As we step into 2024, it’s time to reflect on another exhilarating year of mixed martial arts (MMA). With fights that dazzled fans and showcased the incredible skills of fighters, the realm of submissions has taken center stage. This article delves into the standout submission victories of 2023, spotlighting the tactical prowess that defines the sport. Here, we will analyze the crème de la crème of grappling submissions that left audiences on the edge of their seats, culminating in MMA Junkie’s Submission of the Year award.
Among the year’s highlights, Paddy Pimblett’s performance stands out as a testament to his grappling acumen. Facing his toughest opponent yet, King Green, Pimblett showcased not just resilience but a striking adaptability that is seldom seen in the octagon. The fight unfolded dramatically, with Green initially seeking to establish dominance through striking and takedown attempts. However, Pimblett swiftly turned the tables, employing a guillotine choke that transitioned fluidly into a triangle choke.
What makes Pimblett’s technique noteworthy is the precision with which he executed his grappling maneuvers. Green, despite his efforts to escape, found himself ensnared in a sequence of submissions, culminating in an armbar that left him unconscious—a rapid descent from a competitive bout to a definitive victory. The way Pimblett adjusted mid-fight exemplifies the fluidity and dynamism that is characteristic of high-caliber MMA submissions.
In a thrilling rematch against Yair Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 237, Brian Ortega demonstrated sheer determination and tactical brilliance. This encounter was not just a battle of skills but a display of mental fortitude, particularly after Ortega suffered an ankle injury early on. His ability to withstand Rodriguez’s striking onslaught and turn the tide is commendable.
As the fight progressed into the third round, Ortega’s strategy came to fruition when he executed an arm-triangle choke, successfully submitting Rodriguez. This victory not only marked a personal redemption for Ortega following previous setbacks but also reinforced his status as a top contender in the featherweight division. His journey through adversity serves as inspiration, epitomizing the resilience required at the elite level of MMA.
The lightweight title match between Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 is etched in the annals of MMA history for its intensity and skill. Makhachev, in a bid to defend his title, faced an equally determined opponent in Poirier. The fight unfolded over 25 minutes, each round packed with relentless exchanges.
However, it was in the fifth round that Makhachev turned the tide decisively. With a perfectly timed D’Arce choke, he capitalized on a moment of vulnerability, demonstrating not just strength but an astute understanding of grappling tactics. This submission not only sealed Makhachev’s victory but also underscored the high-stakes nature of championship fights where a moment of inattention could lead to a swift end.
The middleweight showdown between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 was a highly anticipated encounter, and it delivered on all fronts. The back-and-forth nature of the fight kept spectators glued to their seats, but it was Du Plessis who emerged triumphantly. In an impressive display of skill, he executed a rear-naked choke in the fourth round, making Adesanya submit for the first time in his career.
This moment was particularly significant as it showcased Du Plessis’s ability to perform under pressure against one of the division’s most formidable fighters. The psychological edge gained from submitting a rival of Adesanya’s caliber cannot be understated, marking a turning point in Du Plessis’s career.
Finally, Khamzat Chimaev’s return at UFC 308 was nothing short of explosive. His fight against former champion Robert Whittaker displayed a seamless blend of aggression and technical skill. In the first round, Chimaev’s relentless pressure culminated in a face crank submission that left Whittaker unable to continue.
Chimaev’s strategy exemplified the importance of initiating pressure right from the start, forcing his opponent into a defensive mindset. It also highlighted a less-discussed aspect of grappling: the mental game, wherein the aggressor can often dictate the pace and flow of the fight.
Each of these submission victories represents more than just a win; they signify the evolution of grappling techniques in MMA. As fighters continue to innovate and adapt strategies, the anticipation for future submissions grows. As we reflect on 2023, fans are invited to vote for their favorite submission of the year, setting the stage for an even more thrilling 2024. The tapestry of MMA is woven with spectacular moments, and the art of submissions will undoubtedly be at its heart.