First, a run-down of the particulars:

Inception of the championship occured on 10/14/1993, the first match-up between 1-0 fighters that took place within this division.

Vacancies after inactivity periods were fulfilled by the next “top contender” match. Absence of such, was not a problem at Heavyweight.

Your current lineal Heavyweight champion is Stipe Miocic

The full history is below. Note, the colored backgrounds indicate a title change.

MMA Heavyweight Lineal Championship History