Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a sport that has captivated audiences around the world with its raw intensity and unparalleled display of skill and athleticism. At the forefront of MMA stands the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the premier organization that has showcased some of the most thrilling and unforgettable fights in the history of the sport. In this article, we will explore the top 10 greatest fights in UFC history, where fighters pushed themselves to the limits and left an indelible mark on the sport.
1. Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar (The Ultimate Fighter 1 Finale, 2005)
Often hailed as the fight that saved the UFC, Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar put on an unbelievable display of heart and determination in the finale of the inaugural season of "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show. This three-round war showcased the essence of MMA and instantly won over a legion of new fans.
2. Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson (UFC 165, 2013)
This light heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson is widely regarded as one of the greatest battles in UFC history. The back-and-forth action and the incredible resilience shown by both fighters left the crowd in awe. Jones ultimately emerged victorious in a hard-fought unanimous decision.
3. Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen (UFC 117, 2010)
In one of the most memorable middleweight championship fights, Anderson Silva faced off against Chael Sonnen. Sonnen dominated Silva for almost five rounds, but "The Spider" pulled off a miraculous comeback in the closing moments of the fight, securing a triangle armbar submission to retain his title.
4. Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald (UFC 189, 2015)
Robbie Lawler and Rory MacDonald engaged in an all-out war for the welterweight title in what has been described as a true display of grit and determination. Both fighters pushed each other to the brink of exhaustion, with Lawler eventually securing a fifth-round TKO victory.
5. Dan Henderson vs. Mauricio Rua (UFC 139, 2011)
This light heavyweight clash between Dan Henderson and Mauricio "Shogun" Rua is often referred to as the greatest fight in UFC history. For five grueling rounds, both fighters engaged in an epic back-and-forth battle, showcasing their incredible durability and heart. Henderson emerged victorious by unanimous decision in a fight that will forever be etched in MMA lore.
6. Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard II (UFC 125, 2011)
Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard's second encounter for the lightweight title was nothing short of a classic. Maynard came out strong, nearly finishing Edgar in the first round. However, Edgar showed remarkable resilience and battled back, resulting in a thrilling draw that left fans eagerly anticipating a third fight.
7. Chuck Liddell vs. Wanderlei Silva (UFC 79, 2007)
The clash between Chuck Liddell and Wanderlei Silva, two legendary knockout artists, was a dream matchup for MMA fans. This light heavyweight bout lived up to the hype, with both fighters engaging in a fierce back-and-forth battle. Liddell ultimately emerged victorious by unanimous decision in a fight that will be remembered as an iconic moment in MMA history.
8. Diego Sanchez vs. Gilbert Melendez (UFC 166, 2013)
Diego Sanchez and Gilbert Melendez put on a fight for the ages in this lightweight showdown. The pace was relentless, with both fighters refusing to back down. The three-round war showcased their incredible endurance and warrior spirit, with Melendez ultimately earning a hard-fought unanimous decision victory.
9. Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier II (UFC 214, 2017)
The intense rivalry between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier reached its peak in their second encounter. Jones, returning from a suspension, displayed his unparalleled skills and reclaimed the light heavyweight title with a stunning third-round knockout. This fight solidified Jones' status as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.
10. Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz II (UFC 202, 2016)
The rematch between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz was a highly anticipated clash that exceeded all expectations. After Diaz submitted McGregor in their first encounter, the Irishman sought redemption. The fight was a brutal back-and-forth war, with both fighters displaying their heart and determination. McGregor ultimately secured a majority decision victory, solidifying his place as one of the biggest stars in UFC history.
The UFC has provided fans with countless memorable moments and incredible fights throughout its history. From the early days to the present, these top 10 fights stand out as some of the greatest displays of skill, heart, and determination in the sport of MMA. These battles have left an indelible mark on the UFC and continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
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