The Top 5 Must-See MMA Cards of the Year: Get Ready for Epic Fights!

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has become one of the most popular combat sports in the world, captivating audiences with its blend of striking and grappling techniques. With a wide range of promotions showcasing top-level talent, there is always an exciting event on the horizon. In the coming weeks, fans can look forward to a series of thrilling matchups across various promotions, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Bellator, ONE Championship, Professional Fighters League (PFL), Combate Global, Cage Warriors, Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA), Invicta FC, Glory, and Rizin Fighting Federation.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 264: McGregor vs. Poirier 3

The highly anticipated trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier will headline UFC 264 on July 10th. This rivalry began in 2014 when McGregor knocked out Poirier in the first round. However, Poirier got his revenge earlier this year with a second-round TKO victory. Now, they will settle the score once and for all.

Both fighters have evolved since their first meeting. McGregor has become one of the biggest stars in combat sports and has showcased his striking prowess throughout his career. Poirier, on the other hand, has developed into a well-rounded fighter with excellent boxing and a dangerous ground game.

In this trilogy fight, expect fireworks from start to finish. McGregor will look to use his precision striking and knockout power to finish Poirier early. However, Poirier’s durability and improved grappling skills could pose problems for McGregor. It will be a battle of styles and mental fortitude as they vie for supremacy in the lightweight division.

Bellator 263: Pitbull vs. McKee – The Battle for Featherweight Supremacy

Bellator’s featherweight division is stacked with talent, and the title fight between Patricio Pitbull and AJ McKee promises to be a thrilling encounter. Pitbull, the reigning champion, has been dominant in his title reign, defeating some of the best fighters in the division. McKee, on the other hand, is an undefeated rising star with a diverse skill set.

Pitbull is known for his explosive knockout power and aggressive fighting style. He possesses excellent boxing skills and is a threat on the ground with his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. McKee, on the other hand, is a dynamic striker with a wide array of techniques. He also has a strong wrestling background, which could be a key factor in this matchup.

This fight has all the makings of a classic clash between two elite fighters. Pitbull’s experience and power will be tested by McKee’s youth and athleticism. It will be a battle of wits and skill as they compete for featherweight supremacy in Bellator.

ONE Championship: Empower – The First All-Female MMA Event

ONE Championship is set to make history with its first all-female MMA event, Empower, on September 3rd. This event is a significant milestone for women’s MMA and highlights the growing popularity and recognition of female fighters in the sport.

Empower will feature a stacked card with some of the best female fighters from around the world. The matchups will showcase the diverse skill sets and fighting styles that women bring to the sport. Fans can expect high-level striking, grappling, and overall athleticism from these talented athletes.

This event not only provides a platform for female fighters to showcase their skills but also serves as an inspiration for young girls who aspire to compete in combat sports. It is a testament to the progress that women have made in MMA and sets the stage for even more opportunities in the future.

Professional Fighters League (PFL) 6: Playoffs – Who Will Make it to the Championship?

The PFL has a unique playoff format that sets it apart from other promotions. Fighters accumulate points throughout the regular season based on their performance, with the top eight in each weight class advancing to the playoffs. The playoffs consist of a single-elimination tournament, with the winners advancing to the championship.

PFL 6 will feature the playoffs for multiple weight classes, including featherweight, lightweight, and welterweight. The fighters will be hungry to secure their spot in the championship and compete for the coveted PFL title and a million-dollar prize.

The matchups in the playoffs are always intriguing, as fighters who have already faced each other in the regular season have a chance to seek redemption or prove their dominance once again. It will be a battle of skill, strategy, and heart as these fighters leave it all on the line for a shot at glory.

Combate Global: Tito Ortiz vs. Alberto El Patron – A Clash of Legends

Combate Global is known for its exciting matchups and unique events, and the clash between Tito Ortiz and Alberto El Patron is no exception. Ortiz, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, and El Patron, a former professional wrestler, will face off in a highly anticipated bout.

Ortiz is known for his aggressive fighting style and ground-and-pound tactics. He has faced some of the biggest names in MMA and has proven himself as one of the sport’s legends. El Patron, on the other hand, brings his wrestling background and charisma to the cage. While he may be new to MMA, he is no stranger to combat sports.

This fight is a clash of two larger-than-life personalities and will undoubtedly draw attention from fans around the world. It will be interesting to see how El Patron’s wrestling skills translate to MMA and if Ortiz can continue his winning ways against a formidable opponent.

Cage Warriors 126: The Return of Paddy Pimblett

Cage Warriors has long been a breeding ground for future stars in MMA, and Paddy Pimblett is a prime example. Pimblett rose to fame in the promotion and became one of its most popular fighters before signing with the UFC. Now, he is set to make his return to Cage Warriors at their 126th event.

Pimblett is known for his exciting fighting style and charismatic personality. He possesses excellent striking and submission skills, making him a threat wherever the fight goes. His return to Cage Warriors will undoubtedly be met with enthusiasm from fans who have followed his career from the beginning.

It will be interesting to see how Pimblett performs in his return to the promotion that helped launch his career. This fight will serve as a reminder of his talent and potential as he looks to make a statement on his path back to the UFC.

Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) 113: The Future Stars of MMA

The LFA has established itself as one of the premier promotions for developing young talent in MMA. LFA 113 will showcase some of the best up-and-coming fighters in the sport as they compete for recognition and a chance to make it to the big stage.

The fights on the card will feature a mix of striking, grappling, and overall athleticism. These fighters are hungry to prove themselves and make a name for themselves in the MMA world. Fans can expect high-level action and potential future stars on display.

Keep an eye out for standout performances from fighters who could be making waves in the sport in the years to come. The LFA has a track record of producing top-level talent, and LFA 113 will be no exception.

Invicta FC: Phoenix Series 5 – The Strawweight Tournament Finals

Invicta FC has been at the forefront of women’s MMA, providing a platform for female fighters to showcase their skills. The Phoenix Series tournaments have been a highlight of the promotion, and the strawweight tournament finals promise to deliver another exciting night of action.

The tournament format allows fighters to compete multiple times in one night, showcasing their skills and endurance. The finals will feature the top fighters in the strawweight division, all vying for the tournament championship and a shot at the title.

Fans can expect high-paced action and technical skill from these fighters. The strawweight division is known for its depth and talent, and the finals of the Phoenix Series will be a showcase of the best that Invicta FC has to offer.

Glory 78: Rico Verhoeven vs. Alistair Overeem – A Kickboxing Dream Match

While MMA has gained popularity in recent years, kickboxing remains a beloved combat sport with its own dedicated fan base. Glory 78 will feature a dream match between two kickboxing legends, Rico Verhoeven and Alistair Overeem.

Verhoeven is the reigning Glory heavyweight champion and has established himself as one of the best kickboxers in the world. Overeem, a former MMA fighter, has transitioned to kickboxing and brings his striking skills and experience to the ring.

This fight will be a clash of styles and techniques as Verhoeven’s technical striking meets Overeem’s power and aggression. Fans can expect a high-paced, action-packed fight that showcases the beauty and skill of kickboxing.

Rizin Fighting Federation 30: The Best of Japanese MMA

Rizin Fighting Federation has become synonymous with Japanese MMA, carrying on the tradition of Pride Fighting Championship. Rizin 30 will feature a series of exciting matchups that highlight the best talent from Japan and around the world.

The fights on the card will showcase a mix of striking, grappling, and overall athleticism. Rizin has a reputation for putting on entertaining events with unique matchups, and Rizin 30 will be no exception.

Keep an eye out for standout performances from Japanese fighters who could be the future stars of the sport. Rizin has a history of producing top-level talent, and Rizin 30 will be a showcase of the best that Japanese MMA has to offer.

The upcoming events in the world of MMA promise to deliver excitement, drama, and memorable moments. From the highly anticipated trilogy fight between McGregor and Poirier to the historic all-female event in ONE Championship, there is something for every fan to look forward to.

These events highlight the diversity and talent in MMA, showcasing fighters from various promotions and weight classes. Whether it’s the clash of legends in Combate Global or the rise of young talent in LFA, there is no shortage of compelling matchups.

As MMA continues to grow in popularity, fans can expect even more thrilling events and memorable moments in the future. The sport is constantly evolving, and these upcoming events are a testament to its global appeal. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the action as the best fighters in the world compete for glory in the cage.