50 MMA Fights You Must Watch Before You Die
39. Eddie Alvarez Vs. Justin Gaethje - UFC 218
Prior to this incredible lightweight scrap, Justin Gaethje looked nearly unstoppable. He certainly wasn't perfect, but any glaring defensive holes in his game were hidden by the sheer volume and power of his attacks. His opponents simply couldn't take advantage of his flaws because they were too busy trying to not get knocked out. That was until he met former UFC champion and 155lb veteran Eddie Alvarez in his second fight in the UFC.
Alvarez was already known for pulling out gutsy performances and having an attack-heavy skillset, so the fight with Gaethje quickly became a battle of attrition. Gaethje used his signature vicious leg kicks to try and chop Alvarez down, whereas Alvarez battered Gaethje's torso with repeated body shots.
Despite both men being severely damaged going into the third round, they continued to trade strikes right in the centre of the Octagon. Even with his leg battered and bruised, Alvarez somehow managed to land a crushing knee to Gaethje's temple that sent him crashing headfirst onto the canvas, taking away his undefeated record in the process.