UFC Vegas events have reshaped the world of MMA, showcasing incredible fights that made the UFC Apex a must-watch venue for hardcore fans. From jaw-dropping finishes to heated rivalries, these events have created unforgettable moments in the Octagon, making each Vegas Fight Night something truly special. As we approach UFC Vegas 100, let’s take a look back at the top 10 fights that left fans speechless from UFC Vegas 1 to UFC Vegas 99.
Covington vs. Woodley: The Grudge Match Showdown
This fight was long-anticipated, with Colby Covington and Tyron Woodley carrying a heated rivalry stemming from both personal and professional tensions. Both fighters needed a win to make their mark in the welterweight division.
Covington dominated Woodley with relentless pressure, controlling the fight until an injury forced Woodley to stop in the fifth round. Covington’s ground control and output were unmatched, emphasizing his elite endurance and skill. This fight ended a fierce rivalry and solidified Covington’s claim as a top contender, marking a significant moment in UFC Vegas history.
Holland vs. Souza: The Knockout That Defied Gravity
Kevin Holland, known for his striking skills, faced the seasoned grappler Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza. It was a classic striker-vs-grappler matchup with high stakes for both fighters.
In one of the most memorable knockouts, Holland landed a brutal right hand while still on his back, sending Souza crashing to the mat. It was a KO unlike any other, showcasing Holland’s power and unpredictability. The KO’s unique delivery and shock factor make this a standout moment that UFC fans will remember for years to come.
Chimaev vs. Meerschaert: The Lightning-Quick Finish
Rising star Khamzat Chimaev was on a fast track to the top, with two dominant finishes in just 10 days prior. Facing veteran Gerald Meerschaert, fans were eager to see if Chimaev’s hype was real.
Chimaev made a statement with a devastating first-punch knockout in just 17 seconds, marking one of the fastest finishes in UFC Vegas history. This win showcased Chimaev’s raw power and solidified him as a true threat in the division, making it one of the most memorable finishes at the Apex.
Blaydes vs. Volkov: A Heavyweight Marathon
Curtis Blaydes and Alexander Volkov squared off in a heavyweight bout that promised power and grit. Both fighters were hungry for a title shot, adding stakes to this clash of giants.
Blaydes demonstrated exceptional wrestling, setting a UFC heavyweight record for takedowns in a fight, while Volkov fought hard to stay in the game. The fight’s grueling pace and Blaydes' domination through relentless takedowns made this a landmark in the UFC Apex’s heavyweight battles.
Thompson vs. Neal: A Striking Showcase
Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson and Geoff Neal, two skilled strikers, met in a welterweight bout that promised high-level standup action. Neal looked to prove himself against the former title challenger, while Thompson sought to solidify his place in the division.
Thompson’s fluid movement and pinpoint accuracy were on full display, giving fans a striking clinic and ultimately leading him to a decision victory. Thompson’s masterclass performance reminded fans why he’s one of the best strikers in the UFC, making this a memorable event at the Apex.
Edwards vs. Muhammad: The Fight with a Dramatic Ending
Leon Edwards, on an eight-fight winning streak, faced Belal Muhammad in a fight with serious welterweight implications. Both fighters were eager to make a statement.
The bout was intense from the start, but it ended abruptly in the second round due to an accidental eye poke, leaving fans with an unfinished clash. Despite its controversial ending, this fight sparked discussions across the MMA community and left fans wanting a rematch.
Brunson vs. Shahbazyan: The Veteran Upset
Rising star Edmen Shahbazyan was hyped as the next big middleweight, but he had to face Derek Brunson, a proven veteran, to prove it.
Brunson’s experience showed as he wore down Shahbazyan with ground control and eventually finished him in the third round, ending the prospect’s winning streak. Brunson’s ability to outlast and defeat a rising star showed that he was still a force in the division, creating a memorable upset at the Apex.
Luque vs. Brown: A Brawl to Remember
Vicente Luque and Randy Brown, two exciting welterweights, promised an action-packed fight with both men looking to climb the ranks.
Luque’s heavy strikes and Brown’s resilience turned this into an explosive battle, ending with Luque’s knee knockout in the second round. This fight had everything fans love—intensity, skill, and a jaw-dropping finish that earned Luque a memorable win.
Holland vs. Buckley: The Breakout Performance
Kevin Holland and Joaquin Buckley, both known for their exciting styles, squared off in a middleweight bout that promised fireworks.
Holland’s precision and swagger were in full swing as he knocked out Buckley in the third round, showcasing his elite striking. This was a breakout moment for Holland, solidifying him as a fan favorite and making this fight one of the most entertaining at the Apex.
Gaethje vs. Ferguson: The Epic Battle of Attrition
Justin Gaethje and Tony Ferguson headlined UFC Vegas 1 in an interim title fight with high stakes. Both men were known for their resilience and toughness.
Gaethje delivered a career-defining performance, landing heavy strikes on Ferguson and eventually winning via TKO in the fifth round. This brutal battle is remembered for its heart, grit, and Gaethje’s dominance, setting the tone for UFC Vegas events and securing its spot as the most memorable fight at the Apex.