December 31, 2024 7:00 pm ET
Two male fighters stood out above the remainder in 2024, however the ultimate alternative for MMA Junkie’s Male Fighter of the Yr was Ilia Topuria.
The UFC featherweight champion had a 12 months for the ages. Topuria started his 12 months by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski in February at UFC 298 to assert the title. Then, in October at UFC 308, he knocked out Max Holloway to document his first title protection.
Ending two GOATs in a calendar 12 months is a tricky feat to beat.
Nevertheless, the 12 months of the UFC mild heavyweight champ Alex Pereira was simply as spectacular.
“Poatan” recorded three title defenses in 2024. He stopped each opponent, ending a pair of former champs in Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka, and took out a hungry contender in Khalil Rountree Jr.
Which fighter deserved the award extra?
MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, Matthew Wells, Dan Tom, and host Danny Segura talk about their picks for Male Fighter of the Yr.
Watch their dialogue within the video above, and don’t miss this week’s full episode of “Spinning Again Clique” under on YouTube.
“Spinning Again Clique” is launched every Monday LIVE on MMA Junkie’s YouTube channel at midday ET. You may also discover every episode in your favourite podcast platforms – together with Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and extra – on Tuesday mornings.
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