The world of MMA in 2024 has been nothing short of spectacular, offering fans some of the most intense, dramatic, and skillful fights ever seen. Here’s a look at the best battles of the year so far that have left us all in awe.

This highly anticipated bout between Israel Adesanya and Khamzat Chimaev lived up to the hype, showcasing a brilliant display of striking and grappling. Adesanya retained his title in a split decision after a five-round war that had fans on the edge of their seats. Chimaev’s relentless pressure and Adesanya’s precise counter-striking made this a fight to remember.

The third encounter between Amanda Nunes and Valentina Shevchenko was a masterclass in MMA. Both fighters demonstrated why they are among the greatest in women’s MMA history. Nunes managed to edge out a razor-thin decision in a technical and hard-fought battle that left fans calling for a potential fourth match.

Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje delivered a high-octane clash that had fans glued to their screens. Oliveira’s submission skills and striking were on full display as he secured a rear-naked choke in the third round, overcoming Gaethje’s relentless pace and power.

The rematch between Francis Ngannou and Ciryl Gane was another heavyweight classic. Ngannou’s raw power eventually overcame Gane’s technical prowess, with a stunning knockout in the fourth round that kept Ngannou’s title reign intact and thrilled fans around the world.

Rose Namajunas and Weili Zhang’s third fight was an epic showcase of skill and determination. Namajunas’ striking and Zhang’s aggression made for a back-and-forth battle that went the distance, with Namajunas earning a unanimous decision in one of the best strawweight fights ever.

Conor McGregor’s return to the octagon against Michael Chandler was nothing short of explosive. Both fighters exchanged heavy blows, but it was McGregor who landed a second-round knockout, marking his comeback with a bang and leaving fans eager for his next fight.

Max Holloway and Calvin Kattar’s rematch showcased the incredible depth of the featherweight division. Holloway’s relentless pace and volume were met with Kattar’s toughness and counter-striking, resulting in a unanimous decision win for Holloway that further solidified his status as a top contender.

The third bout between Aljamain Sterling and Petr Yan was a grueling battle that saw Sterling retain his title by decision. The fight was filled with high-level grappling and striking, capping off one of the most heated rivalries in the bantamweight division.

The rematch between Jiri Prochazka and Glover Teixeira delivered another thrilling encounter. Prochazka’s unorthodox striking and Teixeira’s grappling made for a compelling contest that ended with Prochazka securing a TKO victory in the fourth round, solidifying his place atop the light heavyweight division.

Brandon Moreno and Deiveson Figueiredo’s fourth fight was another exciting chapter in their storied rivalry. Moreno’s dynamic striking and Figueiredo’s power were on full display, with Moreno edging out a split decision to retain his title and continue their epic saga.

These fights have defined the MMA landscape in 2024, offering fans around the globe some of the most memorable moments in the sport’s history. As the year progresses, the excitement and anticipation for what comes next only continue to build.