Discover the top newcomers in the world of mixed martial arts in 2023. From impressive debuts to championship victories, these fighters stood out from the rest. Find out who made the list!
| Rank | Fighter | Promotion |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diego Lopes | UFC |
| 2 | Jesus Pinedo | PFL |
| 3 | Impa Kasanganay | PFL |
| 4 | Bo Nickal | UFC |
| 5 | Ikram Aliskerov | UFC |
Diego Lopes, Jesus Pinedo, Impa Kasanganay, Bo Nickal, and Ikram Aliskerov are the top newcomers in the world of mixed martial arts in 2023. These fighters made a significant impact in their respective promotions, showcasing their skills and determination. From impressive performances to championship victories, they have proven themselves as rising stars in the MMA world.
The major mixed martial arts promotions have wrapped up their schedules for 2023, and it’s time to crown this year’s MMA News award winners. From December 18, MMA News is releasing its top picks daily for a number of year-end categories. After getting the ball rolling with the Female Fighter of the Year yesterday, it’s now time to reveal the Newcomer of the Year, as we determine which debutant among the UFC, Bellator, PFL, and ONE Championship rosters stood out from the rest in 2023.
Honorable Mentions
- Steve Erceg – UFC flyweight
- Elves Brener – UFC lightweight
- Vitor Petrino- UFC light heavyweight
Now, let’s take a look at the top five fighters who received the most votes for this year’s award:
- Diego Lopes – UFC Featherweight
Diego Lopes marks one of two fighters who were able to crack the top five despite suffering a loss inside the Octagon this year. The Brazilian-born Mexico resident debuted on short notice at UFC 288 this past May, where he replaced Bryce Mitchell to share the cage with undefeated top 10 contender Movsar Evloev. Despite being an overwhelming underdog, Lopes impressed with submission attempts and sheer resilience. He followed his first outing on MMA’s biggest stage with consecutive first-round victories, first submitting Gavin Tucker via triangle-armbar at UFC Nashville and then knocking out Pat Sabatini at the Madison Square Garden-held UFC 295 pay-per-view.
- Jesus Pinedo – PFL Featherweight Champion
Jesus Pinedo’s rapid rise from unknown entity to MMA champion and millionaire earned him a spot high up this year’s order. After a forgettable two-fight UFC run in 2019, Pinedo earned a shot in the PFL this year and upset the odds by knocking out 2022 featherweight title winner Brendan Loughnane. He secured a spot in the playoffs with another finish, this time over ex-Brave CF champion Bubba Jenkins. Pinedo’s fairytale journey culminated in a full-circle moment at the 2023 PFL World Championship, where he avenged his defeat against Gabriel Braga to become Peru’s first champion from a major MMA organization.
- Impa Kasanganay – PFL Light Heavyweight Champion
Impa Kasanganay’s story is one of redemption and triumph. After a devastating knockout loss in the UFC, he found himself fighting under the Eagle FC banner. Kasanganay made the most of his second chance in a new promotion, winning a major championship thanks to four victories in the space of eight months. From competing on the regional circuit amid a 1-3 run to five victories, a title, and $1 million — Kasanganay was undoubtedly one of 2023’s breakthrough fighters.
- Bo Nickal – UFC Middleweight
Bo Nickal arrived inside the Octagon with high expectations. A three-time NCAA Division I National Champion, Nickal made good on his promise to deliver on debut, submitting Jamie Pickett inside one round. The 27-year-old continued his winning streak with a knockout victory over Val Woodburn. Despite some controversy surrounding his wins, Nickal’s performance earned him the runner-up spot.
- Ikram Aliskerov – UFC Middleweight
Ikram Aliskerov takes home the Newcomer of the Year award. The four-time combat sambo world champion made a strong impression in the Octagon with two knockout victories in 2023. Aliskerov debuted by brutally knocking out Phil Hawes and followed it up with a highlight reel knockout of Warlley Alves. With a breakout year behind him, Aliskerov is poised to rise into title contention in 2024.
Congratulations to all the top newcomers of 2023, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the MMA world!
