5 massive UFC fights that didn't need a title
Sometimes there are fights in the UFC that completely transcend the need for titles. What makes these fights special are the fights themselves. As soon as these matchups get announced, fans will have to take a moment to collect themselves. Some of these bouts could be a long-brewing rivalry finally coming to a head, a highly anticipated rematch, or the type of fight that has Hall of Fame written on it as soon as it gets announced.
Every title fight in the UFC is massive, but some don't need a title to make it big. So let's take a closer look at five massive UFC fights that didn't need a title.
#5. Justin Gaethje vs. Michael Chandler at UFC 268
The matchup between Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler was voted the 'Fight of the Year' for 2021. Both fighters were also coming off losses to the lightweight champions -- Gaethje losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov, while Chandler lost to Charles Oliveira. Gaethje and Chandler were looking to climb the ladder for another chance at the title. As soon as the bell rang, both of them came swinging towards each other with reckless abandonment.
youtu.be/CboQMFdemUkWow! Justin Gaethje vs Michael Chandler via the ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐ ๐ ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป camera! ๐ฅ
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Chandler who was the former Bellator lightweight champion had Gaethje wobbled at the start of the match, but 'The Highlight' fought back and dropped Chandler later on. Both sustained severe damage during the 15 minutes they were given to fight. The former interim lightweight champion Gaethje eventually won via UD.
During the post-fight interview, Gaethje said:
"I knew exactly what that motherf**ker was. He is a warrior. Weโre living in the wrong times, let me tell you. Me and him shouldโve been fighting to death in a colosseum. Thatโs what shouldโve happened."