5. Vinicius Oliveira vs. Bernardo Sopaj - UFC Fight Night 238
Vinicius Oliveira's UFC debut was nothing short of spectacular. Facing Bernardo Sopaj, Oliveira displayed resilience and striking prowess, setting the stage for a memorable bout. Despite Sopaj's early ground control, Oliveira rallied in the final round with a devastating knee that sealed the fight with a knockout victory at 4:41. This fight showcased Oliveira's potential. It delivered intense action from start to finish.
4. Max Holloway vs. Justin Gaethje - UFC 300
UFC 300 was a milestone event filled with historic moments, none more thrilling than Max Holloway's clash with Justin Gaethje. Holloway's precision striking from the opening bell collided with Gaethje's relentless power, resulting in a back-and-forth battle for the ages. Despite Gaethje's resilience, Holloway's strategic prowess shone through, culminating in a dramatic fifth-round knockout with just one-second remaining. This fight not only solidified Holloway's status as a UFC legend but also marked a highlight of the year.
3. Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier - UFC 302
Islam Makhachev showcased his grappling mastery against Dustin Poirier in a highly anticipated lightweight title bout. From the outset, Makhachev's takedowns and ground control tested Poirier's defenses, setting a relentless pace throughout the championship rounds. The fight climaxed in the fifth round, with Makhachev securing a D'Arce choke submission to defend his title successfully. This bout highlighted Makhachev's dominance and underscored Poirier's tenacity in a grueling battle.
2. Amanda Lemos vs. Mackenzie Dern - UFC 298
Amanda Lemos and Mackenzie Dern delivered a compelling matchup that captured the essence of women's MMA. Lemos's striking prowess and effective ground control set the tone early, while Dern's submission attempts showcased her resilience and technical skill. The fight peaked in the final round, with both fighters exchanging significant strikes and submission attempts. Ultimately, Lemos's effective defense and strategic approach earned her a hard-fought unanimous decision victory, cementing this bout as a standout performance of the year.
1. Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland - UFC 297
The middleweight title clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland at UFC 297 culminated in skill, strategy, and championship heart. Strickland's sharp jabs and defensive prowess were met with Du Plessis's aggressive striking and takedown attempts, creating a closely contested battle throughout five rounds. Despite Strickland's resilience, Du Plessis's slightly more aggressive and varied offensive strategy earned him a split decision victory and the middleweight championship belt. This fight showcased the best of both fighters and delivered high drama and excitement, making it the top UFC fight of the first half of 2024.
