The UFC, much like any other sport, has seen numerous rivalries over the years. While championships and rankings do matter, it’s the personal feuds that capture fans and elevate fights into historic moments.
They also give some storylines that only seem possible in the movies. While some rivalries in the UFC were fueled by pride, others happened because of personality clashes. Moreover, these rivalries didn’t just produce memorable fights; they also helped shape the sport of MMA. That said, let’s take a look at some of the biggest UFC rivalries below.
Top 3 UFC rivalries
Conor McGregor vs Khabib Nurmagomedov
Even if you don’t follow the sport of MMA, there’s a chance that you might have heard about this feud. It is widely considered to be one of the biggest UFC rivalries of all time.
Their rivalry went beyond the octagon; there were heated press conferences, personal insults, religious remarks, and more. When the two finally fought in 2018, the event became one of the biggest PPV cards in UFC history. In the fight, Nurmagomedov dominated the fight and secured a submission victory.
However, the rivalry became even more memorable after the chaotic post-fight brawl that followed. Even today, it remains one of the most talked-about moments in UFC history.
ABSOLUTE CHAOS
Khabib goes into the stands and fights a member of McGregor’s team
Member of Nurmagomedov’s team strikes Conor in the Octagon pic.twitter.com/G7BGNhnoou
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 7, 2018
Jon Jones vs Daniel Cormier
Anthoner rivalry that comes to mind when speaking about the biggest UFC rivalries is the feud between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier. Both fighters were in their prime, and it made their clashes extremely competitive.
However, what made this rivalry special was the genuine dislike between Jones and Cormier. Their heated exchanges during interviews and press conferences showed that the tension was very real. It is worth noting that Jones won both of their encounters inside the Octagon.
It's not over with Jon Jones and it never will be, Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) says.
"E:60" preview: https://t.co/wIUtJ6ioz8 pic.twitter.com/eddUrPgcs3
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) August 9, 2019
Israel Adesanya vs Alex Pereira
Considered to be one of the most compelling modern UFC rivalries is between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira. Their story began in kickboxing, where Pereira defeated Adesanya twice. Adesanya transitioned to the UFC first and became a world champion. However, Pereira came a few years later.
ISRAEL ADESANYA KNOCKS ALEX PEREIRA OUT COLD! 🥶
🏆 @Stylebender WITH THE SWEETEST VICTORY OF HIS CAREER! #UFC287 pic.twitter.com/2QnUA9JJVi
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) April 9, 2023
Pereira later knocked out Adesanya to capture the UFC middleweight title. However, Adesanya redeemed himself by winning the rematch in spectacular fashion. This rivalry showcased the dramatic twists that make combat sports so exciting.
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