5 most entertaining rounds from UFC fights in 2021

#2. Round 1: Max Holloway vs. Yair Rodriguez (UFC Vegas 42)

Max Holloway's win against Yair Rodriguez via unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 42 registered the third-most combined significant strikes in a single UFC fight – 389.

Holloway looked sharp as he led with his punches and rocked Rodriguez with an explosive right hand at one point. Meanwhile, 'El Pantera' was also equally adept at striking and peppered Max Holloway with his kicks in the opening round.

It was a close contest as both fighters registered almost the same number of strikes on target. According to official UFC stats, Holloway outlanded Rodriquez 38-37 in significant strikes in the round.

In the dying moments of the first round, Rodriguez caught Holloway from behind and shot for a takedown. However, 'Blessed' managed to maintain his poise and prevented 'El Pantera' from doing any real damage.

Like most Max Holloway fights, this one was also thoroughly entertaining to watch. After five rounds of back-and-forth action, Holloway was declared the winner via unanimous decision.

Due to the injuries they sustained during the slugfest, the fighters had to miss their post-fight media duties to get medical attention. Both fighters later shared a light moment as they posed for pictures outside the venue before being taken to the hospital.

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#1. Round 3: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Brian Ortega (UFC 266)

The third round of the UFC 266 featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega delivered arguably the most entertaining round of 2021.

The round opened with both fighters continuing to test each other standing. Volkanovski was good with his combinations as he landed powerful shots on Ortega.

Things seemed to be going in the Australian's favor when a left hand from Ortega rattled 'The Great', sending him down to the floor.

Having got the opening he needed, Ortega attempted to finish Volkanovski off with a guillotine choke. However, the UFC featherweight champion miraculously managed to free himself from Ortega's grip and started raining heavy blows on his opponent from the top position.

It looked all over for the American, who seemed gassed out at this point. However, he still had one last move up his sleeve.

Sensing an opportunity, Ortega attempted another submission, this time using a triangle choke. He nearly pulled it off but Volkanovski, once again against all odds, managed to get back to his feet.

What happened next was sheer carnage. With Ortega down on the ground and bleeding, Volkanovski started hammering his head with punches. A TKO seemed imminent, but the referee decided to let things play out until the end of the round.

Volkanovski eventually won the five-round war via unanimous decision. It was the second successful title defense for the Australian.