When it comes to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), nothing stirs the pot quite like an underdog victory. Each year, fighters who are seen as long shots turn the tables on their opponents, leading to some of the biggest surprises in professional sports. The year 2024 proved no exception, showcasing moments that not only shocked fans but also rocked the betting world. Utilizing insights from MMA database Tapology and leveraging the reactions from the betting public, we’ve taken a deep dive to outline the most significant upsets in major promotions such as UFC, PFL, Bellator, and ONE Championship.
Understanding the nature of betting lines can provide context for the remarkable feats witnessed in MMA. Oddsmakers set the lines based on extensive data, prevailing trends, and public sentiment. This year, fighters stepped into the ring with the odds stacked against them, only to defy expectations in extraordinary ways. The 2024 calendar year witnessed remarkable performances that resonated with both avid fans and casual observers alike.
Among numerous fights, only those listed across major betting platforms and recorded by Tapology were eligible for recognition. In this context, promotions such as ONE, PFL, DWCS, and others shone in their ability to bring forth talent that consistently upsets conventional wisdom.
One of the standout moments is undoubtedly “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane’s victory over Anatoly Malykhin at ONE 169. This fight showcased not just skill, but also the untapped potential that many fighters possess, despite the obstacles inhibiting their rise in rankings. Kane’s ability to seize victory against Malykhin underscored a broader theme of potential realized under pressure.
Another remarkable bout was Claudio Pacella’s unanimous decision win over Mark Ewen during PFL Europe 2. Pacella not only etched his name in history as the first to defeat the Scottish fighter decisively, but he also put Italy on the map as a country to watch in MMA. His reign of dominance foreshadows a rising tide of talent in European MMA, amplifying the significance of his victory.
Additionally, Reece McLaren’s late-year upset against Jarred Brooks via split decision further added to the narrative of underdog triumph. After enduring a mixed spell in his career, McLaren’s recent form serves as a reminder that the sport is replete with firefights where resilience can turn the tide. Entering 2025 with momentum, he embodies the quintessential fighter reviving hopes after hardship.
The excitement around underdog victories extends beyond just the high-profile names and culminates in recognizing emerging talents. Fighters like Aiemann Zahabi and Daniele Miceli made waves in prominent events this year. Miceli, for instance, pulled off a stunning first-round TKO against Ibrahima Mane in the PFL Europe 3 event. His decisive victory in just 86 seconds revealed not only raw athleticism but also a tactical awareness that belies his prior visibility.
Moreover, Dimitre Ivy’s unanimous decision win over Lucas Brennan at the 2024 PFL 1 was termed the biggest upset of the season. Surprising pundits and fans alike, Ivy’s performance illuminated how unpredictable MMA can be, with Brennan’s resignation marking a pivotal moment in his career trajectory within the PFL/Bellator umbrella.
The upsets of 2024 have resonated deeply within the MMA community, serving as a potent reminder of the sport’s unpredictable nature. Each fighter embarked on their journey with aspirations clouded by doubt, but when stakes are high, we often see the emergence of champions from the shadows. As we move forward into the next year, fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on the underdogs, for they are the wild cards that can illuminate the next chapter in MMA history. The thrilling unpredictability that defines this sport will forever capture the hearts of its followers while keeping the betting houses on high alert.