2024: A Year of Upsets, Triumphs, and Unforgettable Moments in the UFC
The UFC’s global footprint expanded further in 2024, with 42 events held across nine countries and 21 cities. The year was a showcase of thrilling fights, shocking upsets, and the rise of new stars, all captured in iconic images. From title changes to grudge matches and stunning knockouts, 2024 delivered a non-stop spectacle for MMA fans worldwide.
The year kicked off with Dricus du Plessis securing a controversial split decision victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 297, capturing the middleweight title. Meanwhile, Amanda Nunes watched from the sidelines as Raquel Pennington claimed the vacant bantamweight title in a lackluster performance against Mayra Bueno Silva, leaving fans yearning for Nunes’ return. February saw the emergence of Ilia Topuria, who delivered a shocking knockout victory over the seemingly invincible Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298, a card stacked with current and future contenders.
March brought "Suga’s Revenge" as Sean O’Malley avenged his earlier loss to Marlon Vera with a unanimous decision win at UFC 299. Dustin Poirier reminded the world of his elite status with a resounding knockout of rising star Benoit Saint-Denis. April was marked by Alex Pereira’s dominant performance at UFC 300, knocking out Jamahal Hill and celebrating with a Khaby Lame-inspired gesture. Max Holloway stole the show with a historic knockout of Justin Gaethje, claiming the BMF title and cementing his legacy.
May saw Alexandre Pantoja narrowly defend his flyweight title against Steve Erceg at UFC 301, with Erceg lamenting a missed opportunity in the final round. June marked the short-lived introduction of new UFC-branded gloves, which were quickly scrapped. Islam Makhachev showcased his unique grappling prowess with a D’Arce choke submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, while Conor McGregor’s absence from UFC 303 due to injury left Michael Chandler disappointed. Alex Pereira stepped up to the main event, delivering a spectacular head-kick knockout of Jiri Prochazka.
July witnessed Belal Muhammad’s triumph over Leon Edwards in London, capturing the welterweight title in enemy territory. Tom Aspinall’s callout of Jon Jones after avenging his loss to Curtis Blaydes set the stage for a future clash. August saw Dricus du Plessis submit Israel Adesanya in a heated grudge match at UFC 305, with the two fighters displaying mutual respect after the fight. September’s Noche UFC 306 was a spectacle celebrating Mexican Independence Day, featuring Merab Dvalishvili’s bantamweight title win over Sean O’Malley and a memorable brawl between Esteban Ribovics and Daniel Zellhuber.
October highlighted Alex Pereira’s continued dominance with a fourth-round stoppage of Khalil Rountree at UFC 307. Julianna Pena reclaimed the bantamweight title from Raquel Pennington, setting up a potential clash with newly signed Kayla Harrison. A double spinning backfist knockout by Shara Magomedov and Khamzat Chimaev’s brutal submission of Robert Whittaker capped off a thrilling UFC 308 in the UAE. Ilia Topuria further solidified his contender status with a knockout of Max Holloway, etching his name in UFC history.
November brought Jon Jones’ retirement of Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, with Tom Aspinall keenly observing from the crowd. Michael Chandler, despite losses to McGregor and Oliveira, delivered a memorable final-round performance at MSG. December saw Alexandre Pantoja defend his flyweight title against Kai Asakura at UFC 310, solidifying his reign. The year concluded with a sense of anticipation for the excitement and drama that 2025 would undoubtedly bring to the Octagon.
2024 was a year of dramatic shifts in the UFC landscape. Established stars faced unexpected defeats, new champions emerged, and rivalries intensified. From technical masterpieces to brutal finishes, the year showcased the diverse skillsets and unwavering determination of the athletes who step into the Octagon. The captured images serve as a visual chronicle of the year’s most defining moments, reminding us of the unpredictable nature and captivating drama that make the UFC a global phenomenon.
The year highlighted the unpredictable nature of MMA, where fortunes can change in an instant. Established champions were dethroned, rising stars solidified their positions, and unexpected finishes left fans in awe. The photographs captured the raw emotion and intensity of these moments, encapsulating the essence of the sport.
From title fights to grudge matches and stunning knockouts, the year unfolded with a series of unforgettable moments. The images serve as a visual record of the year’s highs and lows, capturing the drama and excitement that unfolded inside the Octagon.
The UFC’s global expansion continued, bringing the sport to new audiences around the world. From packed arenas to sold-out stadiums, the promotion’s reach extended to new corners of the globe, solidifying its status as a truly international phenomenon.
The year saw the rise of new contenders and the resurgence of established veterans. From unexpected upsets to dominant performances, the fighters showcased their resilience and determination, pushing the boundaries of the sport.
The photographs captured the human stories behind the fights, from the agony of defeat to the ecstasy of victory. They serve as a reminder of the sacrifices and dedication that these athletes invest in their craft, making the sport so compelling to watch.
