5 best UFC debutants in 2021

#2. Paddy Pimblett

Pimblett debuted with a KO/TKO win at UFC Fight Night: Brunson vs. Till

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.

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#1. Michael Chandler

Chandler debuted with a TKO win at UFC 257

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.