January 9, 2024 10:00 pm ET
2023 was filled with fantastic MMA action, and fans can expect the same and more in 2024.
The new year brings fresh opportunities for exciting matchups across the MMA landscape. From the UFC to Bellator, PFL, RIZIN FF, ONE Championship, and more, 2024 promises to deliver thrills for fight fans.
While 2023 saw only four of 23 desired dream fights come to life, MMA Junkie is undeterred, and we are sharing 24 matchups we hope to see in 2024.
Below is MMA Junkie’s wish list of 24 fights we’re rooting for in 2024.
24. Jessica Andrade vs. Loopy Godinez
Nov 11, 2023; New York, NY, USA; Loopy Godinez (blue gloves) celebrates beating Tabatha Ricci (red gloves) during UFC 295 at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Loopy Godinez, who had a standout year in 2023, deserves big opportunities in 2024 after breaking the record for most victories by a female fighter in the UFC in a calendar year. Seeing her take on former champion and respected veteran Jessica Andrade in 2024 would be an entertaining match-up. Both are exceptional athletes in the division, and a clash between them would be a solid matchup for both fighters.
23. Bryce Mitchell vs. Diego Lopes
Aug 5, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Diego Lopes (red gloves) fights Gavin Tucker (blue gloves) during UFC Fight Night at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Diego Lopes has become must-see action and has numerous exciting matchups at featherweight. A match between Lopes and Bryce Mitchell promises to be spectacular, given that both fighters bring an impressive grappling game to the mat. Despite Mitchell’s recent knockout loss against Josh Emmett, this fight would make a ton of sense for both fighters.
22. Aaron Pico vs. Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire
Brazil’s Patricio Freire
Despite his setbacks in 2023, Patricio Freire remains one of the most respected names outside the UFC,