As we close the chapter on an electrifying year for mixed martial arts (MMA), it is time to reflect on the standout moments that captivated fans, showcased incredible skill, and turned the tide in high-stakes battles. The art of submission in MMA not only emphasizes grappling prowess but also the ability to seize victory from the jaws of defeat. In this article, we’ll analyze the top five submissions of 2024, with a special highlight on the deserved recipient of the Submission of the Year award.
Among the notable submissions of the year, Paddy Pimblett’s encounter with King Green stands out vividly. In what was touted as his toughest challenge yet, Pimblett displayed technical brilliance and poise under pressure. While Green aimed to establish his striking, the encounter quickly shifted when he attempted a takedown. In a flash, Pimblett wrapped his arms around Green’s neck, initiating a guillotine choke. When Green extricated his head, Pimblett strategically transitioned into a triangle choke, demonstrating remarkable adaptability. As Green tried to escape, the dynamic forward thrust continued until the fight culminated in an armbar, rendering Green unconscious and closing the fight with a masterful performance. Pimblett’s relentless pursuit and quick transitions not only earned him this fight but placed him firmly in discussions for the year’s most impressive submissions.
Brian Ortega’s Resilient Victory Over Yair Rodriguez
Brian Ortega faced Yair Rodriguez in a highly anticipated rematch, and the bout was anything but straightforward. In their previous encounter, Ortega’s hopes were dashed by an injury, but this time, he was determined to rewrite his narrative. The fight unfolded like a dramatic tale, with Ortega suffering an ankle injury early on. However, he displayed unwavering spirit, absorbing relentless blows while strategically awaiting his moment. The fight reached its peak intensity in the third round when Ortega executed a perfectly timed arm-triangle choke. This moment was not just about the technique; it illustrated Ortega’s grit and tenacity, turning adversity into triumph in front of a passionate crowd.
Islam Makhachev’s Tactical Brilliance Against Dustin Poirier
Islam Makhachev’s championship bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 demonstrated high-level martial arts strategy, ultimately leading to Makhachev’s victory via submission. In a grueling 25-minute fight, Makhachev and Poirier exchanged blows, showcasing their striking abilities. As the clock ticked down, it was Makhachev’s patience and tactical approach that paved the way for his submission via D’Arce choke in the fifth round. The moment Makhachev executed a decisive sweep and locked in the choke was both a testament to his technique and an indication of Poirier’s exhaustion as he struggled against an opponent in peak form. This match not only solidified Makhachev’s status as a champion but also reaffirmed the critical role of strategic grappling in high-level competition.
In another thrilling contest, Dricus Du Plessis confronted former champion Israel Adesanya at UFC 305. The bout was characterized by its back-and-forth nature, with each fighter showcasing flashes of their striking and grappling acumen. The four-round contest culminated in a historic moment for Du Plessis as he executed a rear-naked choke, forcing Adesanya to submit—an unprecedented occurrence in the latter’s illustrious career. This submission not only marked a career-defining win for Du Plessis but also signaled a shift in the middleweight division, showcasing the evolving landscape of contenders and champions alike.
Khamzat Chimaev returned to the octagon in a spectacular fashion, facing off against former champion Robert Whittaker. From the first second of the fight, Chimaev asserted himself decisively, executing a take-down that set the tone for the rest of the match. His grappling technique was on full display, seamlessly transitioning to a face crank submission less than four minutes into the first round. Whittaker’s attempts to escape were met with Chimaev’s relentless pressure, and ultimately, the pre-existing injury to Whittaker’s jaw became the battleground for Chimaev’s expertise. This display of skill not only showcased Chimaev’s grappling prowess but firmly reinstated him as one of the top competitors in the division.
2024 has been a testament to the ever-evolving world of MMA, with incredible submissions that highlighted not only raw talent but also the strategic mind of the fighters. While each submission carries its own narrative and significance, these top five submissions delivered unforgettable moments that will resonate with fans, fighters, and analysts alike for years to come. As we gear up for the next chapter, one thing is certain: the artistry of submission remains a captivating element of MMA that continues to evolve.