Injuries aside, the UFC had an extremely successful 2016. Four of the largest PPVs in UFC history occurred in 2016 (UFC 196, UFC 200, UFC 202, UFC 205) and the company sold for a whopping $4.2 Billion.
How do they top that in 2017? By putting on the best fights possible.
The UFC has managed to create multiple crossover stars the past two years and with those athlete’s futures uncertain, it is important for the UFC to capitalize immediately.
The following 10 fights are those that excite fans and when the fans are pleased the numbers reflect positively. What a simple business model, right? **cough, cough, Boxing**
10. Cody Garbrandt vs T.J. Dillashaw
This fight is somewhat dependent on whether Garbrandt is able to win the men’s bantamweight title at UFC 207. Dillashaw is the clear-cut #1 contender and unless Cruz was to receive an immediate rematch, medical suspensions may also play a role in that timetable, then ex-Team Alpha Male member Dillashaw is prime for a huge match-up. With a loss at UFC 207 Cody will have to wait his turn in line for a shot at what we assume is the next title fight between a victorious Cruz & T.J. Dillashaw.
9. Jon Jones vs Daniel Cormier 2
2016 teased us twice with the biggest rematch in UFC light heavyweight history. If it wasn’t for the Jon Jones loss Daniel Cormier’s name would be amongst the greatest of all-time. A two-division undefeated fighter and former Olympian. Instead, Cormier is the champion that craves vengeance for his sole loss.
Too bad Cormier’s injuries and Jones’ legal/suspension troubles have led to the fights eluding UFC fans for almost 2 years. DC is in his late-30’s and his body is showing the wear-and-tear. The rematch has to happen in 2017 and the added ammo for trash talk will make the build up even better than the first.
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