UFC 1: The Beginning (1993): cast, story & where to watch
1993 · Film · ★ 7.7
Released in 1993, UFC 1: The Beginning is an action film, running about 88 minutes. “There Are No Rules!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. UFC 1 used an eight-man tournament format, with the winner receiving $50,000. The tournament featured fights with no weight classes or judges. The two rules, no biting or eye gouging, were to be enforced only by a $1,500 fine. The match only ended by submission, knockout, or the fighter's corner throwing in the towel. Gloves were allowed, as Art Jimmerson showed in his Quarterfinal bout against Royce Gracie, which he fought with one boxing glove. Fights consisted of unlimited 5 minute rounds until a winner was decided.
Who’s in it. UFC 1: The Beginning stars Royce Gracie as Himself, Gerard Gordeau as Himself, Ken Kilpatrick as Self and Kevin Rosier as Himself, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 7.7/10, UFC 1: The Beginning has been warmly received by audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch UFC 1: The Beginning page.
If you liked it. Fans of UFC 1: The Beginning tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch UFC 1: The Beginning (1993)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for UFC 1: The Beginning change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is UFC 1: The Beginning worth watching?
- UFC 1: The Beginning holds an audience score of 7.7 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy action. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in UFC 1: The Beginning?
- UFC 1: The Beginning stars Royce Gracie, Gerard Gordeau, Ken Kilpatrick, Kevin Rosier and Patrick Smith.
- When was UFC 1: The Beginning released?
- UFC 1: The Beginning was released in 1993, with a runtime of about 88 minutes.