The world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is often punctuated by events that promise grand spectacles, filled with iconic athletes and buzzworthy debuts. As we look back on 2024, it has become evident that certain fight cards were meticulously crafted to be pivotal moments in the sport. Among these, UFC 300 stands out as the undeniable highlight of the year—an event that not only lived up to its lofty expectations but also redefined what it means to be an “event of the year.”
UFC 300 unfolded at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where the atmosphere buzzed from the start. The fight card was headlined by a series of captivating matchups, each brimming with the promise of high stakes, as well as significant narratives. Former champions graced the octagon, including Deiveson Figueiredo, who showcased his grappling prowess by submitting Cody Garbrandt, setting an energetic tone that resonated throughout the night. But it was the depth and caliber of the fights that truly set UFC 300 apart from its peers—an allure that was palpable even before the first bell rang.
On the prelims, fans witnessed Kayla Harrison make her long-anticipated UFC debut against a former titleholder, though it felt somewhat bittersweet that such a high-profile matchup was relegated to the undercard. Nonetheless, it exemplified the immense talent pool on display at the event, further validating the UFC’s commitment to presenting compelling fights.
The main card of UFC 300 was a carefully curated showcase of title fights, with two bouts featuring champions battling for supremacy. Alex Pereira’s victory over former champ Jamahal Hill was a hallmark of the night. Yet, the true crescendo came in the match between Max Holloway and Justin Gaethje when, against all odds, Holloway delivered a striking performance that will be etched into the annals of MMA history. With just two seconds remaining on the clock, Holloway creatively called for an all-out brawl, resulting in him landing a powerful hook that knocked Gaethje out cold.
This moment was nothing short of spectacular and served not only to highlight Holloway’s prowess but also solidified his status as a living legend in the sport. Such dramatic endings are what fans crave, and UFC 300 delivered in spades. The leap from an ordinary matchup to an electrifying finish encapsulated the spirit of MMA—a sport defined by unpredictability and excitement.
Holloway’s knockout wasn’t just about the headlines; there was a monetary incentive, with bonuses set at a staggering $300,000 to commemorate UFC 300. Holloway remarkably walked away with $600,000 after securing both the Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night awards. It’s moments like this that not only mark an athlete’s career but also contribute to the overall legacy of an event—making UFC 300 a setting of not just competition but of stories.
Moreover, the card recorded an impressive number of finishes, with eight out of thirteen fights resulting in decisive outcomes. The event blended a balance of current champions, former titleholders, Olympic medalists, and fresh faces in a manner that few organizations have managed to replicate. This exhaustive showcase of talent and competition has undoubtedly set a new standard for future UFC cards.
When held in comparison to other events in 2024, such as UFC 306 and the PFL vs. Bellator crossover, UFC 300 emerges ahead of the pack. While UFC 306 showcased some technological marvels, it lacked the star power and thrilling outcomes that characterized UFC 300. Similarly, the PFL vs. Bellator event, while intriguing, suffered from an inconsistency in performance, especially from the Bellator side, diminishing its allure.
As the dust settles from UFC 300, it demands recognition not merely as a standout event of the year but potentially as one of the most significant milestones in the sport’s history. In a year filled with noteworthy fights, UFC 300 may well hold its ground as the definitive benchmark for what an MMA event can achieve. Future events will, without a doubt, be measured against this remarkable show, marking it as a true standard-bearer for the sport and leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the UFC has in store for the future.