UFC's Most Lethal Bouts: Fights That Sent Fighters to the Hospital

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is known for its thrilling and intense matchups, but sometimes the battles inside the octagon cross the line into dangerous territory. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most lethal UFC fights that left fighters hospitalized due to the sheer brutality and intensity of the competition. These are the fights that pushed the fighters to their limits and beyond, resulting in injuries and medical attention.

1. Diego Sanchez vs. Gilbert Melendez:

   
   
   This lightweight clash at UFC 166 in 2013 was a brutal war, with both fighters delivering and absorbing punishment. The fight was so grueling that it ended with both fighters needing medical attention due to injuries sustained during the bout.

2. Rory MacDonald vs. Robbie Lawler II:

   
   
   The rematch between MacDonald and Lawler at UFC 189 in 2015 is often cited as one of the bloodiest battles in UFC history. Both fighters left everything in the cage, but it was MacDonald who ended up in the hospital due to a shattered nose and significant facial damage.

3. Mark Hunt vs. Antonio Silva I :

   
   
   The heavyweight showdown at UFC Fight Night 33 in 2013 was a back-and-forth war that ultimately resulted in a draw. Both fighters absorbed a tremendous amount of punishment, and Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva was hospitalized due to the injuries he sustained.

4. Carlos Condit vs. Robbie Lawler:

   
   
   At UFC 195 in 2016, Carlos Condit and Robbie Lawler engaged in an unforgettable welterweight title fight. Condit was taken to the hospital after the bout due to the damage he incurred in a closely contested battle that went the distance.

5. Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal:

   
   
   The highly anticipated bout at UFC 244 in 2019 for the "BMF" title saw Nate Diaz take on Jorge Masvidal. The fight was thrilling but got halted due to a doctor's stoppage after the third round, sending Diaz to the hospital for facial injuries.

6. Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs. Weili Zhang:

   
   
   This epic strawweight title clash at UFC 248 in 2020 was a five-round war that resulted in both fighters absorbing a tremendous amount of damage. Joanna Jedrzejczyk's grotesquely swollen forehead sent her to the hospital after a close defeat.

Conclusion: The UFC has witnessed its fair share of battles that push the boundaries of brutality, leading fighters to require medical attention and hospitalization. These unforgettable clashes are a testament to the immense courage and resilience of the fighters who put everything on the line in the octagon. While these bouts may have resulted in injuries and hospital stays, they also showcase the heart and determination of the fighters who compete at the highest level of mixed martial arts. UFC fans will forever remember these lethal bouts as some of the most memorable and intense moments in the sport's history.