5 best UFC fights of May 2022

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Charles Oliveira [Image via @charlesdobronxs on Instagram]

The UFC delivered three action-packed fight cards in May. Across one pay-per-view and the two subsequent Fight Nights, we saw some jaw-dropping finishes, in addition to a handful of back-and-forth barnburners.

The first event of the month was the UFC 274 pay-per-view, headlined by the highly anticipated Charles Oliveira vs. Justin Gaethje bout, which delivered on all fronts. In direct contrast to the Oliveira-Gaethje fight, Rose Namajunas and Carla Esparza put on arguably the worst title fight in promotional history in the co-main event.

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Thankfully, we didn't witness any other fights quite as bad as the Namajunas vs. Esparza rematch in May. Fans were treated to some memorable matchups over the course of the three fight cards of the month, with some even ending with a highlight reel finish.

Here are the five best fights of May 2022.

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#5. Chase Hooper vs. Felipe Colares – UFC Vegas 55

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For all the grappling enthusiants out there, this featherweight bout between Chase Hooper and Felipe Colares was an absolute treat to watch from start to finish.

Hooper, who joined the roster as a 20-year-old back in 2019, has struggled for consistency since signing with the world's premier MMA promotion. The submission specialist has looked out of his depth on occasion, with many criticizing his decision to join the big leagues at such a young age.

At UFC Vegas 55, he picked up his third win in the promotion, putting on a mature and encouraging display against Felipe Colares to return to the win column.

The bout was a back-and-forth affair, and largely took place on the mat. Hooper repeatedly closed the distance and wore his opponent down with his relentless wrestling pressure. Every time the opportunity presented itself, he attempted submissions, but Colares was wise to it.

Colares put on an admirable display of submission defense in the first two rounds, halting all of Hooper's attempts to snatch an arm, take his back or squeeze his neck.

However, his resilience was short-lived as 'The Dream' secured full back mount in the final round and rained down heavy ground-and-pound strikes, prompting the referee to call a halt to the action. This was Hooper's first 'Performance of the Night' bonus in the UFC.

Chase Hooper won a $50k bonus [Image via UFC on Instagram]

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