Relive the most memorable fights of 2023 and discover the moments that turned casual viewers into diehard fans. From high-level chess matches to action-packed brawls, these fights showcased the best of combat sports. Find out who emerged victorious and why these battles stood head and shoulders above the rest.
| Winner: Islam Makhachev def. Alexander Volkanovski, UFC 284
The clash between lightweight champion Makhachev and featherweight champion Volkanovski was a true display of competitive excellence. These two pound-for-pound fighters engaged in a five-round tug-of-war that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
| Honorable Mentions
- Shavkat Rakhmonov def. Geoff Neal, UFC 285
Rakhmonov vs. Neal was a masterclass in violence, showcasing the perfect combination of technique, power, and durability.
- Irene Aldana def. Karol Rosa, UFC 296
This fight was a surprise slugfest that delivered excitement to fans. Aldana, coming off a disappointing loss, faced Rosa, known for her decision-heavy fights.
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Dan Hooker def. Jalin Turner (UFC 290)
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Luke Riley def. Alexander Lööf (Cage Warriors 160)
These fights also received votes for their thrilling performances, showcasing the talent and heart of the fighters involved.
In a year filled with unforgettable moments, these fights stood out as the cream of the crop. They exemplified the best that combat sports has to offer and left fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds.
As fight fans, we are always in search of that spark of magic, the kind of fight that turns a casual viewer into a diehard fan. And the past 12 months have delivered just that. From high-level chess matches to action-packed brawls, the year 2023 has been painted in red with unforgettable moments inside the octagon.
Our panel of CBS Sports experts sat down to sort through the carnage and declare which fights stood head and shoulders above the rest. Let’s take a closer look at the winners and honorable mentions.
Winner: Islam Makhachev def. Alexander Volkanovski, UFC 284
The clash between lightweight champion Makhachev and featherweight champion Volkanovski was a true display of competitive excellence. These two pound-for-pound fighters engaged in a five-round tug-of-war that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The first three rounds were evenly fought, with both men landing an identical number of significant and total strikes. Round 3 was the only one that split the judges’ opinions. As the fight progressed, Makhachev’s dominant top control in Round 4 and Volkanovski’s knockdown and striking volume in Round 5 swung the pendulum further in each direction.
Ultimately, Makhachev emerged as the more effective fighter in the crucial swing rounds, securing a unanimous victory. But this fight was unusual in that both fighters came out looking better. Volkanovski’s valiant performance, including knocking down the bigger champion, led many to argue that he deserved the No. 1 pound-for-pound spot.
Honorable Mentions
- Shavkat Rakhmonov def. Geoff Neal, UFC 285
Rakhmonov vs. Neal was a masterclass in violence, showcasing the perfect combination of technique, power, and durability. Rakhmonov, a force to be reckoned with at welterweight, proved his worth against the thunderous striker Neal. Despite Neal’s resilience and powerful strikes, Rakhmonov ultimately secured a submission victory, extending his undefeated record.
- Irene Aldana def. Karol Rosa, UFC 296
This fight was a surprise slugfest that delivered excitement to fans. Aldana, coming off a disappointing loss, faced Rosa, known for her decision-heavy fights. The first half of the fight saw Rosa dismantling Aldana’s lead leg with stiff kicks, while Aldana showcased her resilience and boxing skills in the second half. Both fighters displayed incredible durability and determination, making this an unexpected contender for Fight of the Year .
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Dan Hooker def. Jalin Turner (UFC 290)
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Luke Riley def. Alexander Lööf (Cage Warriors 160)
These fights also received votes for their thrilling performances, showcasing the talent and heart of the fighters involved.
In a year filled with unforgettable moments, these fights stood out as the cream of the crop. They exemplified the best that combat sports has to offer and left fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds.
