5 incredible UFC fights that went exactly as advertised

Justin Gaethje at Madison Square Garden [Image via @espnmma on Instagram]

With the UFC spearheading the growth of MMA, the sport has emerged as arguably the biggest in the realm of combat-based competition. The key difference between the popularity of MMA and boxing in the modern era is the competitiveness in the fights.

Every so often, a matchup comes along that all but guarantees fireworks. Styles make fights and true MMA aficionados can sometimes spot a barnburner long before it happens. While some don't live up to expectations, others deliver on all fronts. This weekend's bantamweight clash between Rob Font and Marlon Vera is one such matchup that promises to produce the goods.

UFC Vegas 53 poster [Image via @BigMarcel24 on Twitter]

Font and Vera are top-ranked contenders in the 135-pound division. Both fighters are known for their pin-point striking, solid grappling and, most importantly, their irrefutable durability. It has all the makings of an action-packed bout and we'll keep our fingers crossed that it lives up to expectations.

On that note, here are five incredible UFC fights that went exactly as advertised.

#5. Carlos Condit vs. Robbie Lawler – UFC 195

In 2016, Robbie Lawler was the reigning titleholder in the welterweight division. He won the belt two years earlier with a split decision win over Johny Hendricks and subsequently defended it against Rory MacDonald.

In his second title defense, 'Ruthless' took on perennial 170-pound contender Carlos Condit. The duo squared off in the main event of UFC 195.

UFC 195 poster [Image via @ufc on Twitter]

Lawler, a Strikeforce veteran, largely relied on his devastating power, while Condit was known for his unorthodox movement and long-range striking. Both fighters prefer stand-up affairs, making this intriguing clash of styles a fascinating matchup. Additionally, they were both at the peak of their powers and had rock-hard chins.

Condit won the first round, recording a knockdown against the champion. Lawler bounced back in the second, returning the favor with a vicious hook while the duo were in close-range. The next two rounds saw the challenger land more meaningful shots than his counterpart, setting up an all-important final frame.

In the last round, both welterweights gave it their all as they went back-and-forth all the way to the final bell. Lawler's forward pressure prompted Condit to bring out his diverse arsenal of counterstrikes, and the resulting exchanges were a sight to behold. The final round is inarguably one of the best in UFC history.

#OnThisDay in 2016 - Lawler and Condit gave us a FOTY to remember 😳

[ Watch more on @UFCFightPass ] https://t.co/RviRhXNAh4

Somewhat controversially, Lawler was handed a split decision victory. Many fans and analysts questioned the decision, as it felt as though Condit clearly won the first, third and fourth rounds. Even UFC president Dana White slammed the judges at the post-fight press conference, before commending both fighters for their incredible performances.

Jan2.2016

5 years ago today,

Robbie Lawler & Carlos Condit competed in one of the greatest fights in UFC history. https://t.co/R6ZLgLH2hc