When it comes to the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), nothing gets the adrenaline pumping quite like a spectacular knockout. Over the years, the UFC has delivered some truly unforgettable moments inside the Octagon. From devastating head kicks to thunderous punches, here are the top 20 UFC knockouts of all time, up to 2024.
All Knockouts Video Clips
1. Anderson Silva vs. Vitor Belfort – UFC 126
It’s only fitting that we start this list with one of the most iconic knockouts in UFC history. Anderson Silva’s front kick to Vitor Belfort’s face at UFC 126 left fans in awe. The precision and speed of Silva’s strike were unmatched, solidifying his status as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
2. Conor McGregor vs. Jose Aldo – UFC 194
Conor McGregor’s rise to stardom reached its peak when he faced Jose Aldo for the featherweight title. In just 13 seconds, McGregor landed a devastating left hook that sent Aldo crashing to the canvas. It was a moment that showcased McGregor’s power and left the MMA world stunned.
3. Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren – UFC 239
When it comes to quick knockouts, few can top Jorge Masvidal’s flying knee against Ben Askren. In just five seconds, Masvidal delivered a flying knee that instantly knocked Askren out cold. It was a highlight-reel moment that will be remembered for years to come.
4. Francis Ngannou vs. Alistair Overeem – UFC 218
Francis Ngannou’s knockout power is legendary, and his devastating uppercut against Alistair Overeem solidified his reputation as one of the scariest heavyweights in the UFC. The sheer force of Ngannou’s punch sent Overeem flying through the air, making it one of the most memorable knockouts in recent years.
5. Ronda Rousey vs. Bethe Correia – UFC 190
Ronda Rousey was known for her dominant performances, and her knockout of Bethe Correia was no exception. In just 34 seconds, Rousey landed a powerful right hook that ended the fight and silenced her critics. It was a statement victory that showcased Rousey’s striking abilities.
6. Dan Henderson vs. Michael Bisping – UFC 100
Dan Henderson’s right hook against Michael Bisping at UFC 100 is often referred to as one of the most brutal knockouts in UFC history. The force of Henderson’s punch was so powerful that Bisping was knocked out before he even hit the ground. It was a knockout that will forever be etched in MMA history.
7. Edson Barboza vs. Terry Etim – UFC 142
When it comes to spinning wheel kicks, few can match Edson Barboza’s technique. His knockout of Terry Etim at UFC 142 is a perfect example of his striking prowess. Barboza’s spinning wheel kick landed flush on Etim’s jaw, instantly ending the fight and earning him a spot on this list.
8. Holly Holm vs. Ronda Rousey – UFC 193
Holly Holm shocked the world when she knocked out Ronda Rousey at UFC 193. In the second round, Holm landed a perfectly timed head kick that sent Rousey crashing to the canvas. It was a stunning upset that dethroned Rousey and solidified Holm as a force to be reckoned with.
9. Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Mirko Cro Cop – UFC 70
Gabriel Gonzaga’s head kick knockout of Mirko Cro Cop at UFC 70 is often regarded as one of the most brutal knockouts in UFC history. The force of Gonzaga’s kick was so powerful that it left Cro Cop unconscious on the canvas. It was a knockout that sent shockwaves through the MMA world.
10. Conor McGregor vs. Eddie Alvarez – UFC 205
Conor McGregor made history at UFC 205 when he became the first fighter to hold two UFC titles simultaneously. In the second round, McGregor landed a devastating four-punch combination that ended with a left hook, knocking Alvarez out and solidifying his status as a UFC legend.
11. Chuck Liddell vs. Tito Ortiz – UFC 47
Chuck Liddell’s knockout of Tito Ortiz at UFC 47 is a classic example of his punching power. Liddell landed a clean right hook that sent Ortiz crashing to the canvas, ending the fight in the second round. It was a knockout that showcased Liddell’s striking skills and further cemented his status as a UFC legend.
12. Junior dos Santos vs. Cain Velasquez – UFC on Fox 1
Junior dos Santos’ knockout of Cain Velasquez at UFC on Fox 1 earned him the UFC heavyweight title. In just over a minute, dos Santos landed a powerful overhand right that sent Velasquez to the ground. It was a knockout that marked the beginning of dos Santos’ reign as heavyweight champion.
13. Lyoto Machida vs. Randy Couture – UFC 129
Lyoto Machida’s knockout of Randy Couture at UFC 129 is a perfect example of his unorthodox striking style. Machida landed a perfectly timed front kick to Couture’s face, instantly ending the fight. It was a knockout that showcased Machida’s precision and creativity inside the Octagon.
14. Matt Hughes vs. Carlos Newton – UFC 34
Matt Hughes’ knockout of Carlos Newton at UFC 34 is often regarded as one of the most controversial knockouts in UFC history. Hughes lifted Newton in the air and slammed him to the canvas, knocking him unconscious. It was a knockout that sparked debate and left fans divided.
15. Mauricio Rua vs. Lyoto Machida I – UFC 104
Mauricio Rua’s knockout of Lyoto Machida at UFC 104 is a perfect example of his power and resilience. In the first round, Rua landed a series of punches that sent Machida crashing to the canvas. It was a knockout that ended Machida’s undefeated streak and earned Rua the light heavyweight title.
16. Amanda Nunes vs. Cris Cyborg – UFC 232
Amanda Nunes shocked the MMA world when she knocked out Cris Cyborg at UFC 232. In just 51 seconds, Nunes landed a series of powerful punches that left Cyborg unconscious. It was a knockout that solidified Nunes as one of the greatest female fighters of all time.
17. Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier II – UFC 214
Jon Jones’ head kick knockout of Daniel Cormier at UFC 214 was a defining moment in their rivalry. In the third round, Jones landed a perfectly timed head kick that sent Cormier crashing to the canvas. It was a knockout that showcased Jones’ versatility and cemented his status as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. However, the result was later overturned to a “no contest” after Jones tested positive for a banned substance, and the title was returned to Cormier.
18. Israel Adesanya vs. Robert Whittaker – UFC 243
Israel Adesanya’s knockout of Robert Whittaker at UFC 243 was a crowning moment in his career. In the second round, Adesanya landed a powerful right hook that sent Whittaker crashing to the canvas. It was a knockout that unified the middleweight title and solidified Adesanya as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC.