Relive the top five MMA performances of 2023 that left fans in awe. From shocking upsets to dominant displays, these fighters showcased their skills and solidified their place in MMA history.
| Ranking | Fighter | Opponent | Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Alexa Grasso | Valentina Shevchenko | UFC 285 |
| 4 | Israel Adesanya | Alex Pereira | UFC 287 |
| 3 | Dricus Du Plessis | Robert Whittaker | UFC 290 |
| 2 | Jon Jones | Ciryl Gane | UFC 285 |
| 1 | Sean Strickland | Israel Adesanya | – |
Unforgettable Moments in the Octagon
The year 2023 has been filled with thrilling mixed martial arts (MMA) action, and it’s time to recognize the top performers who left a lasting impact on the sport. From stunning upsets to dominant displays, these fighters showcased their skills and solidified their place in MMA history. Let’s take a closer look at the top five performances that captivated fans around the world.
5. Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko – UFC 285
UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion Alexa Grasso shocked the world with her memorable upset against the undefeated Valentina Shevchenko. In a hard-fought battle, Grasso showcased her determination and skill, ultimately dethroning the long-reigning champion to claim the 125-pound title.
4. Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira – UFC 287
Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya sought redemption against kickboxing rival Alex Pereira. After suffering two losses to Pereira in their kickboxing matches, Adesanya delivered a spectacular knockout victory in their highly anticipated rematch, proving that he still had what it takes to compete at the highest level.
3. Dricus Du Plessis vs. Robert Whittaker – UFC 290
Dricus Du Plessis, the rising middleweight contender, faced off against former champion Robert Whittaker in a battle that defied expectations. Despite being the underdog, Du Plessis showcased his knockout power and stunned the MMA world with a second-round finish, solidifying his place among the division’s elite.
2. Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane – UFC 285
The long-awaited heavyweight debut of Jon Jones was nothing short of spectacular. Facing off against the talented Ciryl Gane, Jones wasted no time in showcasing his dominance. With a lightning-fast takedown and a tight guillotine choke, Jones secured victory and became a two-division champion, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
1. Sean Strickland vs. Israel Adesanya
Sean Strickland’s remarkable journey from a two-fight losing streak to UFC gold is a story of determination and resilience. In a stunning upset, Strickland faced off against the highly regarded Israel Adesanya and showcased his striking prowess. With a first-round knockdown and a dominant performance throughout the fight, Strickland proved that he belonged among the elite.
These five performances will forever be etched in the minds of MMA fans, serving as a testament to the skill, heart, and dedication of these incredible fighters.
| Ranking | Fighter | Opponent | Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Alexa Grasso | Valentina Shevchenko | UFC 285 |
| 4 | Israel Adesanya | Alex Pereira | UFC 287 |
| 3 | Dricus Du Plessis | Robert Whittaker | UFC 290 |
| 2 | Jon Jones | Ciryl Gane | UFC 285 |
| 1 | Sean Strickland | Israel Adesanya | – |
