Natalia Rivera’s Top 5 Fights
Highlighting the latest news in the combat sports world is Natalia Rivera. She is an edgy Peruvian MMA expert, practicing attorney, and ex-Fox UFC commentator. Rivera continues to give her expert insight on the sport she loves. Today, she reveals exactly which matches are the best to consider for your own ultimate list. Let’s dive into her legendary rankings!
5. Zhang Weili vs Joanna Jędrzejczyk
Zhang Weili defeated Joanna Jędrzejczyk by a razor-thin split decision at UFC 248 on March 7, 2020. Fans widely regard this match as one of the greatest fights in MMA history. This brutal five-round strawweight title war saw Zhang retain her championship after an unbelievable back-and-forth battle.
The clash left both fighters severely battered. It famously caused a massive hematoma on Jędrzejczyk’s forehead. However, Joanna Jędrzejczyk ultimately cemented her incredible legacy. She was officially inducted into the 2026 UFC Hall of Fame during International Fight Week for UFC 329: McGregor Vs Holloway.
4. Cub Swanson vs Doo Ho Choi
UFC President Dana White famously called the showdown between Cub Swanson and Doo Ho Choi one of the greatest fights of all time. This match was an absolute war for all three rounds. Both guys left everything they had inside the Octagon. It was an incredible display of heart, endurance, and determination. In fact, it easily earned the prestigious 2016 Fight of the Year award.
This featured main card bout took place at UFC 206 on December 10, 2016, at the Air Canada Center in Toronto. Swanson and Choi entered the event on winning streaks of two and 12, respectively. Swanson stepped in ranked #4 with a 23-7 record, boasting victories over current lightweight champion Charles Oliveira and former interim champion Dustin Poirier. Meanwhile, the #11 ranked Choi brought a stellar 14-1 overall record into the cage.
3. Justin Gaethje vs Micheal Johnson
Justin Gaethje defeated Michael Johnson by a devastating knockout at 4:48 of the second round. This unforgettable clash took place on July 7, 2017, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Held at The Ultimate Fighter 25 Finale, this high-stakes bout actually served as Justin Gaethje’s promotional debut in the UFC. He certainly made a violent and lasting statement right out of the gate.
2. Robbie Lawler vs Carlos Condit
Robbie Lawler defeated Carlos Condit via split decision on January 2, 2016, at UFC 195 in Las Vegas. This hard-fought victory allowed Lawler to retain the UFC Welterweight Championship in an acclaimed, high-action bout. This marked Lawler’s second successful title defense at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Unsurprisingly, the match took home Fight of the Night honors.
Both fighters threw a high volume of heavy strikes across all five grueling rounds. Condit utilized forward kick combinations and relentless volume to push the pace. On the other side, Lawler landed heavy counters and mounted a massive late surge to sway the judges.
1. The Ultimate Number One Pick
Are you wondering what tops this incredible list? You have to see the final breakdown to believe it. Go watch the latest video reel by Natalia Rivera to find out exactly which fight made it to her number one spot. Watch the video now to complete the top 5!
