From Legends to New Blood: The UFC’s Biggest Stars in 2024
The era of megastars like Ronda Rousey and Brock Lesnar bringing in massive pay-per-view buys has shifted in the UFC. While Conor McGregor has helped fill the void, a new generation of fighters are emerging. Here’s a look at the top 10 attention-grabbing fighters in the UFC today, ranked by talkSPORT.com.
10. Paddy Pimblett: “The Baddy” with a Growing Fanbase
Despite only having five fights in the UFC, Pimblett, nicknamed “The Baddy,” is a fan favorite. His star power is likely to keep growing if he can break into the lightweight top 15 this year.
9. Sean Strickland: The Middleweight with a Flair for Controversy
Strickland’s short but eventful reign as middleweight champion solidified his status as one of MMA’s most controversial figures. He excels at generating buzz, even outside the octagon.
8. Khamzat Chimaev: The Scary Russian on the Rise
With his dominant early career performances, Chimaev has captivated fight fans with his aggressive style. The undefeated contender is on the cusp of a title shot, and a championship win could propel him even higher on this list.
7. Alex Pereira: “Poatan,” the Kickboxing Phenom with KO Power
UFC President Dana White clearly sees star potential in Pereira. The kickboxing standout headlined UFC 300 and delivered with a knockout victory. His willingness to fight anyone and his frightening power have made him a fan favorite.
6. Dustin Poirier: The Nearly Man Turned Superstar
Poirier spent years as a top contender who fell short of the championship. However, his two victories over Conor McGregor solidified him as a major UFC star. Fans appreciate his exciting fighting style, win or lose.
5. Sean O’Malley: The Colorful Bantamweight Champion
O’Malley is a captivating combination of knockout artist, flamboyant personality, and celebrity connections. Now that he holds the bantamweight title, his potential for stardom seems limitless.
4. Max Holloway: “Blessed” with Longevity and Excitement
A veteran of over a decade in the UFC, Holloway has never been involved in a dull fight. He earned a massive bonus and solidified his popularity with a spectacular knockout at UFC 300, dubbed the “greatest KO of all time.”
3. Israel Adesanya: “Stylebender” Looking to Rebound
Adesanya’s dominance in the middleweight division mirrored that of legend Anderson Silva. Despite recent setbacks, his star power remains significant as he gears up for his highly anticipated comeback fight.
2. Jon Jones: The Undisputed MMA GOAT
Considered the greatest fighter ever, Jones’ legendary UFC career includes victories over established stars, rivals, and rising talents. He holds championships in two weight classes, and his personal life attracts as much attention as his fighting career.
1. Conor McGregor: The Notorious Superstar
McGregor remains the UFC’s biggest star, and his legacy fight against Michael Chandler is highly anticipated. Despite a three-year absence from the octagon, he’s still a major draw, and his return promises to be a spectacle.
