We a handful of stellar show-time throwdowns in the UFC in 2021. Which were the best ones? Read on for my picks of the top 5. What were the best fights of 2021?
5. Charles Oliveira vs Michael Chandler
Charles Oliveira came out of this one on top as the champion.
“I’m proving to everybody that I’m the lion of lions,” said Sao Paulo’s Oliveira, who has now won nine straight in becoming the 11th undisputed lightweight champion in UFC history.
Round two was where it was at. Oliveira turned it around with a left hook that dropped Chandler. Oliveira took advantage and advanced with strikes. Referee stopped it about 19 seconds in the second round with the victory.
4. TJ Dillashaw vs Cory Sandhagen
TJ Dillashaw was coming off a two year drug ban but got the victory of Sandhagen in a grueling five-round split decision.
Sandhagen was the first to draw blood with a left hook to TJ’s eye. The cut gave Dillashaw some issues in the third round as they threw strike for strike.
In the fifth round, Dillashaw came off as the aggressor with Sandhagen countering. It was this round that ultimately gave the judges the favor to TJ to come away with the victory.
3. Max Holloway vs Yair Rodriguez
Lots of face cuts and eye pokes in this fight! But the two have similar fighting styles which make this fight really fun to watch. They both have remarkable stamina and resilience.
2. Alexander Volkanovski vs Brian Ortega
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski won his 20th consecutive bout and successfully defended his belt for the second time.
We got to see a lot of take downs and grappling in this fight with these heavier fighters.
1. Justin Gaethje vs Michael Chandler
Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler are built differently which made this one so fun to watch.
Each swung at each other probably equal times, trading massive blows. It was a real close one, but Gaethje came away with the victory.
