June is shaping up to be an action-packed month for the UFC, with five exciting events lined up, including two major pay-per-views and a historic debut in Saudi Arabia. With a plethora of thrilling matchups on the horizon, fans have plenty to look forward to as the summer heats up. Here are the top five UFC fights to watch out for in June 2024:
#5 Sergei Pavlovich vs. Alexander Volkov – UFC on ABC 6
Scheduled as the co-main event for the UFC’s inaugural event in Saudi Arabia on June 22, this heavyweight clash between Sergei Pavlovich and Alexander Volkov promises fireworks. With both fighters known for their knockout power, fans can expect an explosive encounter that is unlikely to go the distance. Pavlovich, coming off a stunning loss to Tom Aspinall, will look to bounce back against Volkov, who has been on a tear with three consecutive finishes.
#4 Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa – UFC 302
Former middleweight titleholder Sean Strickland is set to take on former title challenger Paulo Costa in the co-headliner for UFC 302 on June 1. While there may be some uncertainty surrounding Costa’s commitment to the bout, if it proceeds, fans can anticipate a high-stakes matchup between two elite 185-pound fighters. With both men vying for a chance to climb back into title contention, expect fireworks in the octagon.
#3 Khamzat Chimaev vs. Robert Whittaker – UFC on ABC 6
Headlining the UFC’s debut event in Saudi Arabia on June 22 is a middleweight clash between former champion Robert Whittaker and rising star Khamzat Chimaev. This long-awaited showdown promises to be a test of Chimaev’s skills at 185 pounds against one of the division’s most experienced contenders. With Whittaker looking to solidify his status as a top middleweight and Chimaev aiming to continue his meteoric rise, this fight is not to be missed.
#2 Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier – UFC 302
In the main event of UFC 302, lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will defend his title against former interim champion Dustin Poirier. With Makhachev seeking to equal Khabib Nurmagomedov’s title defense record, and Poirier aiming to reclaim gold, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the division’s best. Expect a high-level clash of styles as Makhachev’s grappling meets Poirier’s striking prowess.
#1 Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler – UFC 303
The most anticipated fight of June sees the return of UFC superstar Conor McGregor, as he finally squares off against Michael Chandler in a long-awaited showdown. Set to headline UFC 303, this bout has been years in the making and carries immense significance for both fighters. With McGregor’s star power and Chandler’s elite skill set, this matchup has all the makings of a blockbuster event that could define the surface of the lightweight division.
As fans eagerly await these thrilling matchups, June is poised to deliver an unforgettable month of action inside the octagon.