Top 5 UFC Fights of 2023

In the fast-paced world of UFC, 2023 has already delivered some jaw-dropping spectacles, showcasing the pinnacle of mixed martial arts. Let’s delve into the heart-pounding action and relive the five best fights that left me, and other fans on the edge of their seats.

1. Geoff Neal vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov

Stepping into the Octagon at UFC 285, Shavkat Rakhmonov carried a considerable wave of anticipation as the highly touted up-and-coming prospect in the welterweight division.

Early in on in the fight Neal’s determination shone through, even in the face of adversity – missing weight and confronting a formidable opponent – Neal showcased resilience and skill. He landed clean punches, delivering a memorable performance. In the third round, he even managed to hurt Rakhmonov with a significant combination.

However, Rakhmonov’s tenacity prevailed, he dominated Neal along the cage. Employing heavy knees to the body and engaging in striking exchanges, Rakhmonov showcased his diverse skill set. The climax of the fight came when Rakhmonov secured a modified standing bulldog choke, forcing Neal into submission.

Weight Class	Welterweight
Win Method	Submission (Bulldog choke)
Round	3
Time	4:17

2. Jared Cannonier vs. Marvin Vettori

UFC Vegas 75’s main event saw a clash between Jared Cannonier and Marvin Vettori, which unfolded in a ridiculous five-round brawl, captivating spectators with its sheer intensity. Overcoming early challenges, Cannonier demonstrated unwavering resilience and skill, culminating in a memorable unanimous decision victory. The judges scored the contest 49-45, 49-45, and 48-46, solidifying Cannonier’s triumph.

This epic battle not only secured a significant win for Cannonier but also etched his place in the UFC history books by breaking the all-time record for the most significant strikes landed in a middleweight bout. The relentless exchange of blows showcased the middleweights’ determination and tenacity, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of fight enthusiasts.

Weight Class	Middleweight
Win Method	Decision
Round	5
Time	5:00

3. Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski

Makhachev’s triumph over Volkanovski at UFC 284 defied expectations about his stamina, disproving the notion that a prolonged battle would favor his opponent’s endless gas tank. Relentlessly working to bring the resilient Volkanovski to the mat, Makhachev exhibited remarkable endurance. Their energy expenditure, if quantifiable, could have powered the entire arena!

The fight’s most memorable moment occurred as Volkanovski, after surviving three minutes of Makhachev’s back control, roared into the camera, showcasing successful defense against the sport’s most dominant position.

In the final minute, Volkanovski secured the lone knockdown of the fight, coming tantalisingly close to ending Makhachev’s lightweight reign just as it began. While Makhachev rightfully claimed a fair decision victory, Volkanovski’s performance supported the argument that, pound-for-pound, he still stood among the sport’s elite.

Weight Class	Featherweight
Win Method	Decision
Round	5
Time	5:00

4. Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev

At UFC 286 in London, Justin Gaethje clinched a significant victory in the co-main event, defeating Rafael Fiziev through majority decision at the O2 Arena. The expected thrill lived up to its promise early on, with Fiziev showcasing speed and landing strikes in the initial round. Gaethje, courageously responded with his own kicks and punches.

The intense pace persisted beyond the first round as both fighters executed their strategies. Fiziev emphasized body kicks, leaving a distinct mark. Gaethje, true to his style, continued with his trademark volume and leg kicks. His powerful hands in response to Fiziev’s advances visibly affected Fiziev’s eye, this deterioration of Fiziev’s face could have played a role in the judges’ scoring.

Weight Class	Lightweight
Win Method	Decision
Round	3
Time	5:00

5. C.J. Vergara vs. Daniel Lacerda

In the second preliminary bout of UFC San Antonio, Vergara orchestrated a stunning comeback against Daniel Lacerda. The match reached a pivotal moment as Vergara, having been hurt on the feet, spent a considerable portion of the opening round literally evading Lacerda by running around the octagon. Despite the challenging situation, Vergara strategically kept referee Jason Herzog from stopping the fight.

As Lacerda continued his assault, Vergara somehow executed a takedown, slowing down the action and surviving the rest of first round. Heading into Round 2, Lacerda maintained his aggressiveness, but with evident fatigue, it was Vergara who seized control. Pushing the pace, Vergara gained an advantage on the ground, successfully fending off a Lacerda leg lock.

Vergara continued this ground domminance and unleashed a barrage of ground and pound strikes from top position, compelling referee Jason Herzog to intervene.

Weight Class	Flyweight
Win Method	KO/TKO (Ground and Pound)
Round	2
Time	4:08

In the ever-evolving world of UFC, these five bouts have left an indelible mark on the sport, showcasing the essence of skill, heart, and unyielding determination. As we look forward to more thrilling matchups, these fights will be remembered as defining moments in the saga of UFC in 2023.