It has been a crazy year for the UFC, to say the least. However, the MMA organization has bounced back strong after a tough 2020. They were one of the first sports organizations to welcome full crowds back to their events. Not to mention there have been some crazy moments in 2021 so far for the company. Although there are still plenty of major fights left to play out, here are some of the fighters who are currently in contention to pick up the title.
What to Do Between Fights
When it comes towards the end of the year, people begin to debate who the fighter of the year was. This is usually awarded to someone who had an impressive calendar year. Multiple wins and good performances will contribute to a fighter’s standings in this award. However, it is often tough to make, as every fighter has a unique year under the UFC banner. In addition, the year has been unpredictable, meaning you might be reluctant to put your money on some fighters. However, you can still get your gambling in anytime you like, thanks to Lucky Nugget pokies. This is a great way to gamble when you aren’t able to pick a winner.
Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier has been one of the biggest names in combat sports this year. He kicked off the PPV schedule for the UFC back in January. He blew fans away as he became the first man to TKO Conor McGregor inside the octagon. In their third encounter in the summer, Poirier dominated the Irishman before a doctor’s stoppage meant McGregor could no longer continue. He will fight for the Lightweight championship before the end of the year. If he can claim gold, he will, without a doubt, be the top candidate; going 3-0 and picking up a title is one impressive year in the UFC.
Kamaru Usman
Kamaru Usman has quickly become one of the greatest fighters the UFC has ever seen. The welterweight champion is one of the most dominant forces the division has had. He got his year off to a great start as he defended his title twice. First, he disposed of both Jorge Masvidal and Gilbert Burns via knockout. Then, he will look to defend his title for a third time against bitter rival Colby Covington before the year closes. If he can come out on top, there are few with a better record than him in 2021.
Ciryl Gane
When you talk about fighters rising up the rankings, none have done it quite like Ciryl Gane. Just over two years in the sport, 2021 saw Ciryl Gane claim the interim heavyweight title. He has wins over top contenders Alexander Volkov, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and Derrick Lewis. All of which he was extremely impressive in.
Cory Sandhagen
One of the most exciting fighters on the roster today is Cory Sandhagen. Since his loss to current champion Aljamain Sterling, he has been on a tear through the bantamweight division. This year, he finished legend Frankie Edgar with one of the most brutal knockouts you will ever see. He then went toe to toe with top contender TJ Dillashaw in a split decision loss. He will fight for the division’s interim title against former champion Petr Yan.