The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) witnessed another scintillating year in 2024, showcasing unparalleled skill, resilience, and sheer determination from fighters across various promotions. This year, MMA Junkie has meticulously analyzed the bouts from January through December, culminating in a selection that recognizes the most exhilarating encounters of the year. Below are the standout fights that defined 2024 and the highly contested title of Fight of the Year.
Honorable Mentions: Not Enough Can Be Said
MMA fans were treated to a variety of exciting bouts that, while not making the top five, undoubtedly left a mark on fight enthusiasts. Max Holloway’s match against Justin Gaethje was one for the ages, further enriching the narrative surrounding the BMF title. Holloway’s courageous display was on full display when, despite being ahead on the scorecards, he boldly invited Gaethje to the center of the Octagon for an exhilarating final ten seconds. In a shocking turn of events, Holloway landed a decisive strike just as the clock ticked down to zero, knocking Gaethje out in a moment reminiscent of the greatest highlights in MMA history.
Another electrifying display was seen in the PFL fight between Lewis McGrillen and Dean Garnett, two bantamweights who epitomized the slugfest mentality. With an astonishing 14 knockdowns in a little over twelve minutes, the fighters’ relentless desire for victory culminated in a dramatic finish by McGrillen, who ended Garnett’s evening with a ferocious knockout just shy of the fight’s conclusion.
Furthermore, the bout showcasing Mateusz Rebecki and Myktybek Orolbai at UFC 308 was a testament to the fighters’ spirits, perceived grit, and commitment to their craft. Over a grueling fifteen minutes, both athletes engaged in a battle marked by adversity and sportingly defined violence. While Rebecki emerged victorious via a split decision, both competitors earned well-deserved recognition for their Fight of the Night accolade.
UFC 302 presented a highly anticipated title clash between Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev, where the stakes couldn’t have been higher. For twenty-five suspenseful minutes, the lightweight division’s elite clashed in a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Makhachev, displaying extraordinary skill, managed to secure a D’Arce choke submission in the final round, changing the course of the bout just when it seemed poised to go the distance. This matchup exemplified how quickly fortunes can shift in MMA, an attribute that continues to mesmerize fans worldwide.
With all the nail-biting action from 2024, it was the lightweight battle between Esteban Ribovics and Daniel Zellhuber at UFC 306 that ultimately earned the prestigious title of Fight of the Year. Both athletes, known for their tenacity and relentless fighting styles, delivered a technical masterclass that left audiences enthralled. Each fighter faced moments where they were pushed to their limits, yet they persevered through adversity, demonstrating their mental fortitude and fighting spirit.
After fifteen minutes of back-and-forth exchanges and near knockdowns on both sides, Ribovics emerged victorious in a split decision that was as close as the fight itself. This epic confrontation did not only elevate their standing on the card but also introduced both prospects to a wider audience, solidifying their potential to be future stars in the world of MMA.
Looking Ahead: Building on the Momentum
As we transition into the new year, the remarkable fights that transpired in 2024 set a high benchmark for the MMA landscape. Enthusiasts will undoubtedly look forward to the upcoming events, curious to see who will emerge as next year’s elite fighters and what unforgettable matchups await. With the unpredictability of this exhilarating sport, the prospects for 2025 look even more promising, and the foundation laid by this year’s fights provides a thrilling narrative that will only continue to evolve.