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2021 saw a number of up-and-coming stars finally make it to the world's biggest MMA promotion. A number of these debutants were able to leave a huge impression on UFC fans everywhere.
For some, this was through just one outstanding performance that got fans discussing a new prospect to watch. There have been many examples of such occurring over the sport's history, from Anderson Silva's knee to knockout Chris Leben, to Ronda Rousey's title-retaining armbar over Liz Carmouche at UFC 157.
For other fighters, putting together an impressive first year in the company with a number of strong showings is what puts them on the map. Israel Adesanya's 2018 is an example of that, as he stringed together four consecutive victories in a year. Defeating names such as Marvin Vettori and Derek Brunson in the process.
This year has once again seen a number of UFC debutants find a way to make an impression on fans, the media and, most importantly, the UFC higher-ups. Here are the five best UFC debutants from 2021:
#5. Ian Garry
Ian Garry is nicknamed 'The Future' for a reason. The young Irish star won his first world title in Cage Warriors last year and went on to produce a winning effort in his UFC debut in November, all before his 24th birthday.
Garry's UFC debut was somewhat of a mixed bag. The first round was not going well, as he was being tagged by Jordan Williams repeatedly. However, with time expiring, 'The Future' delivered a gorgeous counter-right to his opponent, securing himself an impressive knockout victory.
Garry's performance at UFC 268 showed that there is room for improvement. However, he also displayed a ton of raw talent and star quality that could see him become a top star in the UFC should he continue to develop at his current rate.
#4. Casey O'Neill
While Casey O'Neill may have managed to stay under the radar in her debut year in the UFC, she has already put together an impressive resume. 'King Casey' racked up three victories and is already ranked No.15 in the flyweight division.
O'Neill began her UFC career with a TKO win over Shana Dobson in February, before flexing her versatility with a submission win over Lara Procópio in June.
Her most impressive result came in October when she secured a TKO win over Antonina Shevchenko, sister of current UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko.
O'Neill's next bout will come on February 12th when she faces the popular Roxanne Modafferi in what will be a retirement fight for 'The Happy Warrior'. Should O'Neill pick up another win there, look for more fans to start talking about this rising star.
#3. Alex Pereira
Alex Pereira's debut at UFC 268 was one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory. Pereira has already built a name for himself in the kickboxing world and holds two victories in the sport over current UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.
'Po Atan' entered the UFC off the back of just four professional MMA bouts. However, his inexperience wasn't noticeable as he scored a flying knee knockout victory over Andreas Michailidis at UFC 268.
The history between the Brazilian and Adesanya could benefit Pereira in a massive way. 'Po Atan' likely will not have to string together too many wins inside the octagon before fans and media will begin calling for a rematch between the two kickboxing standouts.
#2. Paddy Pimblett
In September this year, the entire UFC world went mad for Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett. Another Cage Warriors standout, Pimblett looked more than ready for the UFC as he secured an impressive first round KO win in his debut.
Pimblett had previously turned down two opportunities to join the UFC earlier in his career and in the process has racked up valuable experience with his record now standing at 17-3.
However, Pimblett showed holes in his game in his debut, particularly his lack of defense which can lead him to getting cracked. He's also ballooned in size following his fight at 155lbs.
Despite the flaws, 'The Baddy' appears to be skilled and popular enough to become a big star in the UFC.
#1. Michael Chandler
This one may come as somewhat of a surprise, but somehow Michael Chandler's UFC debut took place in January this year. Chandler had an incredible year in 2021, fighting three times and challenging for the lightweight title.
Chandler's UFC career began at UFC 257 when the American delivered a huge TKO victory over veteran Dan Hooker. The performance earned him a shot in a vacant lightweight title fight against Charles Oliveira. 'Iron' came agonizingly close to becoming UFC champion in just his second fight with the company, before Oliveira pulled off a come-from-behind knockout win.
Chandler rounded out the year with a tightly contested unanimous decision loss in a 'Fight of the Night' performance against Justin Gaethje.
Chandler has lived up to his billing as a world-class fighter in his first year in the UFC. Fans everywhere are sure to be excited to see what he has in store for us in 2022.
