3 Epic MMA Fights To Watch: A 5, 10, & 25-Minute Breakdown (MMATorch)

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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5-Minute MMA Masterclass: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor

The Pre-Fight Hype:

This fight, held in October 2018, was one of the most anticipated MMA events of all time. The build-up was electric, fueled by the contrasting personalities and styles of the two fighters. Both were at the peak of their powers, making this a clash of titans within the MMA world.

• Khabib Nurmagomedov: Undefeated at the time, known for his relentless grappling and suffocating pressure. Record: 26-0. Notable victories: Al Iaquinta, Rafael dos Anjos. Fighting style: Dominant wrestler with devastating ground and pound.
• Conor McGregor: Famous for his striking power and charismatic personality. Record: 21-4. Notable victories: Jose Aldo, Eddie Alvarez. Fighting style: Aggressive striker with powerful left hand.

The Crucial 5 Minutes:

The first five minutes showcased Khabib's dominance. He immediately took McGregor down, controlling the fight on the ground. This early takedown set the tone for the rest of the fight.

• Key Techniques: Multiple takedowns, ground control, significant ground and pound.
• Impact: McGregor's striking game was neutralized, and his attempts to escape Khabib's grappling were unsuccessful. The early control gave Khabib a significant advantage in terms of the fight's momentum and scorecards.

The Legacy:

This fight cemented Khabib's status as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. It also highlighted the effectiveness of his grappling style against even the most skilled strikers. The fight continues to be analyzed as a masterclass in MMA strategy.

10-Minute MMA Thriller: Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs. Weili Zhang

Setting the Stage:

This strawweight title fight, held in March 2020, was a brutal back-and-forth battle between two of the best female MMA fighters in the world. Both women were known for their aggressive striking styles, promising a stand-up war.

• Key Differences in Fighting Styles: Jedrzejczyk, a former champion, relied on precision and technical striking. Zhang was known for her power and aggressive combinations.
• The Stakes: The UFC Strawweight Championship was on the line, adding significant pressure to the fight.

The Decisive 10 Minutes:

The first ten minutes were a whirlwind of strikes, with both fighters landing significant blows. Zhang's power began to take its toll, but Jedrzejczyk's skill and resilience kept her in the fight.

• Noteworthy Sequences: Multiple knockdowns, brutal exchanges, and fierce determination from both fighters.
• Strategic Adjustments: Neither fighter significantly altered their approach in the opening ten minutes; it was a pure striking contest showcasing exceptional heart and skill.

A Turning Point in MMA:

This fight is remembered for its intensity and brutality, becoming an instant classic in the MMA community. It showcased the incredible skill level in women's MMA and propelled Zhang to superstardom. The fight's impact resonated throughout the MMA news cycle, solidifying Zhang's place amongst the elite.

25-Minute Epic: Georges St-Pierre vs. Matt Serra – A Fight for the Ages

The Build-Up:

This welterweight title fight, held in April 2008, was a rematch of a stunning upset. Serra had unexpectedly defeated St-Pierre in their first encounter, making this a highly anticipated redemption fight.

• Highlighting Personalities: St-Pierre was the dominant champion, known for his calm demeanor and precise technique. Serra was the underdog, a relentless fighter who had proved his heart and determination.
• Media Coverage: The anticipation for this rematch was immense, with significant media coverage building up to the event.

The 25-Minute Battle:

This fight displayed St-Pierre's complete dominance. He displayed superior skills in all aspects of the game, ultimately showcasing a masterful performance.

• Pacing and Strategy: St-Pierre controlled the distance, utilizing his wrestling and striking effectively, preventing Serra from landing significant strikes.
• Critical Moments: St-Pierre consistently controlled the fight, never allowing Serra to gain momentum or control.

An MMA Legend is Forged:

This fight solidified St-Pierre's legacy as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. His victory was a testament to his dedication, skill, and mental fortitude. It displayed the power of preparation and strategic execution, leaving an enduring impact on the MMA world.

Your Ultimate Guide to Epic MMA Fights

This article highlighted three epic MMA fights, showcasing diverse fighting styles, strategies, and the lasting impact of these incredible battles. From Khabib's grappling mastery, to Zhang's ferocious striking, and St-Pierre's complete dominance, each fight offers a unique insight into the world of mixed martial arts. We hope this deep dive into these epic MMA fights has fueled your passion for this thrilling sport. Now it’s your turn! Watch these epic MMA fights, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Discover more epic MMA fights, experience the thrill of MMA firsthand, and explore the world of MMA with us!