Top 5 Most Exciting Fighters in MMA Today
When evaluating the most exciting fighters in MMA today, several key factors come into play: activity level, fighting style, quality of opposition, finishing ability, and overall achievements in the sport. This list features fighters who embody the essence of peak MMA entertainment in the current era.
5. Tom Aspinall
Tom Aspinall is the reigning UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion and one of the most electrifying fighters in the division. He holds multiple UFC records, including the shortest average fight time, the second-most knockdowns per 15 minutes, and the highest number of significant strikes landed per minute.
Aspinall has finished every opponent he has faced in the UFC, except for his lone loss to Curtis Blaydes. With seven Performance of the Night awards to his name, his ability to deliver spectacular finishes is undeniable. However, his short fight durations are the only factor keeping him at No. 5, as fans love watching him in action but only get to experience it for brief moments.
4. Alex “Poatan” Pereira
Alex Pereira, the current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, is a striking phenom with a reputation for devastating knockout power and an exciting, fan-friendly style. He is the only fighter in history to be a two-division world champion in both MMA and kickboxing.
In 2024, Pereira set a UFC record for the shortest time to defend a title three times, achieving this feat in just 175 days after his victory over Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307. He broke the previous record of 189 days, set by Ronda Rousey. With his lethal kickboxing-heavy style, Pereira never fails to entertain.
3. Ilia “El Matador” Topuria
Ilia Topuria, the undefeated UFC Featherweight Champion, has taken the MMA world by storm with his dynamic and versatile fighting style. Boasting a perfect 16-0 record, he made history by knocking out both Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway—becoming the first fighter ever to finish Holloway.
Topuria is an elite fighter in every aspect, excelling in both striking and grappling. Though he has received some criticism for defeating fan-favorite fighters, his exciting and well-rounded skill set makes him one of the most thrilling competitors to watch today.
2. Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira
Charles Oliveira is widely regarded as the greatest finisher in UFC history, holding the record for the most finishes (20) and most post-fight bonuses (19) in UFC history. He also has the most Performance of the Night awards (12), further solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters of all time.
His legendary lightweight title reign included victories over top names like Tony Ferguson, Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. With elite-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and striking, Oliveira is a constant threat to end fights in spectacular fashion. Despite his loss to current champion Islam Makhachev, fans still believe he has the potential to reclaim the lightweight throne.
1. Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje
Topping the list is Justin Gaethje, a former Interim Lightweight Champion and the former BMF Champion. While the other fighters on this list are current or former undisputed champions, Gaethje’s appeal transcends titles—his fights are pure chaos, and every appearance is guaranteed entertainment.
He holds the record for the highest percentage of post-fight bonuses in UFC history, earning a bonus in over 80% of his fights. He also has the most Fight of the Night bonuses in UFC lightweight history (11). A former Division I All-American wrestler, Gaethje prefers to stand and trade, utilizing elite pressure, devastating leg kicks, and knockout power.
Considered one of the most violent and exciting fighters in MMA history, Gaethje is the ultimate must-watch fighter. No matter the outcome—knockout, submission, or decision—his fights are always unforgettable.
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