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UFC 2023: Records, Rivalries & Rising Concerns - A Year in Review

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, December 27th 2025 at 21:42 GMT by rnz

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UFC’s Rollercoaster Ride: A Year of Records, Rivalries, and Rising Concerns (2023 Recap)

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the dominant force in mixed martial arts, just wrapped up a tumultuous and thrilling 2023. As detailed by RNZ's recent year-in-review article, it was a year marked by record-breaking paydays, captivating championship fights, undeniable star power, but also shadowed by concerns surrounding fighter compensation, judging controversies, and the evolving landscape of combat sports. The piece paints a picture of an organization at both its peak and facing significant challenges.

The Good: Dominance, Records & New Stars Emerge

Undeniably, 2023 was a year of phenomenal highs for the UFC. Sean O’Malley's stunning knockout victory over Aljamain Sterling to claim the Bantamweight title was arguably the defining moment. The win solidified O'Malley’s status as a legitimate star and brought an undeniable charisma back to the division, drawing in new fans and boosting pay-per-view numbers. His unique style and engaging personality have proven exceptionally marketable, something UFC President Dana White clearly recognizes.

The article highlights Jon Jones’ continued dominance in the Heavyweight division. While his return was initially rocky (a controversial victory over Ciryl Gane), he cemented his legacy with a masterful performance against Stipe Miocic, further solidifying his claim as arguably the greatest MMA fighter of all time. This win also underscored the enduring appeal of Jones's fighting style and the drama that surrounds him.

Beyond the established champions, 2023 saw several rising stars begin to make their mark. Bo Nickal’s rapid ascent through the ranks is a prime example. The former NCAA wrestling champion displayed incredible athleticism and finishing ability in his UFC debut fights, generating significant buzz and excitement about his potential (as detailed on ESPN). His quick rise exemplifies the UFC's ongoing search for fresh talent to captivate audiences. Similarly, rising featherweight contender Ilia Topuria is steadily establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing impressive power and technical skill.

The financial success of several events was also a significant positive. The Justin Gaethje vs. Dustin Poirier fight, featuring the ‘BMF’ title on the line, generated massive revenue and demonstrated the enduring popularity of these established stars. While the article notes that not every event reached those heights, the overall financial performance remained strong, showcasing the UFC's global reach and loyal fanbase.

The Bad: Controversies & Judging Woes

However, 2023 wasn’t without its blemishes. The article points to a recurring theme – judging controversies. Several fights were marred by scores that left fans and fighters alike questioning the competence and consistency of the judges. The Nickal vs. Phil Hawes fight, for example, saw a highly debated scorecard initially awarded to Hawes before being overturned. These incidents erode fan trust and cast a shadow over otherwise exciting contests. The article mentions concerns about the lack of standardized judging criteria across different regions and the potential need for more rigorous training and oversight.

The ongoing debate surrounding fighter pay remains a significant issue. While superstars like O'Malley and Jones command multi-million dollar purses, many fighters struggle to make a living in the sport. The UFC’s revenue sharing model has been criticized as exploitative, with fighters arguing they don’t receive a fair share of the profits. The article alludes to the growing pressure from fighter unions and advocacy groups pushing for improved compensation and benefits. This is a complex issue, intertwined with the UFC's business model and the inherent risks associated with combat sports.

The Ugly: Dana White's Comments & Evolving Competition

Perhaps the most controversial aspect of 2023 highlighted in the article revolves around comments made by UFC President Dana White regarding Israel Adesanya’s departure from the middleweight title. White’s dismissive and arguably disrespectful remarks about Adesanya’s decision to pursue other opportunities sparked widespread backlash, demonstrating a disconnect between the organization's leadership and the evolving desires of its athletes. This incident amplified existing tensions surrounding athlete agency and control within the UFC.

Furthermore, the article touches upon the increasingly competitive landscape of combat sports. Organizations like PFL (Professional Fighters League) are gaining traction by offering fighters more lucrative contracts and a different tournament-style format. The emergence of BKFC (Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship) also provides an alternative for fighters seeking higher paydays and less restrictive rulesets. This competition puts pressure on the UFC to adapt and innovate, potentially impacting fighter compensation and the overall structure of the sport. The PFL’s success in attracting high-profile talent demonstrates a growing dissatisfaction with the UFC's dominance and its perceived limitations on fighter freedom.

Looking Ahead:

The RNZ article concludes that 2024 promises to be another pivotal year for the UFC. With new champions crowned, rivalries simmering, and the pressure of competition mounting, the organization faces both opportunities and challenges. Addressing concerns about judging consistency, improving fighter compensation, and fostering a more respectful relationship with its athletes will be crucial for maintaining the UFC’s position as the undisputed king of combat sports. The future hinges on whether Dana White and the UFC leadership can navigate these complexities while continuing to deliver thrilling entertainment to a global audience.

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