MMA has always been a sport that thrives on drama, intensity, and the thrill of the unknown. Each year, as athletes push their limits, the evolution of techniques and strategies becomes evident. In 2024, fighters demonstrated exceptional grappling skills, leading to memorable submissions that showcased their prowess and cemented their legacies. This article dives deep into the top five submissions of the year, providing insightful analysis and highlighting their significance in the MMA landscape.
Paddy Pimblett’s performance against King Green was not just about the victory; it was a masterclass in grappling technique and tactical adaptability. Starting the fight in an offensive stance, Green sought to impose his will early on but soon found himself at the mercy of Pimblett’s submission arsenal. The sequence that led to Pimblett’s victory, starting with a guillotine choke, followed by the swift transition to a triangle choke, exemplified the fluidity that elite fighters must possess.
What makes this submission even more noteworthy is how Pimblett capitalized on his opponent’s desperation. Green’s attempt to escape ultimately led him into a precarious position for an armbar, showcasing Pimblett’s relentless pursuit of finishing the fight. This not only emphasizes Pimblett’s submission skills but also his psychological edge in controlling the tempo and direction of the bout.
Brian Ortega: Resilience Personified
Brian Ortega’s journey back to the top of the featherweight division was both arduous and compelling. His fight against Yair Rodriguez was not just a test of skill; it was a battle of wills. After suffering an injury early in their first encounter, Ortega didn’t let a similar situation derail him again. Throughout the fight, he demonstrated remarkable tenacity, absorbing strikes while countering with precision.
The pivotal moment arrived in the third round when Ortega executed an arm-triangle choke that marked a significant turnaround in his career. This submission wasn’t just a technical victory; it was symbolic of overcoming adversity. Ortega’s ability to withstand damage and bring the fight back into his control reflects a profound mental strength that is often underestimated in MMA.
In the highly anticipated title fight at UFC 302, Islam Makhachev faced Dustin Poirier, each one vying for the lightweight championship. This matchup provided a thrilling display of tactical warfare, with Makhachev ultimately reigning supreme. The final submission, a D’Arce choke, was a culmination of strategic groundwork and positioning. Makhachev’s ability to exploit Poirier’s vulnerabilities after a sweep demonstrated not only his grappling acumen but also a keen understanding of fight dynamics.
This encounter raised questions about each fighter’s approach to high-pressure situations. Makhachev’s precision under pressure allowed him to secure the win, while Poirier’s struggle highlighted the marginal moments that can define championship aspirations. The submission was a testament to Makhachev’s readiness to seize opportunities and exemplified the nail-biting unpredictability of MMA.
Dricus Du Plessis: Breaking the Streak of Resilience
The middleweight title clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 is another highlight of the year. Their fight was marked by back-and-forth exchanges that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The culmination of this battle came in the fourth round when Du Plessis caught Adesanya in a rear-naked choke, marking the first time Adesanya had tapped in his illustrious career.
This victory underscored the evolution of Du Plessis as a top contender and led to a significant shift in the middleweight landscape. The submission not only broke Adesanya’s undefeated streak in submission defenses but also illustrated how Du Plessis had studied his opponent to identify weaknesses that could be exploited.
Khamzat Chimaev: The Quick Finish
Lastly, Khamzat Chimaev made headlines with his rapid submission of Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, proving that speed and aggression can be as effective as technical ability. The fight barely got underway before Chimaev executed a takedown, leading to a face crank that forced Whittaker to tap.
Chimaev’s approach illustrated the importance of high-pressure tactics in MMA. Securing a victory against a former champion not only signifies physical dominance but also establishes Chimaev as one of the most fearsome competitors in the sport today.
2024 showcased numerous memorable submissions that highlighted the artistry of grappling in MMA. Each athlete demonstrated unique tactical and psychological elements that contributed to their success. As the sport continues to evolve, the significance of these techniques will undoubtedly influence the next generation of fighters. As fans, we are left to wonder what thrilling submissions await us in the year to come.