MMA has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century with the creation of various martial arts competitions. However, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that the sport began to gain mainstream attention with the advent of the UFC and the creation of its iconic octagon cage. Since then, the sport has grown exponentially, with fighters from all over the world competing for titles and glory in various promotions.

The purpose of this article is to highlight the top most epic MMA fights of all time. These fights have been selected based on their historical significance, excitement, and impact on the sport. These fights feature some of the greatest fighters in MMA history and showcase the athleticism, skill, and heart that it takes to be a top-level MMA fighter.

Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar (TUF 1 Finale, 2005)

The Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar fight at the TUF 1 Finale in 2005 is widely considered to be one of the most important and influential fights in the history of mixed martial arts. The two light heavyweights put on an epic 15-minute war that captivated audiences and helped to solidify the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) as a major player in the world of combat sports.

The fight was incredibly close, with both fighters trading strikes and grappling throughout the bout. Griffin, who was the more experienced fighter, had the edge in grappling and was able to take Bonnar down several times. However, Bonnar was able to hold his own on the ground and even threatened with a few submission attempts.

The striking was where the fight really shone, both fighters were throwing bombs from the start, and it was an absolute war. Griffin had a slight edge in power but Bonnar was the busier striker and had some success with his combinations.

In the end, Griffin was awarded the unanimous decision victory, but the fight was so exciting and evenly matched that it earned both fighters a six-figure UFC contract, and it was credited as the spark that helped bring MMA into mainstream. The fight was so good that it was said that Dana White, the president of the UFC, called it “the most important fight in UFC history” and that it saved the company.

This fight was a turning point for MMA, it helped to bring the sport to a new level of popularity and respectability. It was a true classic and will always be remembered as one of the greatest fights in MMA history.

Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald II (UFC 189, 2015)

The Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald II fight at UFC 189 in 2015 was a highly-anticipated rematch of their previous bout in 2013, which Lawler won by split decision. Both fighters were coming off of impressive winning streaks, with Lawler defending his welterweight title and MacDonald working his way up the ranks.

The fight was a back-and-forth battle of striking and grappling. Lawler, known for his heavy hands and power, came out strong, putting pressure on MacDonald and landing some heavy shots. MacDonald, known for his striking accuracy and grappling skills, was able to withstand Lawler’s early onslaught and began to find his range, connecting with some crisp strikes of his own.

In the second round, MacDonald was able to take Lawler down to the ground and control him for a significant portion of the round. Lawler, however, was able to get back to his feet and continue to press forward. The third round saw more of the same, with both fighters trading strikes and grappling exchanges.

The fourth round was a turning point in the fight, as Lawler began to land some heavy shots that visibly hurt MacDonald. Despite the damage, MacDonald continued to fight back, showing incredible toughness and heart.

The fifth round was a true war, with both fighters leaving it all in the octagon. Lawler landed a series of heavy strikes that hurt MacDonald, and followed up with a flurry of punches that forced the referee to stop the fight.

The fight was an instant classic, showcasing the skills and determination of both fighters. Lawler’s power proved to be the difference maker, but MacDonald’s heart and resilience was also on full display. It was a fantastic fight that had the crowd on its feet and will be remembered as one of the best fights in the history of the UFC welterweight division.

Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg II (UFC 52, 2005)

The Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg 2 fight at UFC 52 in 2005 was a highly-anticipated rematch between two of the top welterweights in the sport. The first fight between the two, which took place in 2004, ended in a controversial stoppage victory for Hughes. This time around, Hughes was able to secure a convincing victory with a stunning submission finish.

The fight started off with both fighters feeling each other out, with Trigg trying to keep the distance and Hughes looking to close the gap and take the fight to the ground. Hughes was able to get the fight to the ground and took Trigg’s back, but Trigg was able to escape and get back to his feet.

The striking exchanges were intense, with both fighters landing some heavy shots. Trigg was able to land some good punches and had Hughes in some trouble, but Hughes was able to take Trigg down again and take his back. This time, Hughes was able to secure a rear-naked choke and force Trigg to tap out.

The fight was a showcase of Hughes’s grappling prowess and his ability to adapt to different situations. Trigg was a tough opponent and he was able to give Hughes a run for his money but in the end Hughes was able to come out victorious.

It was a great fight and a great showcase for both fighters’ skills, it was a great way for Hughes to avenge his controversial loss from the first fight and solidify his status as one of the top welterweights in the sport. The fight also demonstrated how quickly Hughes was able to adjust and take advantage of the opportunities presented to him, which was a hallmark of his fighting style and cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats in the sport.

Mark Hunt vs. Antonio Silva I (UFC Fight Night, 2013)

The Mark Hunt vs. Antonio Silva I fight at UFC Fight Night in 2013 was an instant classic, a five-round war between two of the most powerful heavyweights in the sport. The fight was an all-out brawl that saw both fighters absorb a tremendous amount of punishment, but neither was willing to back down.

The fight started off with both fighters trading heavy shots, with Hunt showing his striking prowess and Silva displaying his power. Silva was able to take Hunt down early on, but Hunt quickly scrambled back to his feet. Silva was able to take Hunt down again later in the round, but Hunt was able to get back up again.

The second round saw Silva continue to control the grappling, but Hunt was able to land some heavy shots on the feet. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up and land some heavy punches of his own. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up again and land some heavy shots.

The third round saw Silva continue to control the grappling, but Hunt was able to land some heavy shots on the feet. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up and land some heavy punches of his own. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up and land some heavy shots.

The fourth round saw Silva continue to control the grappling, but Hunt was able to land some heavy shots on the feet. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up and land some heavy punches of his own. Silva was able to take Hunt down again, but Hunt was able to get back up and land some heavy shots.

The fifth round saw both fighters exhausted and Hunt was able to land some heavy shots on Silva who was unable to take him down. The fight ended with a majority draw, and it was considered one of the best heavyweight fights in UFC history.

Both fighters were awarded with Fight of the Night honors, and it was a testament to the heart and determination of both fighters. This fight was a true classic, and it will always be remembered as one of the best heavyweight battles in UFC history.

Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz 2 (UFC 202, 2016)

The Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz 2 fight at UFC 202 in 2016 was a highly-anticipated rematch between the two fighters, who had previously met at UFC 196 where Diaz pulled off a shock victory over McGregor. The rematch was a five-round welterweight fight that took place on August 20, 2016.

The fight was an exciting back-and-forth battle, with both fighters showing a high level of skill and determination. McGregor started off strong, using his speed and movement to outstrike Diaz in the early rounds. He also had success with his grappling, landing several takedowns and controlling Diaz on the ground.

Diaz, known for his toughness, durability, and cardio, started to come on strong in the later rounds. He was able to land some heavy shots and put McGregor in some difficult positions, but McGregor was able to survive and keep fighting.

In the end, McGregor was awarded the majority decision victory, and both fighters received “Fight of the Night” honors. It was a highly-entertaining and competitive fight that featured some of the best striking and grappling on display in the UFC.

McGregor’s striking and movement were on full display, and it was clear that he had been working hard on his grappling, which was a major weakness in the first fight. Diaz on the other hand, showed his durability and toughness, being able to take McGregor’s shots and still come back strong. This was a great fight for both fighters, and it is a testament to the skill and determination of both McGregor and Diaz.

Overall, the McGregor vs. Diaz 2 fight at UFC 202 was an exciting and competitive battle between two of the best fighters in the sport. It was a highly-entertaining and memorable fight that will be remembered for years to come as one of the greatest fights in the history of the UFC.

Conclusion

MMA has a rich history filled with epic fights and legendary fighters. The fights highlighted in this article are just a few examples of the incredible athleticism, skill, and heart that it takes to be a top-level MMA fighter. These fights have not only been selected for their historical significance, excitement, and impact on the sport, but also for the unforgettable moments and memories they left on the fans and the sport itself.

These fights will always be remembered as some of the greatest fights in MMA history and continue to inspire the next generation of fighters. Overall, MMA is a dynamic and exciting sport that continues to grow in popularity and recognition, and these epic fights are a testament to the incredible athletes and competition that the sport has to offer.