Some UFC fights don’t end when the final horn sounds. Instead, they echo in the minds of fans, fighters, and analysts for years—fights so close, so chaotic, or so controversial that one clash just wasn’t enough. They spark debates on forums, highlight reels on YouTube, and passionate discussions at every sports bar when fight night rolls around.
Sometimes it’s about a controversial decision that left fans divided. Other times, it’s about elite-level competition so tight that you can’t help but wonder what would’ve happened with five more seconds or one different judge. These fights create unfinished business, and in MMA, unfinished business always deserves another round.
Here are five unforgettable UFC fights that didn’t just entertain us—they demand a rematch.
5. Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz III
Events: UFC 196 (March 5, 2016) & UFC 202 (August 20, 2016)
This rivalry didn’t just shift careers—it shifted the culture of MMA. Nate Diaz shocked the world at UFC 196, submitting Conor McGregor in the second round on just 11 days’ notice. Conor came back with a vengeance at UFC 202, edging out a gritty majority decision win in one of the most-watched fights in UFC history.
Combined, these two bouts did over 3 million PPV buys. They gave fans drama, blood, trash talk, and heart—and now, at 1–1, the story begs for its final chapter.
It’s a fight that still grabs headlines and keeps online sports betting experts on their toes—knowing that if a trilogy does happen, the odds could swing wildly depending on timing, venue, and momentum.
Why it deserves a rematch: Because some rivalries are bigger than belts. Conor vs. Nate III would be the ultimate trilogy fight, whether in the UFC, on a new card, or in a stadium packed with fans who never stopped caring.
4. Kamaru Usman vs. Colby Covington I
Event: UFC 245 – December 14, 2019
Pure chaos. No takedowns, just stand-up warfare for nearly five rounds. Usman and Covington threw down in a fight that was as intense as their pre-fight trash talk. Both landed over 140 significant strikes. The action was so non-stop that it could’ve gone either way before Usman scored a late fifth-round TKO after breaking Colby’s jaw.
They met again at UFC 268 in 2021, with Usman winning a close unanimous decision. But even then, the tension remained. Neither fight provided the clean closure fans—or the fighters—were looking for.
Why it deserves a rematch: Because it’s one of the most evenly matched rivalries in welterweight history. A third and final bout would settle who truly stands as the better man.
3. Zhang Weili vs. Joanna Jędrzejczyk I
Event: UFC 248 – March 7, 2020
One of the greatest women’s MMA fights ever. Zhang Weili and Joanna Jędrzejczyk delivered five rounds of brutal brilliance, combining for over 350 significant strikes. Zhang’s power versus Joanna’s volume made every round a chess match soaked in blood and heart.
The judges awarded Zhang a split decision. But ask 10 fans who won, and you might get 10 different answers.
Why it deserves a rematch: They fought a second time at UFC 275, but it ended with a fast KO. Their first fight was too iconic not to warrant a proper five-round follow-up. A trilogy fight would do justice to their shared legacy.
2. Alexander Volkanovski vs. Islam Makhachev I
Event: UFC 284 – February 12, 2023
Pound-for-pound royalty met in Perth, and the result was a five-round chess match between champions. Volkanovski moved up in weight and gave Makhachev the toughest fight of his life. Islam won via unanimous decision, but the crowd—and many analysts—saw things differently.
Volk outlanded Islam in significant strikes (70 to 57) and ended the fight in dominant fashion. While Islam controlled key positions on the ground, Volk’s striking and damage stood out.
Why it deserves a rematch: They fought again later in 2023, but it was on short notice for Volkanovski, who was finished early. That second bout didn’t feel fair. A third fight—with full camps—would be a technical masterpiece and a true legacy fight.
1. Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes
Event: UFC 247 – February 8, 2020
Jon Jones has had many close fights—but none stirred the MMA world quite like this one. Dominick Reyes brought pressure, volume, and smart footwork that made Jones look human. Most media members and fans had Reyes winning the first three rounds.
Yet the scorecards read 48–47, 48–47, and 49–46… all for Jones. The decision was met with heavy backlash. Dana White even admitted Reyes may have deserved the nod. Jones soon vacated the title and moved to heavyweight, leaving behind a debate that never got settled.
Why it deserves a rematch: Because some controversies are too big to forget. Reyes was never the same afterwards, and Jones never ran it back. This is the rematch that got away—and still feels necessary for the light heavyweight legacy.
🧠 FAQs
Q: What makes a UFC fight worthy of a rematch?
A: Controversial endings, elite performances, unfinished business, or overwhelming fan demand often trigger rematches in the UFC.
Q: Which UFC fight had the most controversial decision?
A: Jon Jones vs. Dominick Reyes is widely considered one of the most debated outcomes in modern UFC history.
Q: Are these rematches scheduled?
A: As of 2025, none are officially on the books—but several are frequently teased in interviews and media appearances.
Q: Why is the McGregor vs. Diaz trilogy not happening yet?
A: Conor’s injuries and Diaz stepping away from the UFC put it on hold, but both sides have hinted they’re still interested.
Q: Do rematches usually live up to the hype?
A: It depends, but some of the UFC’s best fights—like Usman vs. Covington II or Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway II—came in rematches.
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