In the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts, anticipation fuels fandom and drives pay-per-view sales. As 2023 advances, fans and analysts alike are eager to see marquee matchups that transcend mere competition, transforming MMA into a cultural spectacle. The UFC, as the premier promotion, holds the power to craft a lineup that not only entertains but also cements its legacy. From title fights to compelling grudge matches, the potential is sprawling—and the time to act is now. Strategic matchups can elevate fighters, ignite rivalries, and shape the sport’s narrative for years to come.
The matches already announced, such as Du Plessis vs. Chimaev and Aspinall vs. Gane, set the stage for blockbuster events. But what separates good fights from historic ones are the stories they tell, the stakes they carry, and the star power they muster. The UFC should seize these opportunities and fill the end-of-year calendar with battles that resonate deeply with fans, critics, and casual viewers alike.
Spotlighting Emerging Contenders: The Heartbeat of Future Legends
One crucial element in crafting unforgettable fight cards is spotlighting fighters on the rise—athletes whose narrative arcs promise explosive rivalries and unforgettable moments. Della Maddalena’s potential showdown with Makhachev, for example, epitomizes this strategy. While the matchup would be a stylistic clash—Della Maddalena’s physicality against Makhachev’s wrestling savvy—it embodies a narrative of a rising star challenging established dominance.
Promoting this fight at Madison Square Garden would instantly elevate Della Maddalena’s profile, turning a potential underdog into the centerpiece of a pay-per-view event. This is a fight that could showcase the true depth of MMA talent, blending raw power with technical finesse. Moreover, the notion of Makhachev moving up in weight to face a well-rounded, aggressive fighter signals not just a new chapter for him but also exemplifies the sport’s ongoing evolution—where champions are no longer confined to a single weight class.
By elevating under-the-radar fighters and giving them the platform they deserve, the UFC can create narratives that transcend rankings, fueling fan interest and creating memorable moments. After all, stories are what keep combat sports emotionally engaging, and the promotion of future legends should be a central focus.
The Reignited Rivalry: A Classic Rematch Reimagined
Among the most compelling potential fights is the anticipated showdown between Israel Adesanya and the rising star Khamzat Chimaev. Though Adesanya is currently on a rough patch, his legendary status and striking finesse still make him a tantalizing opponent. The fight’s significance isn’t just about rankings; it’s about rewriting narratives.
A hypothetical scenario where Chimaev, after claiming the belt, faces Adesanya on short notice would turn the MMA world upside down. Such an impromptu title fight would tap into the sport’s unpredictability and showcase Chimaev’s grit. For Adesanya, a late-career resurgence against an undefeated champion would be a fitting redemption arc—if the UFC dares to gamble on it.
Even if Chimaev loses, the rematch remains a blockbuster. The matchup promises stylistic fireworks—wrestling versus striking, youth versus experience. The UFC’s challenge lies in timing—capturing this moment before it slips away and ensuring the fight garners the maximum audience. By bending the conventional rules and prioritizing storytelling over rigid rankings, the promotion can create a spectacle that defines the sport’s narrative for the coming years.
Women’s MMA’s Pinnacle: A Match for the History Books
The upcoming bout between Amanda Nunes and Julianna Peña or Amanda Nunes and another top contender could redefine women’s MMA. However, a more tantalizing possibility is a showdown with Ronda Rousey’s protégé, Holly Holm, or even a long-delayed matchup against a fighter like Valentina Shevchenko.
The fight that would truly shake the ground is an underdog story—the kind that redefines legacies. If Nunes beats the odds as an underdog, it would send shockwaves through the sport, cementing her status as one of MMA’s all-time greats. Conversely, if she faces a new, formidable challenger and loses, it opens a new chapter in women’s combat sports. Either scenario offers storytelling gold that the UFC should capitalize on before the year ends.
The anticipation surrounding this division’s future still lingers. A storyline-driven superfight, whether with Peña, Shevchenko, or another rising star, would serve as both a culmination of women’s MMA progress and a platform for new legends to emerge.
The Unpredictable Battle: Old Rivalries and Future Feuds Collide
Matchups fueled by history generate unmatched excitement. Sean O’Malley and Cody Garbrandt represent just that—a rivalry laden with tension and potential. While Garbrandt has struggled recently, their past altercation and shared history suggest that fans still crave their showdown.
A fight between these two would transcend rankings and competition—it’s about catharsis, revenge, and defining legacies. The UFC has an opportunity to capitalize on this storyline, especially considering Garbrandt’s recent slide. Booking such a bout, even if it doesn’t make literal sense on paper, would electrify audiences, especially with promotional footage of their earlier encounter.
Furthermore, pairing emerging prospects like Pico against established contenders such as Rodriguez could reshape divisions. Pico’s raw talent and aggressive style could invigorate featherweight contention, especially if matched against a seasoned veteran. This strategic matchmaking not only diversifies the schedule but also keeps fan engagement high.
In essence, the UFC’s best move is to foster narratives that are as compelling as the fights themselves. It’s about creating moments that make history, not just filling a calendar. The potential is there; the question remains whether the promotion will seize it with both fists.