As the UFC wraps up 2024, December promises to be a barnburner with marquee matchups, title fights, and must-see bouts that will shape the future of various divisions. From undefeated contenders clashing to seasoned veterans proving their mettle, here are the top 10 fights that have every MMA fan buzzing.
UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura
1. Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura
Event Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
This Flyweight Championship bout headlines UFC 310 as reigning champ Alexandre Pantoja faces Rizin standout Kai Asakura in a classic grappler-vs-striker showdown. Can Pantoja defend his throne for the third time, or will Asakura’s striking prowess deliver a stunning upset?
2. Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry
Two undefeated welterweight titans, Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry, collide in a high-stakes co-main event. With a title shot hanging in the balance, this showdown promises fireworks as both fighters put their spotless records on the line.
3. Movsar Evloev vs. Aljamain Sterling
Former Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling tests the waters in his second featherweight bout against the unbeaten grappling ace Movsar Evloev. This pivotal fight could determine the next big contender in the highly competitive 145-pound division.
4. Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov
A heavyweight rematch with huge implications, Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov face off in a battle of elite strikers. Both fighters have made adjustments since their first encounter, making this a can't-miss clash.
5. Randy Brown vs. Bryan Battle – UFC 310
Welterweights Randy Brown and Bryan Battle clash in a bout with ranking implications. Brown’s technical prowess meets Battle’s aggressive style, setting the stage for a thrilling fight that could elevate the winner into the welterweight rankings.
UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley
1. Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley
Event Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 | Location: Tampa, Florida
The brash and battle-tested Colby Covington headlines the final UFC event of the year against the surging welterweight star Joaquin Buckley. With Buckley riding a five-fight win streak, including a knockout of Stephen Thompson, can he topple one of the division’s most durable veterans?
2. Amanda Ribas vs. Mackenzie Dern 2
In a rematch five years in the making, strawweight contenders Amanda Ribas and Mackenzie Dern square off once again. Both fighters are looking to climb back into title contention, making this bout as strategic as it is personal.
3. Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva
Expect fireworks in this flyweight matchup as the enigmatic Manel Kape takes on the surging Bruno Silva. With Kape’s dynamic striking and Silva’s finishing ability, this bout could steal the show in Tampa.
4. Sean Woodson vs. Fernando Padilla
Two tall, rangy featherweights, Sean Woodson and Fernando Padilla, go head-to-head in a stylistic dream matchup. Both fighters are looking to crack the division’s Top 15, adding even more stakes to this exciting clash.
5. Joel Alvarez vs. Drakkar Klose – UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley
Lightweight sleepers Joel Alvarez and Drakkar Klose meet in a bout that promises high-level grappling exchanges and striking precision. Each fighter is riding momentum, making this a key fight to watch in the stacked 155-pound division.
This lineup showcases a perfect blend of title fights, grudge matches, and rising contenders staking their claim in the sport. Whether it’s Pantoja defending his legacy, Covington trying to hold off the red-hot Buckley, or the epic Rakhmonov vs. Garry clash, December is set to close 2024 with a bang.
Don’t miss a second of the action — mark your calendars for these electrifying events!