The MMA Biggest Turkeys and What We’re Most Thankful in 2024

As the holiday season begins with Thanksgiving, it’s a time to reflect on the things we’re grateful for, especially in the world of MMA. From thrilling fights to standout performances, 2024 has been an eventful year for the sport. However, alongside the highlights, there have also been some disappointing moments that left fans scratching their heads. Let’s take a closer look at what we are thankful for in mixed martial arts and the biggest turkeys of the year.

What We’re Most Thankful for in MMA

There’s a lot to celebrate in the world of MMA as we head into the final stretch of 2024. For fans, one of the most exciting aspects of the year has been the growth of the sport. UFC events have continued to dominate the pay-per-view market, with record-breaking sales and sold-out crowds. The fighters have been more electrifying than ever, pushing the boundaries of athleticism and competition.

Opportunities for fighters are expanding as well. The rise of promotions like the PFL and Bellator has provided more avenues for talent to shine. Fighters such as Islam Makhachev, Leon Edwards, and Alexander Volkanovski have become household names, and their accomplishments in 2024 have kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Additionally, the MMA fanbase is one of the most passionate and dedicated in sports. The unwavering support from fans across the globe is a major reason why the sport continues to flourish. From social media to packed arenas, the enthusiasm surrounding MMA is truly unmatched.

The Biggest Turkeys in MMA: PFL/Bellator Merger

While there’s a lot to be thankful for, not everything in MMA in 2024 has gone smoothly. One of the biggest disappointments this year came with the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator. Initially, many were excited about the merger, which promised to create a formidable No. 2 promotion to rival the UFC. Unfortunately, the reality has been far less impressive.

Rather than combining forces, the PFL and Bellator have largely remained separate entities. This has created confusion, particularly for casual fans, who struggle to follow the fragmented structure. For example, fighters like Paul Hughes were signed by the PFL but fought under Bellator, which only added to the complexity.

The PFL’s season format has also made it difficult to schedule meaningful title fights or other exciting matchups. With a reliance on tournaments and point systems to determine rankings, the PFL has faced challenges in keeping fans engaged and offering the clarity they expect from a major promotion.

UFC: A Year of Continued Dominance

Despite the setbacks with the PFL/Bellator merger, the UFC remains the gold standard in MMA. 2024 has been a stellar year for the promotion, with fights that have kept fans glued to their screens. Fighters like Jon Jones, Israel Adesanya, and Charles Oliveira have continued to deliver exceptional performances, solidifying their place as stars of the sport.

The UFC’s global expansion has also been noteworthy. With rising stars from countries like Brazil, Africa, and Russia, the UFC has broadened its reach, making MMA a more international sport than ever before. This growing diversity in fighters brings fresh energy and exciting matchups to the promotion, keeping the sport dynamic and unpredictable.

The MMA Fanbase: A Source of Endless Gratitude

Of course, we can’t forget the fans who make MMA so special. Whether watching from home or attending events, MMA fans are incredibly loyal and passionate. Their support fuels the excitement of every fight, making it a community-driven sport like no other.

Fans’ dedication to their favorite fighters, even in the face of defeat, is one of the sport’s most unique qualities. This unwavering loyalty is a big part of what makes MMA so thrilling and continues to fuel the sport’s growth year after year.

Looking Ahead: What We Hope for in MMA’s Future

As we reflect on the highlights and low points of 2024, we can’t help but feel optimistic about the future of MMA. The sport is continuing to grow, with new stars, exciting fights, and more opportunities for athletes around the world. However, for MMA promotions like PFL and Bellator, there are clear lessons to be learned from the merger missteps. Streamlining operations and creating more clarity for both fans and fighters will be crucial in ensuring that MMA remains strong in the years to come.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s clear that we have a lot to be thankful for in the world of mixed martial arts. From thrilling performances to loyal fans, the future of MMA looks brighter than ever. Here’s hoping that 2025 brings even more exciting developments for the sport we love!