Here are the unofficial picks for the most outstanding UFC fighters of the first half of 2024...
5 – Max Holloway
Once questioned for potentially being past his prime before his 2018 showdown with Brian Ortega, Max Holloway has since disproved doubters, amassing a record of 7-4. His exceptional performances, especially against notable fighters like Ortega, Calvin Kattar, Yair Rodriguez, Chan Sung Jung, and Justin Gaethje in April, highlight his enduring prowess. Notably, his knockout victory for the BMF title was not just a moment of triumph but a testament to Holloway's unparalleled skill and resilience in the octagon.
4 – Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev continues to solidify his reign over the lightweight division, extending his winning streak to 14 with a recent victory. In his sole 2024 appearance thus far, Makhachev showcased his dominance by submitting Dustin Poirier in the fifth round, a performance that garnered him both Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night honors.
3 – Robert Whittaker
Nearly 12 years into his UFC career, Robert Whittaker is defying expectations. His 2024 campaign includes a Fight of the Year contender against Paulo Costa and a swift victory over Ikram Aliskerov. Despite past setbacks against middleweight title contenders Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya, the Australian phenom is poised for another title shot, proving his enduring tenacity and skill.
2 – Ilia Topuria
Ilia Topuria makes a remarkable entrance onto our list with just one fight in the first six months, but what a fight it was. Toppling featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski with a second-round knockout in February, Topuria not only captured the title but also disrupted the division’s hierarchy by ending one of the most dominant reigns in its history.
1 – Alex Pereira
The consensus number one, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira secured his top spot following a sensational first-round finish of former champion Jamahal Hill in April and a stunning knockout of Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303. Known for his poise under pressure and lethal striking, Pereira continues to captivate fans and pundits alike. As whispers of a move to heavyweight grow louder, the excitement surrounding Pereira's future in the sport reaches new heights.