Making an impressive debut in the UFC is hard to do. Fighters enter under immense pressure, they are realizing a dream fighting on the biggest stage and they have to deal with the infamous “Octagon jitters.”
When they make an impression during their debut, it generates a buzz with the fans. They become an instant “fighter to watch,” and their next outing gains more interest.
Not many are able to make such an impression.
2013 has seen numerous strong debuts. The death of Strikeforce has played a strong role in the rise of strong debuts. Numerous fighters made their organizational debuts with a bang, while other fighters who worked their way up did so as well.
With more than six months in the books, we are already on our way to one of the best years in UFC history. The influx of talent has been a shining spot for the UFC.
These are the best debuts from the first half of 2013.
**While UFC 162 technically took place in the second half of the year we wanted to include it in our mid-year awards because it’s on everybody’s minds.