In 2023, the UFC witnessed remarkable and unforgettable fights. Some new names, like Ikram Aliskerov and Bo Nickal, joined the Fight and amazed the fans with their outstanding fighting abilities. The 5 best UFC fights of 2023 created an intense environment. Amanda Nunes and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua also retired from MMA.
From Alexandre Pantoja’s epic battle against Brandon Moreno for the flyweight championship to the intense showdown between Jalin Turner and Dan Hooker in the lightweight division, the year was filled with incredible matchups. Almost all UFC fights went well, but which fights stand out? Let’s explore the 5 best UFC fights of 2023.
Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski
In 2023, one of the impressive fights was between one of the top UFC fighters of 2023, Makhachev, and Volkanovski in UFC 284. Both fighters showed excellent fighting skills in that fight. In the fourth round, he climbed on Volkanovski’s back and maintained his position for a period.
In the last and final round, Volknavski dropped Makhachev. Meanwhile, Makhachev hurt his opponent with his left hand while finishing the Fight.
The judges decided to give Islam Makhachev the title of Lightweight UFC. Therefore, this fight was one of the 5 best UFC fights of 2023.
Geoff Neal vs Shavkat Rokhmonov
The Fight between Rakhmonov and Neal was intense and showcased the skills of both welterweights in UFC 285. The Fight started with Neal powerfully delivering powerful blows at close range, countered by Rakhmonov’s body and head kicks.
In the third round, Neal attempted to defeat Rakhmonov, but Rakhmonov fought back and made Neal submit with a Rear Naked Choke.
Rakhmonov won, marking his 17th consecutive win. This proves he is one of the 5 best UFC fighters of 2023.
Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev
Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev had an exciting fight at UFC 286, one of the 5 best UFC fights of 2023. Fiziev targeted Gaethje’s legs in the first round, but Gaethje adjusted and returned with powerful upper body and head strikes in the second round.
He also executed a takedown in the third round. Gaethje won the Fight by unanimous decision, leaving Fiziev bruised and bleeding. The Fight was highly entertaining and earned Fight of the Night honors. Gaetje showed his wonderful skills to be a champion, while Fiziev still gets fans’ support despite the loss.
The Fight was a back-and-forth battle that left the judges with the difficult task of determining the winner. Gaethje emerged victorious in the majority decision, showcasing his skills as an elite lightweight.
Alexandre Pantoja vs Brandon Moreno 2
Alexandre Pantoja won the UFC flyweight title by beating Brandon Moreno in one of the in 5 best UFC fights of 2023 UFC 290. Pantoja started the Fight strongly by dropping Moreno in the first round. Moreno fought back with his jab in the second round.
The rest of the Fight was intense, with Moreno landing better strikes and Pantoja dominating the game. When the Fight ended, Pantoja won by a small margin. This victory made Pantoja the new champion, bringing Brazil its second UFC flyweight titleholder.
Dan Hooker vs Jalin Turner
Jalin Turner and Dan Hooker had an intense fight on the main card at UFC 290. They exchanged specific strikes and powerful hits, with Turner causing damage in the second round, but Hooker fought back strongly.
In the final round, Hooker dominated as Turner tired out, finally winning by a close split decision. The Fight was thrilling between two tall, lightweight fighters, showcasing technical skill and aggressive exchanges adding this fight to 5 best UFC fights of 2023 list.
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Conclusion
In 2023, the UFC had several memorable title fights, including Alexandre Pantoja’s victory over Brandon Moreno for the flyweight championship and a thrilling match between Jalin Turner and Dan Hooker in the lightweight division. But the 5 best UFC fights of 2023 make this year memorable for UFC fans.
The year was marked by significant changes, such as the UFC’s merger with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and the introduction of new anti-doping partnerships. Despite some controversies, the UFC delivered exciting fights, making 2023 a remarkable year for mixed martial arts fans.
