5 best middleweight title fights in UFC history
UFC title fights are always exciting to watch. The hard work and the pounding that the fighters endure all lead up to this special moment.
Like all other divisions in the promotion, the middleweight division has always produced an exciting group of fighters who have run through the division to get to the top. The likes of Anderson Silva, Michael Bisping, Israel Adesanya, and others have either achieved Hall of Fame status or are en route to achieving it.
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Israel Adesanya retains his UFC middleweight title by decision 🏆 #UFC263 https://t.co/MVwrrs4jOY
Of the numerous title fights that the 185 lbs division has had, a few live rent-free in the fan's memories. With that in mind, here are the five best middleweight title fights in UFC history.
#5. UFC 117: Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen
UFC 117 between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen was yet another example of why 'The Spider' reigned atop the UFC's pound-for-pound rankings at one point in his career. One of the greatest fights in the promotion's history was preceded by Sonnen badmouthing 'The Spider' and his homeland of Brazil during the pre-fight press conference. But considering the reputation the former NCAA Division I wrestler enjoyed, it came as no surprise.
What came as a surprise, however, was the way he dominated the Brazilian throughout the fight. As per official stats, the Oregon native outlanded Silva 89-29 in significant strikes on target.
Chael Sonnen, who had a UFC record of 6-4 going into the fight, started off the proceedings by rocking Anderson Silva with a strong left hand in the opening round.
The highlight of Sonnen's game, however, was his ground and pound skills. He was effective with his takedowns and rained heavy blows on Silva from the top position.
Silva, meanwhile, showed remarkable resilience as he soldiered on despite the pounding. Although he did do some damage when he cut Sonnen with a strong elbow, the American was the clear winner in the first four rounds.
Silva's resilience, however, bore fruit in the last round as he made a comeback to register his third win by submission. Remarkable would be an understatement as the Brazilian pulled off a triangle armbar that proved to be too much for Sonnen.
On this date in 2010, Anderson Silva pulled off one of MMA's greatest comebacks by submitting Chael Sonnen in the fifth round at UFC 117. https://t.co/NX1SmfZQD6