UFC |access-date=May 8, 2023|date=May 8, 2023}}
UFC.com Awards
2008: Ranked #3 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Kevin Burns}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/highly-unofficial-2008-ufc-awards-knockouts|title=The Highly Unofficial 2008 UFC Awards - The Knockouts|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 28, 2008|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
2011: Ranked #10 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Charlie Brenneman}} {{small|(Tied with Wanderlei Silva)}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-2011-knockout-year|title=Ten Best - 2011 Knockout of the Year|date=January 6, 2012|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
2016: Ranked #2 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Glover Teixeira}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/top-10-best-knockouts-2016|title=Top Ten - The Best Knockouts of 2016|date=December 21, 2016|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}

Mixed martial arts record

{{MMArecordbox

|ko-wins=17

|ko-losses=1

|sub-wins=0

|sub-losses=5

|dec-wins=6

|dec-losses=0

|nc=

}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 23–6

|José Augusto Azevedo

|KO (punch)

|Bellator 258

|{{dts|2021|May|7}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|1:30

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{small|Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Quarterfinal. Later withdrew from tournament due to illness.}}

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|22–6

|Daniel Cormier

|Submission (rear-naked choke)

|UFC 210

|{{dts|2017|April|8|format=mdy}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|3:37

|Buffalo, New York, United States

|{{small|For the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|22–5

|Glover Teixeira

| KO (punch)

|UFC 202

|{{dts|2016|August|20|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:13

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|21–5

|Ryan Bader

|KO (punches)

|UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Bader

|{{dts|2016|January|30|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:26

|Newark, New Jersey, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center|20–5

|Jimi Manuwa

|KO (punches)

|UFC 191

|{{dts|2015|September|05|format=mdy}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|0:28

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center|19–5

|Daniel Cormier

|Submission (rear-naked choke)

|UFC 187

|{{dts|2015|May|23|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|2:39

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|For the vacant UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

| align=center| 19–4

| Alexander Gustafsson

| TKO (punches)

| UFC on Fox: Gustafsson vs. Johnson

| {{dts|2015|January|24|format=mdy}}

| align=center|1

| align=center|2:15

| Stockholm, Sweden

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

| align=center| 18–4

| Antônio Rogério Nogueira

| KO (punches)

| UFC on Fox: Lawler vs. Brown

| {{dts|2014|July|26|format=mdy}}

| align=center|1

| align=center|0:44

| San Jose, California, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 17–4

| Phil Davis

| Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 172

|{{dts|2014|April|26|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

|Baltimore, Maryland, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 16–4

| Mike Kyle

| KO (punches)

|WSOF 8

|{{dts|2014|January|18|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 2:03

|Hollywood, Florida, United States

|{{small|Return to Light Heavyweight.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 15–4

| Andrei Arlovski

| Decision (unanimous)

|WSOF 2

| {{dts|2013|March|23|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Atlantic City, New Jersey United States

|{{small|Heavyweight debut.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 14–4

| D.J. Linderman

| KO (punch)

|WSOF 1

| {{dts|2012|November|3|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 3:58

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 13–4

| Jake Rosholt

| TKO (head kick)

|Xtreme Fight Night 9

| {{dts|2012|September|21|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 4:22

| Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 12–4

| Esteves Jones

| TKO (punches)

|Titan Fighting Championships 24

| {{dts|2012|August|24|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 0:51

| Kansas City, Kansas, United States

| {{small|Light Heavyweight debut.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 11–4

| David Branch

| Decision (unanimous)

|Titan Fighting Championships 22

| {{dts|2012|May|25|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Kansas City, Kansas, United States

| {{small|Catchweight (195 lb) bout; both fighters missed weight.}}

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 10–4

| Vitor Belfort

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

|UFC 142

| {{dts|2012|January|14|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 4:49

| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

| {{small|Middleweight debut; Johnson missed weight (197 lbs).}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 10–3

| Charlie Brenneman

| KO (head kick)

| UFC Live: Cruz vs. Johnson

| {{dts|2011|October|1|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 2:49

| Washington, D.C., United States

|{{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 9–3

| Dan Hardy

| Decision (unanimous)

| UFC Fight Night: Nogueira vs. Davis

| {{dts|2011|March|26|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Seattle, Washington, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 8–3

| Josh Koscheck

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

| UFC 106

| {{dts|2009|November|21|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 4:47

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 8–2

| Yoshiyuki Yoshida

| TKO (punches)

| UFC 104

| {{dts|2009|October|24|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 0:41

| Los Angeles, California, United States

| {{small|Catchweight (176 lb) bout; Johnson missed weight.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 7–2

| Luigi Fioravanti

| TKO (punches)

| UFC Fight Night: Lauzon vs. Stephens

| {{dts|2009|February|7|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 4:39

| Tampa, Florida, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 6–2

| Kevin Burns

| KO (head kick)

| The Ultimate Fighter: Team Nogueira vs. Team Mir Finale

| {{dts|2008|December|13|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 0:28

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 5–2

| Kevin Burns

| TKO (eye injury)

| UFC Fight Night: Silva vs. Irvin

| {{dts|2008|July|19|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 3:35

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Johnson appealed for the result to be overturned due to the injury being caused by repeated eye pokes, but the appeal was rejected by the NSAC.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2008/09/anthony-johnson-fails-in-attempt-to-have-kevin-burns-result-overturned|title = Anthony Johnson fails in attempt to have Kevin Burns result overturned|date = September 14, 2008}}}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 5–1

| Tom Speer

| KO (punches)

| UFC Fight Night: Florian vs. Lauzon

| {{dts|2008|April|2|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 0:51

| Broomfield, Colorado, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 4–1

| Rich Clementi

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

| UFC 76

| {{dts|2007|September|22|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 3:05

| Anaheim, California, United States

| {{small|Catchweight (177 lb) bout; Johnson missed weight.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 4–0

| Chad Reiner

| KO (punches)

| UFC Fight Night: Stout vs. Fisher

| {{dts|2007|June|12|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 0:13

| Hollywood, Florida, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 3–0

| Keith Wilson

| Decision (majority)

| Rocky Mountain Nationals: Demolition

| {{dts|2006|September|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 5:00

| Denver, Colorado, United States

|{{small|Won the RMN Welterweight Tournament.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 2–0

| Rich Moskowitz

| Decision (unanimous)

| Rocky Mountain Nationals: Demolition

| {{dts|2006|September|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 5:00

| Denver, Colorado, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 1–0

| Jonathan Romero

| TKO (punches)

| PF 2: Live MMA

| {{dts|2006|August|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 1:09

| Hollywood, California, United States

Pay-per-view bouts

class="wikitable"

!No.

!Event

!Fight

!Date

!Venue

!City

!PPV Buys

|UFC 187

|Johnson vs. Cormier

|May 23, 2015

|MGM Grand Garden Arena

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|375,000{{Cite web |title=UFC 187: Johnson vs. Cormier {{!}} MMA Event |url=https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/events/29455-ufc-187-aldo-vs-mcgregor |access-date=2022-09-13 |website=Tapology |language=en}}

|UFC 210

|Cormier vs. Johnson 2

|April 8, 2017

|KeyBank Center

|Buffalo, New York, United States

|300,000{{Cite web |title=UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2 {{!}} MMA Event |url=https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/events/43812-ufc-210 |access-date=2022-09-13 |website=Tapology |language=en}}