10 Gifts Fight Fans Received in 2024
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2024 was a big year for MMA, with fight fans treated to thrilling matchups, stacked PPV cards, innovative events, and the rise of new superstars. From heartwarming moments to jaw-dropping surprises, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 gifts the fight game delivered this year—just in time for the holidays.
After all, the season is about appreciating what we have, not dwelling on what we don’t.
Francis Ngannou Returns To MMA
In one of the best feel-good moments of 2024, Francis Ngannou made his highly anticipated return to MMA after enduring a year of unimaginable hardship. Ngannou tragically lost his 15-month-old son, Kobe earlier this year. He faced the emotional toll of mourning while recovering from the first knockout loss of his career. Despite the immense pressure surrounding his comeback, he successfully defended his lineal heavyweight championship against Renan Ferreira. Known as one of the sport’s genuinely good guys, Ngannou’s triumphant return was a beautiful moment to witness.
Noche UFC Inside The Sphere
Noche UFC might be one of the coolest things fight fans have experienced in the UFC’s 30-plus-year history. It felt like a gift from Dana White to the fans. The graphics and transitions were stunning, and the storytelling—seamlessly tying Mexican heritage into the fights—was nothing short of perfect. The incredible fights were the cherry on top. Hopefully, this isn’t a one-time spectacle and we get spoiled with more events like this in the future. Ideally, an event at the Sphere becomes a recurring tradition, happening at least every two years.
The New Unified MMA Rules
Now, onto one of the best gifts of the year: The new unified MMA rules. These changes weren’t just overdue—they’ve been a game changer. Cody Gibson made history as the first UFC fighter to win a fight with a legal 12-6 elbow at UFC Fight Night 246 in Edmonton, Alberta, on November 2, 2024. Another significant update addressed the definition of a downed opponent. Under the new rule, a fighter is only considered downed if any part of their body other than their hands or feet is touching the mat. This eliminates the loophole of fighters placing one hand on the mat to avoid knees, requiring them to get a knee or elbow down instead. No more confusion about which states follow which rules—this is a big win for consistency and fairness in MMA.
Conor McGregor Becomes Part Owner of BKFC
Love him or hate him, Conor McGregor becoming part owner of BKFC has already proven transformative. His star power has not only brought unprecedented attention to the promotion. It has also attracted new sponsors, fueling its expansion into new markets. As a result, BKFC champions are finally receiving the recognition and respect they’ve long deserved. In a year of major milestones for the organization, McGregor’s involvement stands out as the most significant and unexpected. BKFC has solidified itself as a legitimate force in combat sports—and it’s here to stay.
Bellator vs. PFL Champions
Technically, this was one of the biggest cross-promotion cards in recent MMA history—if you think about it. When PFL acquired Bellator, they gained a stacked roster capable of matching their own talent. This card showcased champions from both promotions facing off to determine who truly stood at the top. Renan Ferreira secured the lone PFL victory with a finish over Ryan Bader. Johnny Eblen went on to defeat Impa Kasanganay, and Jason Jackson finished Ray Cooper III. While not a traditional cross-promotion since one company absorbed the other, it was still refreshing to see these matchups materialize. This was absolutely a gift for us, so here’s to hoping for more events like this in 2025.
Notable Names From Other Promotions Make UFC Debut
When you think about it, 2024 was one of the best years for MMA free agency. The UFC made a major move by signing Kayla Harrison, the PFL’s poster child. They also surprised everyone by acquiring Reinier de Ridder from ONE Championship. We saw RIZIN’s Kai Asakura challenge for the UFC flyweight title in his debut. We even got to witness the exciting Bellator’s Michael “Venom” Page in UFC shorts. Given how rare cross-promotion events are in MMA, it was a true gift to see these big names step into the UFC and test themselves at the highest level.
Dakota Ditcheva Becomes The Biggest Flyweight Prospect
Exit Kayla Harrison. Enter Dakota Ditcheva. While new superstars are becoming increasingly rare, the rise of women into the MMA spotlight has been even rarer. Ditcheva, however, climbed her way to the top in spectacular fashion. She capped off her year by claiming the inaugural PFL Flyweight Championship. She dominated the competition, completing a flawless season and defeating a former UFC title contender to secure the belt—a triumph that must have been especially sweet. It’s clear she’s on her way to becoming the face of the organization. Earning a second million-dollar prize along the way doesn’t hurt. Dakota’s breakout in 2024 is exactly what the flyweight division—and the PFL as a whole—needed.
Max Holloway Knockouts Justin Gaethje at UFC 300
Does this even need an explanation? Max Holloway knocking out Justin Gaethje cold was one of the most jaw-dropping moments in MMA history. With the BMF Championship on the line, the finish felt perfectly fitting for the title of the Baddest Mother F***er. It’s a moment that will live on forever, one that has undoubtedly cemented itself as one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history.
Alex Periera & Ilia Topuria Break Through To Superstardom
In today’s MMA landscape, breaking into the mainstream is no easy feat. Fighters often need to seize the right moment or conquer the toughest competition to achieve a level of recognition that many fail to reach in the UFC. That’s why one of the highlights for fight fans this year was witnessing the meteoric rise of Alex Pereira and Ilia Topuria. Both had incredible years marked by unforgettable knockouts and growing recognition beyond the MMA world. With the UFC often struggling to cultivate new stars, it was refreshing to see these two break through and capture the spotlight in 2024.
Road House Remake
Not everyone will agree, but the Road House remake couldn’t have come at a better time. Conor McGregor made his acting debut in the Amazon Prime film, delivering a dynamic performance as the movie’s villain. His character, Knox, felt like McGregor dialed up to 100—a larger-than-life persona with a ruthless edge. While he started off a bit awkward, you could see his confidence grow as the film progressed. A sequel would be exciting, though it’s unclear if that’s on the horizon. Regardless, McGregor’s Hollywood debut not only showcased his versatility. But it also opened the door for others in the fight community to explore similar opportunities. For his first movie, McGregor delivered, offering fans a fun remake of an absolute classic.
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Great article! I agree with all 10!