2022 was an incredible year for UFC, but 2023 is shaping up to be even better. With a ton of dream matchups to come, former champions returning, old guard clashing with young blood, and some divisions looking for stable champions, fans are in for a packed year. Here are our picks for the 3 most awaited fights we expect from UFC in 2023.
Jon Jones vs Francis Ngannou (Heavyweight Bout)
The uncrowned champ of the heavyweight division, Francis Ngannou, finally managed to win the title by defeating Stipe Miocic on UFC 260. His later defense against Cyril Gane in UFC 270 showed the world that he was ready for stronger opponents. Former Light-heavyweight champion Jon Jones was also looking to make a comeback but this time in the heavyweight division.
Jones didn’t leave the UFC on favorable terms. He was riddled with scandals following his proven record of drug abuse and violent behavior outside the octagon. His ‘undefeated’ status was also questioned by many as Reyes was picked to be the victor out of Jon’s last fight.
Now Jones has one last opportunity to clear some filth of his name and a power-punching machine like Ngannou seems to be the ideal candidate.
Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler (Lightweight Bout)
What do Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler have in common? Both of them lost their last fights against Dustin ‘The Diamond’ Poirier. Also, both these fighters have racked up significantly more losses than wins in their last few bouts for the UFC. Now a potential fight is in the making between these two lightweights.
Conor doesn’t have much to gain in this fight. If he does win against Chandler and immediately announces his retirement, he can go off with some dignity. Michael on the other hand will probably see the biggest payday of his life and a victory will take him right back inside the title picture yet again.
Khamzat Chimaev vs Colby Covington (Welterweight Bout)
Khamzat Chimaev seems to be in a ‘so close no matter how far’ state in the UFC. The promising prospect who wanted to take on anybody and everybody now fights once in a while and seems to be turning some fights down. Fans want to see the Chechen prodigy go up against no.2 ranked Colby Covington.
Colby has been out of the competitive picture ever since he got his teeth knocked out by former friend Jorge Masvidal. But as per his contracts, he can’t sit idle forever so eventually he has to come back. A bout against one of the biggest rising stars in his weight class can be his shortcut ticket to the title once again.
What are your dream fights from UFC in 2023?
