Most Controversial UFC Fights: Memorable Moments with Debate
Squadnet Team
2023-07-27
In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has had its fair share of thrilling moments and unforgettable encounters. However, some fights stand out not only for their action but also for the controversies surrounding them. From contentious judging decisions to questionable stoppages, these bouts have sparked heated debates among fans and pundits alike. In this article, we'll explore the most controversial UFC fights that have left a lasting impact on the sport and ignited passionate discussions.
Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson I (UFC 165)
The light heavyweight title clash between Jon "Bones" Jones and Alexander "The Mauler" Gustafsson at UFC 165 in September 2013 remains one of the most contentious fights in UFC history. Gustafsson, considered a heavy underdog, shocked the MMA world with his dominant performance against the reigning champion, Jones.
The closely contested bout saw Gustafsson use his reach advantage to land significant strikes and take Jones down for the first time in his UFC career. In response, Jones pushed forward in the later rounds, landing some impactful shots of his own. The fight ended in a unanimous decision victory for Jon Jones, but many fans and analysts believed Gustafsson had done enough to win.
The controversial outcome led to an immediate rematch between the two fighters, which Jones won more convincingly. Nevertheless, the first encounter between Jones and Gustafsson remains a hot topic for debate among fans who argue that Gustafsson deserved the win.
Demetrious Johnson vs. Henry Cejudo II (UFC 227)
In August 2018, flyweight champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson faced Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 227. Their first fight had ended in a close split decision win for Johnson. The rematch was equally competitive, with both fighters showcasing their skills in the Octagon.
As the bout reached the championship rounds, Cejudo managed to secure takedowns and control Johnson on the ground. In the end, Cejudo won the fight via a split decision, dethroning Johnson and becoming the new flyweight champion. However, the decision drew controversy, with some fans and experts arguing that Johnson had done enough to retain his title.
The controversy surrounding this fight further fueled the debate on judging criteria in MMA and highlighted the subjectivity of scoring in closely contested bouts.
Michael Bisping vs. Dan Henderson II (UFC 204)
UFC 204 in October 2016 featured a middleweight title fight between champion Michael Bisping and MMA legend Dan Henderson. Their first encounter, at UFC 100 in 2009, had resulted in a brutal knockout victory for Henderson. The rematch was a hard-fought affair, with both fighters showing tremendous heart and determination.
Henderson came close to replicating his previous success, landing his signature "H-Bomb" right hand on Bisping multiple times throughout the fight. Despite absorbing significant damage, Bisping managed to survive and retaliate with his striking and clinch work. The contest went the distance, and in a unanimous decision, Bisping retained his title.
The result sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some arguing that Henderson's powerful strikes should have earned him the win, while others felt that Bisping's overall performance and resilience justified the judges' decision.
Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen I (UFC 117)
At UFC 117 in August 2010, middleweight champion Anderson "The Spider" Silva faced Chael Sonnen in a highly anticipated title bout. Sonnen dominated Silva for almost the entire fight with his relentless wrestling and ground-and-pound, while Silva struggled to find his rhythm. With just two minutes remaining in the fifth and final round, Silva secured a triangle choke submission, forcing Sonnen to tap out.
While Silva's comeback victory was nothing short of remarkable, the result was not without controversy. Sonnen's performance had been so dominant that some questioned whether Silva's late submission was a result of an illegal knee thrown by Silva earlier in the bout. However, the knee was not ruled illegal by the referee or the judges, and Silva's win stood.
Controversial UFC fights have become an integral part of the sport's history, generating passionate discussions and sparking debates that endure long after the fights themselves. From Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson I to Demetrious Johnson vs. Henry Cejudo II, and from Michael Bisping vs. Dan Henderson II to Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen I, these memorable moments have left an indelible mark on the sport.
While controversies will always be part of combat sports, they serve as a reminder of the subjectivity involved in judging and the unpredictable nature of MMA. As the UFC continues to deliver high-stakes matchups and thrilling encounters, fans can expect more memorable moments that will fuel the debates and keep the sport of MMA vibrant and exciting for years to come.
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