7 Unforgettable Duels in Star Wars Canon That Defined the Saga

Lightsaber duels are some of the most exciting and memorable parts of the Star Wars movies and shows. 

They show the battles between good and evil and often mark important moments in the characters’ journeys. 

In this article, we will look at the top 7 best duels in Star Wars canon, ranking them based on their excitement, emotional impact, and importance to the story.

#7. Count Dooku Fights Yoda

In “Attack of the Clones,” Count Dooku and Yoda clash in an epic duel. 

The events leading up to this battle involve Count Dooku, a former Jedi who has turned to the dark side, leading a separatist movement against the Republic. Dooku captures Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, prompting Yoda to come to their rescue. 

The duel takes place in a dark hangar, where Dooku tries to escape. 

Yoda’s surprising agility and power, despite his small size, make this fight unforgettable. 

Fans loved seeing Yoda in action for the first time, showcasing his incredible skills and proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to the Force.

#6. Darth Maul and Savage Opress Battle Darth Sidious

In “The Clone Wars” series, the intense battle between Darth Maul, his brother Savage Opress, and Darth Sidious is a highlight. 

The events leading up to this duel involve Maul and Savage gaining power and causing chaos in the galaxy, which threatens Sidious’s plans. 

Sidious decides to eliminate them personally. 

The fight takes place in Maul’s stronghold, with all three using red lightsabers. 

Maul even pulls out the darksaber, adding to the fight’s excitement. 

Fans appreciated the high stakes and the brutal combat, making it one of the most memorable duels in the series.

#5. Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi Duel Darth Maul

The “Duel of the Fates” in “The Phantom Menace” is a classic Star Wars moment. 

Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi face off against Darth Maul, a Sith Lord sent by Darth Sidious. 

The duel happens in the Theed Palace on Naboo, as Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan try to protect Queen Amidala and free the planet from the Trade Federation’s blockade. 

The fast-paced action, incredible choreography, and John Williams’ epic score make this duel unforgettable. 

Fans remember this duel for its excitement and the tragic end, where Qui-Gon is killed, leaving Obi-Wan to defeat Maul alone.

#4. Darth Maul Fights Ahsoka

In the final season of “The Clone Wars,” Darth Maul battles Ahsoka Tano in an intense duel. 

The events leading up to this fight involve Ahsoka, a former Jedi, returning to help capture Maul, who has taken over Mandalore. 

The duel takes place in the throne room of Mandalore, with fiery explosions and dramatic lighting. 

Ahsoka fights to stop Maul’s plans and protect the Republic. 

The choreography is stunning, and the fight is filled with emotion as both characters have deep, personal stakes in the battle. 

Fans loved seeing Ahsoka hold her own against Maul, making this duel one of the series’ highlights.

#3. Yoda Fights Darth Sidious

In “Revenge of the Sith,” Yoda faces Darth Sidious in a thrilling duel. 

The events leading up to this battle involve the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire. 

Sidious, revealed as Emperor Palpatine, has declared himself ruler and wiped out most of the Jedi. 

Yoda confronts Sidious in the Galactic Senate chamber in an attempt to stop him. 

The clash between the light and dark sides of the Force is intense, with Yoda’s agility and Sidious’s cunning on full display. 

Fans were amazed by the scale and stakes of this duel, making it one of the most epic battles in Star Wars.

#2. Darth Vader Fights Old Obi-Wan Kenobi

The duel between Darth Vader and Old Obi-Wan Kenobi in “A New Hope” is iconic.

The events leading up to this duel involve Obi-Wan and Luke Skywalker attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the Death Star. 

Obi-Wan confronts his former apprentice, now turned Sith Lord, to give Luke and his friends a chance to escape. 

The fight is not as flashy as some others, but it carries significant emotional weight. 

Obi-Wan sacrifices himself, becoming one with the Force, which allows Luke and the others to escape. 

Fans respect this duel for its simplicity and its importance in the original trilogy.

#1. Anakin Skywalker Fights Obi-Wan Kenobi on Mustafar

The final duel between Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi in “Revenge of the Sith” is the most intense and emotional fight in Star Wars. 

The events leading up to this duel involve Anakin’s fall to the dark side, becoming Darth Vader, and helping Sidious overthrow the Republic. 

Obi-Wan is sent to stop him, leading to a confrontation on the volcanic planet Mustafar. 

The duel takes place with lava erupting around them, symbolizing the fiery end of their friendship. 

The choreography is stunning, and the emotion is raw as friends turn into enemies.

Fans consider this duel the best because of its high stakes, dramatic setting, and powerful storytelling.