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#4. Dominick Reyes vs. Jon Jones at UFC 247
Dominick Reyes made his first UFC appearance in 2017. He turned pro in 2014 and amassed a record of 6-0 before joining the promotion. Within two years, Reyes established himself as the No. 1 contender in the 205 lb division. He picked up wins against Jared Cannonier, Ovince Saint Preux, and former middleweight champion Chris Weidman.
In February 2020, 'The Devastator' got his shot at dethroning Jon Jones at UFC 247. The Californian began the fight positively. He disrupted Jones' rhythm with kicks and showcased better striking, landing the more accurate and damaging shots. In the first three rounds, Jones was also unable to land takedowns.
However, 'Bones' managed to turn the tide in the championship rounds. He made the right adjustments, landed multiple takedowns and overwhelmed Reyes. While the challenger looked visibly gassed, he managed to survive until the final bell. In the end, Jones was awarded a unanimous decision victory.
Though he lost, 'The Devastator' managed to outstrike one of the all-time greats for three rounds. Even in the last two rounds, he refused to let Jones control him on the ground. With his performance, Reyes won many new fans. In fact, a large number of fans and experts still believe that 'The Devastator' was robbed of a win.
#3. Nate Diaz vs. Leon Edwards at UFC 263
Nate Diaz is one of the most eccentric fighters in the UFC. The younger brother of MMA legend Nick Diaz has been fighting professionally since 2004. Since his UFC debut in 2007, he has evolved into a star and fan favorite.
Diaz has beaten big names like Donald Cerrone, Gray Maynard, Anthony Pettis, and Conor McGregor. He is a unique athlete with unorthodox striking and a strong ground game, but his biggest asset is his granite chin. At UFC 263, his durability and ability to impress fans were on full display against Leon Edwards.
On fight night, Edwards outclassed his opponent for almost the entirety of the contest, landing vicious leg kicks and precise strikes. 'Rocky' also proved to be the better grappler. However, with only a minute remaining in the final round, the Stockton native connected with a big left cross that wobbled his opponent.
The momentum had shifted in an instant. However, Diaz started mocking the Englishman when a more proactive approach could have landed him a finish. The showboating gave his opponent time to recover and, in the end, Edwards won via unanimous decision. While Diaz lost, his grit and especially his performance in the final round sent fans into a frenzy.
