The year 2023 was a thrilling one for UFC fans, with several epic superfights that left us wanting more. From the legendary clash between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira to Jon Jones' domination in the heavyweight division, it was a year to remember. As we approach 2024, it's time to speculate on the potential superfights that could take place in the coming year. While nothing is official yet, there are some enticing matchups on the horizon. Let's dive into the possibilities.
1. Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall: The Clash of Champions
Jon Jones, widely regarded as the greatest MMA fighter of all time, claimed the UFC's vacant heavyweight title with a submission win over Ciryl Gane in March. His first title defense against Stipe Miocic was postponed due to an injury, creating an opportunity for top contender Tom Aspinall to shine. Aspinall's impressive victory over Sergei Pavlovich earned him the interim heavyweight belt, making him a champion in his own right.
Instead of booking a Jones vs. Miocic rematch, the UFC should consider pitting Jones against Aspinall. It would be a clash of champions, an opportunity to determine the true king of the heavyweight division. This matchup is not only a must-see for fans but also a chance to showcase the skills of a new generation of heavyweights. The fight could go either way, making it a tantalizing prospect for MMA enthusiasts worldwide.
2. Islam Makhachev vs. The Welterweight Champion: A Move Up in Weight
Islam Makhachev, the current lightweight champion, successfully defended his title twice against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in 2023. After settling his rivalry with Volkanovski, Makhachev is now the UFC's No. 1-ranked pound-for-pound fighter. While he has several top lightweight contenders waiting for a shot at his title, Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to the welterweight division for a chance at a second title.
By the end of 2024, the welterweight title may be held by a different champion, as Leon Edwards is set to defend his belt against Colby Covington. Regardless of who holds the title, a matchup between Makhachev and the welterweight champion would be a massive fight. It would test Makhachev's skills against a larger opponent and provide an exciting challenge for both fighters. Whether it's Edwards, Covington, or someone else, this superfight has the potential to captivate the MMA world.
3. Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler: The Return of the Irishman
Conor McGregor, the biggest star in MMA, aims to make a comeback in the first half of 2024 after a leg injury forced him out of action since July 2022. While his popularity may have waned slightly, any fight involving McGregor is still considered a superfight. The timing of his return is uncertain, but it's likely to be a highly anticipated event.
One potential opponent for McGregor is Michael Chandler, a former lightweight champion in Bellator. Both McGregor and Chandler bring a wealth of experience and highlight-reel knockout power to the Octagon. While it may not be as significant as a trilogy fight against Nate Diaz, a matchup between McGregor and Chandler would undoubtedly draw massive attention and potentially surpass the one million pay-per-view mark.
4. Sean O'Malley vs. Alexander Volkanovski: A Unique Challenge
Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning featherweight champion, has successfully defended his belt five times against top-tier opposition. After his upcoming title defense against Ilia Topuria, the list of challengers in the featherweight division may become scarce. This situation presents an opportunity for the UFC to get creative with Volkanovski's matchups.
One intriguing possibility is a fight between Volkanovski and bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley. O'Malley recently won the bantamweight belt with a knockout victory over Aljamain Sterling and is set to defend his title against Marlon Vera. While it may seem premature to consider O'Malley for a second title shot, his immense popularity among fans and the lack of challengers for Volkanovski could make this matchup a reality in 2024.
5. Other Exciting Fights on the Horizon
While the four superfights mentioned above are the most enticing prospects for 2024, there are other matchups that could also capture the attention of MMA fans. Here are a few honorable mentions:
Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane: A Heavyweight Showdown
If Jon Jones' return to the heavyweight division doesn't materialize, a matchup between Francis Ngannou and Ciryl Gane would be a thrilling alternative. Ngannou, the former heavyweight champion, and Gane, the interim champion, have both showcased their devastating knockout power. This clash of giants would undoubtedly be a spectacle worth watching.
Amanda Nunes vs. Valentina Shevchenko 3: The Trilogy
Amanda Nunes, the undisputed women's featherweight and bantamweight champion, has already defeated Valentina Shevchenko twice. However, given their dominance in their respective divisions, a trilogy fight would be a highly anticipated matchup. Nunes vs. Shevchenko 3 could determine once and for all who is the greatest women's fighter of all time.
Kamaru Usman vs. Robert Whittaker: Champion vs. Champion
Kamaru Usman, the dominant welterweight champion, and Robert Whittaker, the former middleweight champion, have both solidified their positions as the best in their divisions. A champion vs. champion matchup between Usman and Whittaker would be a clash of styles and a true test of their skills. This fight could potentially become an instant classic.
Conclusion
As we look forward to the year 2024, the UFC has the potential to deliver some incredible superfights that will captivate fans around the world. Whether it's Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall in a clash of champions, Islam Makhachev's move up to welterweight, Conor McGregor's return against Michael Chandler, or Alexander Volkanovski facing off against Sean O'Malley, there is no shortage of exciting matchups on the horizon. Additionally, fights like Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane and Amanda Nunes vs. Valentina Shevchenko 3 could add even more excitement to the mix. MMA fans have much to anticipate in the coming year, and these potential superfights will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the sport.
