Mixed martial arts (MMA) has been around since the early 20th century, but it’s only in recent decades that the sport began to take off and become a mainstream phenomenon. With its explosive combination of striking, grappling, and athleticism, MMA is one of the most captivating sports on Earth. The best fights in UFC history are often hotly debated among fans, but some true classics stand the test of time.
There are many contenders when discussing the best MMA fights of all time. From legendary fighters like Royce Gracie and Randy Couture to modern stars such as Conor McGregor and Jon Jones, these are some of the best fights in UFC history. Whether a five-round slugfest or a quick submission finish, these fights will always be remembered for their excitement and entertainment value.
Best MMA Fights Of All Time In UFC History
Here is a look at some of the best MMA fights of all time ever seen in the UFC:
1. Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz 2 – UFC 202
The fight between the two rivals was an intense and exciting clash from start to finish. It was a back-and-forth battle with multiple lead changes throughout, but ultimately, McGregor got his hand raised in the end. The fight was such a hit with fans that it was later named the ‘Fight of the Year’ by UFC President Dana White.
2. Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson – UFC 165
This fight between two of the best fighters in MMA history saw both men give it their all for the full five rounds. Jones eventually emerged as the victor, winning via a split decision.
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3. Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen – UFC 117
In this bout between two bitter rivals, Silva overcame a huge deficit on the scorecards and shocked Sonnen with a submission victory in the dying seconds of the fifth round. This fight is remembered for its thrilling conclusion and for being one of the most talked about fights ever.
4. Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald 2 – UFC 189
What is the greatest fight in MMA history? It is considered to be one of the greatest fights in MMA history. After an incredibly close fight, Lawler would go on to win by split decision. The fight was so captivating that it earned fight of the Night honors and a place in many best fights in UFC history lists.
5. Ronda Rousey vs. Miesha Tate 2 – UFC 168
This match between Rousey and challenger Tate was a thrilling clash that saw both women give it their all to get the win. In the end, Rousey emerged victorious, submitting Tate via armbar in the third round.
6. Eddie Alvarez vs. Dustin Poirier – UFC 211
This fight between Alvarez and Poirier was an absolute barn-burner from start to finish, as both men went toe-to-toe in a battle that saw lead changes throughout. In the end, Alvarez won, earning a TKO victory in the third round.
7. Frankie Edgar vs. BJ Penn 2 – UFC 118
This fight between Edgar and Penn was a back-and-forth battle, with both men trading blows throughout the five-round contest. Ultimately, Edgar claimed victory via unanimous decision, becoming the first man to defeat Penn in the UFC.
8. Mark Hunt vs. Antonio Silva – UFC Fight Night 33
This fight between Hunt and Silva was an absolute slugfest from start to finish, with both men giving it their all to emerge as the victor. In the end, Silva won the fight after five hard-fought rounds.
9. Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard – UFC 125
What is the most insane UFC fight? When it comes to the best fights in UFC history, few stand out as truly insane. One of the most intense and memorable battles was between Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard at UFC 125 in 2011. This contest featured intense exchanges, with both fighters taking significant damage before ending in a draw.
10. Randy Couture vs. Chuck Liddell – UFC 52
Both fighters were evenly matched and went back and forth for this entire fight, with neither one taking a clear lead. Ultimately, Couture landed a powerful knockout punch that ended the best fight in UFC history.
11. Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Mirko Cro Cop Filipovic – UFC 70
What is the bloodiest MMA fight of all time? The fight showcased power and technical ability. The pair traded blows for nearly three full rounds, with both men looking determined to best the other.
Gonzaga opened up a cut on the forehead of Cro Cop in the fight, and by its conclusion, the octagon was essentially splattered with the blood of both fighters. Ultimately, Gonzaga emerged victorious from the fight via technical knockout in the third round.
12. Anderson Silva vs. Dan Henderson – UFC 82
This classic fight between Silva and Henderson saw both men give their all to come out on top. In the end, Silva emerged victorious, submitting Henderson via a rear-naked choke in the second round.
13. Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes 2 – UFC 179
This fight between Aldo and challenger Mendes was an intense and entertaining battle, with both men giving their all to win. In the end, Aldo emerged victorious over five rounds of action.
14. Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg 2 – UFC 52
This fight between champion Hughes and challenger Trigg saw both men give their all to come out on top. In the end, Hughes emerged victorious, submitting Trigg via rear-naked choke in the second round.
15. Tyson Griffin vs. Frank Edgar – UFC Fight Night 13
This lightweight fight between Griffin and Edgar was a battle that saw both men giving it their all for the full 15 minutes. In the end, Edgar won the fight.
These are some of the best fights in UFC history, but many more are out there. So take some time to explore the past and uncover some of the other great fights that have taken place in this incredible sport.