5 Best UFC Fights of 2026 So Far (Number 3 Will Shock You)
About the Author :
Moufadi HeyNess is the founder of MMA Fight Nation and a combat sports writer covering MMA, UFC events, boxing, BJJ, and martial arts training.
If you're a fan of the UFC, 2026 has already delivered some unforgettable moments inside the Octagon. From championship wars to shocking upsets and back-and-forth battles, the Ultimate Fighting Championship continues to prove why it remains the biggest promotion in mixed martial arts.
Whether you're searching for highlights before watching UFC tonight or simply want to relive the year's best action, this list covers the five most exciting UFC fights of 2026 so far.
Let's count them down.
Why 2026 Has Been a Great Year for UFC Fans
The UFC entered 2026 with massive expectations. New champions emerged, legendary veterans continued their careers, and several title fights reshaped entire divisions.
What makes a fight truly memorable?
- High-level MMA skills
- Constant action
- Dramatic momentum swings
- Championship implications
- Emotional storytelling
The fights below combine all of those elements and have already become leading candidates for Fight of the Year discussions among fans and analysts.
5. Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes 2
UFC 325
The rematch between featherweight king Alexander Volkanovski and rising contender Diego Lopes was one of the most anticipated bouts of the year.
After their first encounter generated significant buzz, fans wanted to see whether Lopes could finally dethrone the champion.
What followed was a technical masterpiece.
Volkanovski showcased his legendary fight IQ, mixing sharp boxing combinations with elite movement, while Lopes pushed the pace and forced several intense exchanges. The championship atmosphere made every round feel important.
The fight reminded fans why Volkanovski remains one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history and why Lopes is considered one of the division's most dangerous challengers.
Why It Made This List
- Championship stakes
- Elite striking exchanges
- Tactical adjustments throughout the fight
- Huge impact on the featherweight division
4. Arnold Allen vs. Jean Silva
A Hidden Gem That Hardcore Fans Loved
Not every great UFC fight happens in a main event.
This clash between Arnold Allen and Jean Silva flew under the radar before delivering one of the most competitive contests of the year.
Both fighters came forward aggressively from the opening bell.
The striking exchanges were razor-close, neither man willing to take a backward step. Fans on MMA forums and rankings consistently mention this fight among the year's best action-packed battles.
Why It Made This List
- Non-stop action
- Excellent striking
- Momentum swings
- Unexpected Fight of the Night contender
For casual viewers looking beyond title fights, this bout is essential viewing.
3. Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland
The Fight Nobody Expected
This is the fight that shocked the MMA community.
When Khamzat Chimaev stepped into the cage, many expected another dominant performance from the undefeated star.
Instead, fans witnessed one of the biggest surprises of the year.
The fight featured dramatic moments, elite grappling, relentless pressure, and several momentum shifts that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The result sparked endless debate across the MMA world, with many fans describing it as one of the most shocking outcomes of 2026.
What made this contest special wasn't just the result—it was the storyline.
Both fighters entered with enormous expectations, and the clash delivered far more drama than anyone anticipated.
Why It Made This List
- Massive stakes
- Unexpected outcome
- Elite-level competition
- Huge impact on the middleweight division
This is the fight that earns the "Number 3 Will Shock You" title.
2. Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett
Pure Violence from Start to Finish
Few fighters create excitement like Justin Gaethje.
When Gaethje faced Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, fans knew chaos was almost guaranteed.
The fight exceeded expectations.
Gaethje's trademark pressure, devastating leg kicks, and relentless pace created one of the most entertaining contests of the year. Pimblett showed incredible toughness and heart, refusing to quit despite absorbing tremendous punishment.
The fight carried major lightweight implications because the winner positioned himself for a shot at lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.
Across MMA communities, many fans consider this one of the strongest Fight of the Year candidates.
Why It Made This List
- Relentless action
- High stakes
- Incredible toughness
- Fight of the Year contender
1. Josh Hokit vs. Curtis Blaydes
The Best UFC Fight of 2026 So Far
At number one, we have the heavyweight war between Josh Hokit and Curtis Blaydes.
This fight had everything.
Heavyweight power.
Constant momentum changes.
Elite wrestling exchanges.
Heart-stopping moments where it looked like either fighter could finish the bout.
Fans and rankings across the MMA community consistently place this contest at or near the top of 2026 Fight of the Year discussions.
Unlike many heavyweight fights that end quickly, this battle delivered sustained action and drama from beginning to end.
Every round raised the intensity.
By the final bell, fans knew they had witnessed something special.
Why It Made This List
- Incredible pace for heavyweights
- Constant suspense
- Elite grappling and striking
- Strong Fight of the Year candidate
For many observers, this remains the gold standard for UFC action in 2026.
Honorable Mentions
Several fights narrowly missed the top five:
- Mason Jones vs. Axel Sola
- Joshua Van vs. Tatsuro Taira
- Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler
- Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira
These bouts showcased the incredible depth of talent currently competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Final Thoughts
The UFC has already delivered a fantastic first half of 2026.
From technical masterclasses to brutal wars and shocking upsets, fans have been treated to some incredible moments. Whether you're checking results before UFC tonight or looking back at the year's best performances, these five fights stand above the rest.
Top 5 UFC Fights of 2026 So Far
- Josh Hokit vs. Curtis Blaydes
- Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett
- Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland
- Arnold Allen vs. Jean Silva
- Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes 2
With major events still ahead—including champion Ilia Topuria defending his title against Justin Gaethje—the second half of the year could be even more exciting.
Which UFC fight has been your favorite in 2026 so far? Let us know in the comments!