The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is synonymous with high drama, adrenaline-pumping action, and jaw-dropping finishes. As the curtain falls on another electrifying year, it’s time to reflect on some of the most spectacular knockouts that left fans on the edge of their seats throughout 2024. In this article, we’ll explore the standout performances, sensational finishes, and the well-deserved recipients of various accolades in the knockout realm.
A Year of Unforgettable Finishes
2024 was a year teeming with thrilling encounters, but a select few fighters carved their names into the record books with awe-inspiring knockouts. Among these, a few knockouts distinguished themselves not just for their decisiveness, but also for the sheer skill and heart displayed by the fighters. Let’s dive deeper into the moments that made fans collectively gasp and cheer from January through December.
No best-of list is complete without acknowledging those who came close yet narrowly missed the top spot. Fares Ziam’s performance during his lightweight bout at UFC Paris stands out. Against veteran Matt Frevola, Ziam showcased a combination of strategy and ferocity, controlling the pace of the fight before delivering a vicious knee strike that rendered his opponent unconscious. Frevola’s eventual recovery did little to overshadow the brilliance of Ziam’s finish, marking a defining moment in his career.
Another worthy consideration is Ming Shi, who delivered a breathtaking knockout in November during the “Road to UFC” tournament at UFC Macau. Her perfectly timed right head kick stunned Xiaocan Feng, leading to an extended laydown period and a stretcher exit. Shi’s instinctive reaction post-fight showed her respect for her opponent’s safety, reflecting a valuable perspective often overlooked in such high-stakes environments.
Ilia Topuria also earned recognition for a historic achievement when he became the first fighter to knock out MMA legends Max Holloway at UFC 308. Topuria’s calculated performance culminated in a stunning combination that secured a definitive victory, proving that his predictions of success held weight in the octagon.
Crowning a “Knockout of the Year” is always subjective, yet one particular moment from 2024 resonated deeply within the MMA community: Max Holloway’s magnificent finish against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300. Their eagerly awaited clash featured a perfect blend of technique, strategy, and grit, culminating in a historic finish that showcased the true potential of the sport.
The bout demonstrated a contrasting narrative, with Holloway opting for calculated precision in the first rounds while Gaethje employed hard-hitting boxing. Remarkably, a well-timed jumping back kick to Gaethje’s face at the end of Round 1 set the stage for Holloway’s dominance. Tactical blunders plagued Gaethje: a couple of accidental eye pokes and an inability to find his rhythm, hampered by Holloway’s speed advantage.
As the fight progressed, tension brewed. Round 4 saw Gaethje delivering a long-awaited counter that knocked Holloway down, but it was in the final seconds of Round 5 where the narrative changed completely. Holloway unleashed a devastating combination that ended with an overhand right, sending Gaethje crashing to the canvas. This spectacular finish was not just another highlight; it was a statement of supremacy. The unanimous acclaim from the MMA Junkie team solidified Holloway’s knockout as the pinnacle of 2024, etching it into the annals of UFC history.
Looking Ahead: What Does 2025 Hold?
As we bid farewell to the stellar knockouts of 2024, anticipation builds for the new year. The MMA landscape continuously evolves, as new contenders emerge and veterans seek to reclaim glory. Each bout presents an opportunity for fighters to craft their legacies, and with the promise of new matchups, fans can only imagine the breathtaking moments waiting on the horizon.
Wishing the best for all athletes stepping into the octagon next year, we celebrate the spirit of competition and the artistry inherent in MMA. Let us know your favorite knockout of the year in the comments below as we prepare for another thrilling chapter in the world of mixed martial arts.