This Saturday, the Octagon vibrates with history as the UFC reaches its 300th Pay-Per-View. UFC 300 marks a trilogy of milestones. UFC 100, 200, and the upcoming 300 will stand as pillars of mixed martial arts history.
A Look Back at UFC 100 and 200
We take a quick trip down memory lane. UFC 100 witnessed the rise of Brock Lesnar, who demolished Frank Mir to become a heavyweight icon. This fight shattered pay-per-view records, solidifying the UFC’s place in the combat sports world. We can’t forget Dan Henderson’s legendary knockout of Michael Bisping, a right hand so brutal it’s forever etched in UFC lore.
Fast forward to UFC 200, another night that redefined the sport. Amanda Nunes cemented her dominance with a lightning-fast submission win, while the heavyweight clash between Lesnar and Hunt saw Lesnar winning by decision before failing a drug test, ultimately making this fight a no-contest. From Daniel Cormier’s clinical dismantling of Anderson Silva to Jose Aldo’s triumphant return, UFC 200 delivered unforgettable moments.
The Iron Man: Jim Miller Stands Alone
But one name bridges these historic events: Jim Miller. The UFC’s ultimate warrior, Miller is the only fighter competing at UFC 300 who also graced the octagon at UFC 100 and 200. A testament to his longevity and grit, Miller embodies the spirit of the UFC – a place where legends are born.
UFC 300
Light Heavyweight Title Fight: Alex Pereira (c) vs. Jamahal Hill
The main event for UFC 300 is a battle between two of the best strikers in the UFC. The light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira takes on former champion Jamahal Hill. Hill is looking to get the belt back after vacating it due to an injury, fighting for the first time in 16 months. Pereira has emerged as one of the biggest stars in the UFC, becoming a double champion just two years into joining the promotion. Both men will come into this fight looking to stand and bang. With the amount of question marks surrounding Jamahal Hill, along with the momentum and power Alex Pereira has, look for Pereira to knock out Hill late in the second round for his first title defense at light heavyweight.
Women’s Strawweight Title Fight: Zhang Weili (c) vs. Yan Xiaonan
The queen, Zhang Weili, defends her strawweight crown against the tenacious Yan Xiaonan. This fight will make history as the first title fight in UFC history with two Chinese fighters. Zhang has looked unstoppable in her last three fights and will look to add another title defense at UFC 300. Xiaonan has incredible kickboxing and will be able to find some success at range. Her most recent win came by a vicious knockout over Jessica Andrade in round one. If she can find that shot in this fight, it can give the big underdog a chance for the upset. Zhang Weili is hands down one of, if not the most complete women’s fighter on the roster. Look for Zhang to feel out Xiaonan early in this fight, before ultimately finding a finish late in the fourth round.
BMF Title Fight: Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway
Two fan favorites collide in a lightweight battle destined for Fight of the Night honors. Max “Blessed” Holloway is moving up a weight class for the second time in his UFC career. Justin Gaethje found his stride in 2023, going 2-0 and looking to get one more shot at the title before he retires. Holloway and Gaethje are stylistically very similar, which will give their fans exactly what they want. Gaethje will get the better of the exchanges early in the fight, but Holloway is just way too durable. Look for Holloway to take advantage of his five-round fight experience, wearing down Gaethje on his way to a TKO victory in round four.
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