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5 of the best UFC fights this year, and 1 of the worst

Now that 2023 is closer to its end than its beginning, let's look at five of the best UFC fights so far this year and one of the worst.

By Leocciano Callao

UFC 284: Makhachev v Volkanovski
UFC 284: Makhachev v Volkanovski / Paul Kane/GettyImages
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4. Geoff Neal vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov, UFC 285

The welterweight division has seen a lot of movement recently. With Masvidal riding into the sunset, Kamaru Usman dethroned from champion status, and Leon Edwards sitting on top of the totem pole, there's plenty of shuffling happening in rankings.

Shavkat Rakhmonov's star was rising, but it shined the brightest at UFC 285. It was his test for contendership, and he passed with flying colors. Beating Geoff Neal is no easy task. He is a proven veteran and still competes at the highest level in the UFC. Handz of Steel lived up to his nickname, landing heavy hands on Rakhmonov throughout the fight. On the other hand, Rakhmonov was accurately landing shots of his own. He also utilized his length, successfully and consistently landing head kicks.

Had the fight gone 15 minutes, Rakhmonov would have won a close decision, but why gamble when you can get a guaranteed win? The fight ended in the third round with Rakhmonov locking in a standing rear naked choke.

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