Cage fighting, particularly through the lens of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), has produced some of the most thrilling and unforgettable moments in combat sports history. These iconic battles have defined careers, captivated audiences, and pushed fighters to their limits. Below, we recount the most memorable cage fighting matches and the impact they had on the sport.
1. Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar (The Ultimate Fighter Finale, 2005)
This fight is often credited with launching MMA into mainstream popularity.
- Why It’s Memorable: A back-and-forth slugfest that displayed heart and determination from both fighters.
- Impact: The fight’s intensity captured a massive TV audience and helped solidify the UFC’s place in the sporting world.
- Result: Forrest Griffin won via unanimous decision, but both fighters gained legendary status.
2. Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz 2 (UFC 202, 2016)
A rematch that lived up to its hype, showcasing the best of both fighters.
- Why It’s Memorable: McGregor sought redemption after losing their first encounter. The fight featured high-paced action and incredible resilience from both fighters.
- Impact: Cemented McGregor as one of MMA’s biggest stars and established Diaz as a fan favorite.
- Result: McGregor won via majority decision in a closely contested bout.
3. Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen 1 (UFC 117, 2010)
A dramatic fight with one of the greatest comebacks in MMA history.
- Why It’s Memorable: Sonnen dominated Silva for most of the fight, only for Silva to secure a triangle choke submission in the fifth round.
- Impact: Showcased Silva’s championship mettle and ability to win under pressure.
- Result: Anderson Silva retained his middleweight title with a last-minute victory.
4. Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson 1 (UFC 165, 2013)
A fight that tested one of the greatest fighters of all time.
- Why It’s Memorable: Gustafsson pushed Jones to his limits, landing significant strikes and showcasing world-class skill.
- Impact: Elevated Gustafsson’s career and solidified Jones as a true champion.
- Result: Jon Jones won via unanimous decision in a fight considered one of the greatest in MMA history.
5. Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor (UFC 229, 2018)
A fight fueled by animosity and high stakes.
- Why It’s Memorable: The intense buildup, including personal insults and rivalry, made this fight one of the most anticipated in MMA history. Khabib dominated and submitted McGregor in the fourth round.
- Impact: Highlighted Khabib’s dominance in the lightweight division and ended with a post-fight brawl that added to the spectacle.
- Result: Khabib won via submission (neck crank).

6. Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald 2 (UFC 189, 2015)
A brutal battle that showcased heart and determination.
- Why It’s Memorable: Both fighters displayed immense toughness in a fight that left the audience in awe. The fourth round’s staredown remains iconic.
- Impact: Widely regarded as one of the best welterweight fights in history.
- Result: Robbie Lawler retained his title via TKO in the fifth round.
7. Ronda Rousey vs. Holly Holm (UFC 193, 2015)
The fight that shocked the world.
- Why It’s Memorable: Rousey entered as the undefeated champion and heavy favorite, but Holm delivered a stunning head-kick knockout.
- Impact: Signaled a shift in women’s MMA and showcased Holm’s striking skill.
- Result: Holly Holm won via KO in the second round, ending Rousey’s dominance.
8. Chuck Liddell vs. Tito Ortiz 1 (UFC 47, 2004)
A rivalry that captured the attention of the MMA world.
- Why It’s Memorable: Liddell and Ortiz’s personal feud added drama to an already exciting fight. Liddell’s striking proved too much for Ortiz.
- Impact: Helped solidify Liddell as one of MMA’s first mainstream stars.
- Result: Chuck Liddell won via TKO in the second round.
9. Dan Henderson vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua 1 (UFC 139, 2011)
An epic battle that showcased the grit of two legends.
- Why It’s Memorable: Both fighters exchanged heavy blows, with momentum swinging throughout the fight.
- Impact: Hailed as one of the greatest fights in MMA history.
- Result: Dan Henderson won via unanimous decision in a grueling five-round war.
10. BJ Penn vs. Diego Sanchez (UFC 107, 2009)
A masterclass performance by one of the greatest lightweights.
- Why It’s Memorable: Penn dominated Sanchez with precision striking and relentless pressure.
- Impact: Demonstrated Penn’s exceptional skill and solidified his legacy in the lightweight division.
- Result: BJ Penn won via TKO in the fifth round.
Conclusion
These iconic cage fighting matches are a testament to the skill, heart, and determination that define MMA. From shocking upsets to epic rivalries, these fights have left an indelible mark on the sport, captivating fans and inspiring future generations of fighters. As MMA continues to grow, these legendary moments remind us why cage fighting remains one of the most exciting and unpredictable sports in the world.