UFC 231 Full Fights: Relive The Action

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the epic night that was UFC 231, a card absolutely stacked with talent and unforgettable moments. If you're looking to relive some incredible MMA action, you've come to the right place. UFC 231, which went down on December 8, 2018, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada, delivered two championship fights and a host of memorable performances that still get fans talking. We're talking about full fights, the kind that leave you on the edge of your seat, glued to the screen, and maybe even yelling at your TV. This event was a showcase of skill, heart, and pure determination, proving once again why the UFC is the pinnacle of mixed martial arts. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's break down some of the best fights from this stacked card. Whether you're a seasoned UFC veteran or new to the game, UFC 231 offered something for everyone, with finishes, strategic battles, and dominant performances that cemented legacies and set the stage for future rivalries. Get ready to rewind and experience the magic of UFC 231 all over again.

Max Holloway vs. Brian Ortega: A Featherweight Classic

When we talk about UFC 231 full fight highlights, the main event between Max Holloway and Brian Ortega is an absolute must-discuss. This wasn't just a fight; it was a masterclass in featherweight striking and a testament to the human spirit. Max Holloway, the undisputed featherweight champion, was putting his title on the line against the surging, undefeated challenger, Brian Ortega. Holloway, known for his relentless pressure, incredible volume, and seemingly endless gas tank, was looking to silence the doubters and prove he was still the king of the division. Ortega, on the other hand, was riding a wave of momentum, with a reputation for finishing fights, particularly with his dangerous jiu-jitsu and surprising knockout power. The anticipation for this fight was sky-high, and for good reason. Both guys were at the top of their game, and the contrast in their styles promised an enthralling contest. As the UFC 231 full fight began, it was clear we were in for something special. Holloway came out with his usual pace, peppering Ortega with jabs and sharp combinations. Ortega, however, was weathering the storm, looking for his opening, and trying to make it a grappling match. The early rounds saw Holloway dominate with his superior striking, landing significant blows and showcasing his championship experience. But Ortega, known for his toughness, refused to be broken. He showed incredible resilience, surviving some brutal exchanges and looking to land his own powerful shots. The turning point, or perhaps the defining characteristic of this bout, was Holloway's absolutely dominant performance through the middle rounds. He battered Ortega with an astonishing amount of strikes, each one seemingly designed to break the challenger's will. It was a display of sheer offensive brilliance, a barrage of punches that left fans in awe. You could see the damage accumulating, and many wondered if Ortega would be able to answer the bell for the next round. Yet, Brian "T-City" Ortega showed the heart of a lion. He absorbed an incredible amount of punishment, but his eyes remained focused, his will unbroken. He tried to keep himself in the fight, even attempting a few submissions that showcased his dangerous ground game. However, Holloway's defense was superb, and he managed to keep the fight standing where he was in his element. The fight was eventually stopped after the fourth round when the ringside doctor advised the referee that Ortega could no longer continue due to the accumulated damage. It was a heartbreaking but necessary stoppage, highlighting Holloway's utter dominance and Ortega's incredible toughness. Max Holloway proved why he is one of the greatest featherweights of all time, delivering a performance that will be etched in UFC history. This UFC 231 full fight was a testament to Holloway's skill and Ortega's warrior spirit, a classic encounter that fans will remember for years to come.

Joanna Jędrzejczyk vs. Valentina Shevchenko: A Flyweight Title Showdown

Moving on from the featherweight chaos, let's talk about another UFC 231 full fight that had fans buzzing: the inaugural UFC Women's Flyweight Championship bout between Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Valentina Shevchenko. This was a highly anticipated clash of styles and arguably one of the most technically gifted striking battles in women's MMA history. Joanna, a former dominant strawweight champion, was making her debut in the flyweight division, looking to claim another piece of UFC gold. She was known for her crisp striking, sharp boxing, and unwavering confidence. Valentina, a decorated muay thai champion with a dangerous arsenal of kicks and punches, was also making her debut in the flyweight division after a successful run at bantamweight, where she had famously given the champion Amanda Nunes all she could handle. The narrative going into this fight was simple: who would impose their will? Could Joanna's aggressive boxing overwhelm Valentina's diverse striking and counter-attacking prowess? Or would Valentina's precision and power prove too much for the former strawweight queen? As the UFC 231 full fight unfolded, it was a tactical chess match from the get-go. Both fighters showed immense respect for each other's striking, leading to a more measured pace than some might have expected. Joanna was trying to establish her jab and close the distance, looking to land her powerful boxing combinations. Valentina, however, was patient, using her superior reach and footwork to pepper Joanna with kicks and straight punches, countering effectively whenever Joanna overextended. The fight was incredibly close through the first few rounds, with both fighters landing significant strikes and defending well. It was a display of elite-level striking technique, with both women showcasing their defensive capabilities and offensive precision. You could see the game plan from both corners: avoid mistakes, capitalize on openings, and don't give your opponent momentum. In the later rounds, however, Valentina Shevchenko started to pull away. Her cleaner, more powerful shots began to land more consistently, and her defensive game remained impeccable. Joanna, despite her best efforts and championship grit, struggled to find the rhythm she needed to dominate. Valentina's ability to mix up her strikes, landing both head and body shots, proved to be the difference. The fight went the full five rounds, showcasing the incredible conditioning and durability of both athletes. When the judges' scorecards were read, Valentina Shevchenko was declared the winner, becoming the inaugural UFC Women's Flyweight Champion. It was a hard-fought victory, a testament to her skill, patience, and strategic brilliance. This UFC 231 full fight was a phenomenal display of technical striking, and while Joanna came up short, she proved her mettle against another elite competitor. Valentina, on the other hand, solidified her status as one of the best pound-for-pound female fighters in the world, and her championship reign was off to a dominant start.

Other Notable Fights from UFC 231

Beyond the headlining championship bouts, UFC 231 full fight action offered a plethora of exciting matchups that deserve a shout-out. This card was truly a gem, packed with rising stars and seasoned veterans delivering performances that made you stand up and take notice. One such fight that absolutely delivered was the co-main event featuring Alex "The Lionheart" Oliveira against Gunnar "Thor" Nelson. This welterweight clash was a gritty, back-and-forth affair that showcased the contrasting styles of these two warriors. Oliveira, known for his aggressive striking and opportunistic submissions, came out looking to impose his will. Nelson, a highly respected submission specialist with dangerous ground game, aimed to take the fight to the mat. The UFC 231 full fight between these two was a wild ride. Oliveira landed some heavy shots on the feet, but Nelson's toughness and resilience were on full display. In the end, it was Nelson who secured a crucial submission victory in the second round, reminding everyone of his dangerous grappling prowess. This win propelled Nelson up the welterweight rankings and solidified his position as a threat in the division. Another fight that deserves recognition is the lightweight showdown between Beneil Dariush and Thiago "Mao Sant" Moises. While not as high-profile as the title fights, this bout was a technical masterclass on the ground. Dariush, a submission wizard himself, showcased his exceptional grappling skills, controlling Moises for large portions of the fight and ultimately securing a dominant decision victory. This performance highlighted Dariush's continued development as a well-rounded fighter and his potential to climb the lightweight ladder. We also saw exciting performances from fighters like Hakeem Dawodu, who put on a striking clinic, and Chad Laprise, who delivered a powerful knockout. These UFC 231 full fight bouts, while maybe not headlining the card, are the lifeblood of the UFC. They provide the drama, the unexpected finishes, and the emergence of future stars. Every fight on this card contributed to the overall excitement and prestige of UFC 231. It was a night where veterans proved their class, and new contenders announced their arrival. The depth of talent on display was incredible, making it one of the most memorable UFC events in recent history. Fans who tuned in for the full fights were treated to a non-stop barrage of action, showcasing the best the sport has to offer. Whether you were watching live or catching up on the replays, UFC 231 delivered on all fronts, leaving a lasting impression on the MMA world.

Why UFC 231 Full Fights Are Must-Watch

Guys, if you missed UFC 231, you seriously missed out! The reason why UFC 231 full fight replays are so valuable is simple: this event was a perfect storm of high-level competition, compelling storylines, and unforgettable finishes. From the moment the first prelim fight kicked off to the final bell of the main event, the energy and excitement were palpable. The UFC 231 full fight card featured two incredibly significant championship bouts that delivered exactly what was promised and then some. Max Holloway's dominant performance against Brian Ortega wasn't just a win; it was a statement. Holloway proved that he is the undisputed king of the featherweight division, showcasing a level of striking offense that is rarely seen in MMA. Ortega, despite his incredible toughness and heart, simply couldn't overcome the relentless pressure and precision of "Blessed." This fight is a textbook example of a champion at his absolute peak, and watching the full fight allows you to appreciate the nuances of Holloway's game. Then you had the inaugural Women's Flyweight Championship fight between Valentina Shevchenko and Joanna Jędrzejczyk. This was a technical masterpiece. Two of the most skilled strikers in women's MMA going head-to-head, and it was a chess match with high stakes. Shevchenko's calculated approach and superior weaponry ultimately earned her the title, but Joanna's warrior spirit was undeniable. Watching this full fight is like attending a striking seminar taught by the best. Beyond the title fights, the undercard was absolutely stacked with talent. Fighters like Gunnar Nelson and Alex Oliveira put on a brutal war, Alex Volkanovski announced his arrival as a top contender, and Chad Laprise delivered a thunderous knockout. These UFC 231 full fight bouts are crucial because they showcase the depth of the UFC roster and the constant evolution of the sport. You see new techniques, rising stars making their mark, and established veterans reaffirming their dominance. Watching these fights allows you to appreciate the journey of these athletes and the incredible dedication it takes to compete at this level. Furthermore, the UFC 231 full fight card represented a significant moment in MMA history, with the introduction of a new women's division. This event paved the way for future flyweight contenders and added another exciting layer to the UFC's landscape. So, if you're looking for top-tier MMA action, incredible performances, and unforgettable moments, revisiting UFC 231 is a must. It’s a reminder of why we all love this sport – the skill, the heart, the drama, and the sheer athleticism on display. Don't just watch the highlights; dive into the full fights and experience the entire journey of these incredible athletes.