Michael Bisping, the former UFC middleweight champion, has been an ardent commentator on the sport. With a unique perspective from both inside the octagon and behind the microphone, Bisping’s insights are revered by fans and analysts alike. In 2024, there were several exhilarating bouts that caught his attention and left a lasting impression. Through his YouTube channel, Bisping shared his top five fights of the year, showcasing moments of sheer athleticism, strategy, and heart that made the year memorable for MMA fans.
One of the standout battles of the year featured Dricus Du Plessis going head-to-head against Israel Adesanya, the widely celebrated middleweight champion. This bout was significant not only because of the fighters involved but also due to its historical context. Bisping remarked that Du Plessis managed to disturb Adesanya’s rhythm in a way that no one else had before. The South African fighter exhibited an aggressive style that forced Adesanya into an uncharacteristic position, shaking up his usually fluid performance.
What makes this fight particularly compelling is that Du Plessis did not just aim to be a challenger; he capitalized on Adesanya’s mistakes while maintaining an offensive strategy that kept pressure on the champion. For any aspiring fighter, Du Plessis’ ability to stay composed and adapt his game plan on the fly serves as a powerful lesson in mental toughness and adaptability in a high-stakes environment. According to Bisping, this fight is a defining moment in Du Plessis’ career and sets the stage for future title opportunities.
Next on Bisping’s list was the highly charged fight between Billy Quarantillo and his opponent. Early in the matchup, Quarantillo appeared unstoppable, reminiscent of a young Cub Swanson with his dynamic striking and movement. However, what unfolded in the second round transformed the match into a classic display of skill and determination. Quarantillo’s opponent found his rhythm, leading to an exhilarating exchange that had the Tampa crowd on its feet.
This fight exemplified the essence of mixed martial arts: not merely dictating pace but engaging in a tactical back-and-forth with alternating momentum shifts. The ability of each fighter to absorb damage while continuously searching for openings demonstrated the heart of a true warrior. According to Bisping, the tremendous resolve shown by Quarantillo, especially after a rough patch, is the hallmark of elite-level fighting.
Bisping’s evaluation of the dramatic showdown between Dustin Poirier and Benoit Saint Denis highlighted the blend of skill, heart, and calculated risk that defines high-stakes MMA. The match, characterized by significant back-and-forth exchanges, saw Poirier weather both intense pressure and body shots that would have finished lesser opponents. What was particularly remarkable was his ability to regroup after being dominated in parts of the fight, showcasing extraordinary mental fortitude.
Poirier’s clinch work and grappling attempts, particularly the guillotine choke, contributed to an electrifying atmosphere that captured the audience’s attention from bell to bell. Ultimately, his precise striking led to a knockout finish, cementing the bout as not just another victory but a testament to his resilience and skill. Bisping argued that the fight demonstrated why Poirier is an elite competitor in the sport, suggesting that such performances should one day find a place in the Hall of Fame.
The striking talent on display in Max Holloway’s bout against Justin Gaethje was nothing short of spectacular. Bisping described the fight as displaying the art of striking in its finest form, with both fighters exchanging punishing blows and demonstrating their unique fighting styles. Holloway’s fluidity and Gaethje’s power created a dynamic that showcased why both are considered among the top in their division.
The remarkable aspect of this encounter was the determination each fighter exhibited, portraying the unyielding spirit that permeates throughout MMA culture. Bisping highlighted how close the fight remained, emphasizing that bouts like these keep fans engaged and show why MMA is captivating: the blend of technique, strategy, and unwavering resolve.
As 2024 comes to a close, the fights Bisping selected remind fans of the unpredictable nature of MMA and the breathtaking talent within the sport. Each matchup told a story of perseverance, skill, and growth, solidifying the fighters’ legacies in the process. For Bisping, being able to share these moments, whether from the commentator’s booth or as an analyst, cements his ongoing love for the sport. Undoubtedly, these five battles will be discussed for years to come as highlights not only of 2024 but of MMA history itself.