Sherdog’s Top 10: Greatest UFC Fights

9. (Tie) Amanda Nunes vs. Cristiane Justino | UFC 232

The first two entries are curious ones. Each only appeared on a single voter's list, yet both were in first place. Nunes-“Cyborg” wasn't on my own list, though I can appreciate the logic behind it. The fight was arguably the biggest and most important in WMMA history. “Cyborg” was the UFC women's featherweight champion and then widely considered the greatest female fighter ever, a moniker that the promotion itself bestowed upon her. Nunes was the UFC women's bantamweight champion and still actively building her legend. The fight not only made Nunes the UFC’s first and so far only women's two-division champ, but led to her being considered the new greatest WMMA fighter ever. Additionally, it led to “Cyborg” eventually leaving the UFC for Bellator. As for the fight itself, it was certainly thrilling for the 51 seconds it lasted! “Cyborg” had certain defensive deficiencies, especially when coming forward with her Chute Boxe-inspired style, but before Nunes, no opponent had had the skills to take advantage. Instead, they were bludgeoned by “Cyborg.” Nunes, however, was confident in her ability to counter and did so in spectacular fashion, nailing “Cyborg” with quick, accurate, textbook, and powerful punches. “Cyborg” was too surprised and proud to clinch and paid for it, with Nunes finishing her off in just under a minute. More than any other fight, it has defined Nunes' legacy and is a spectacular demonstration of her striking at its pinnacle. A classic knockout that is worth remembering.

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