The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) thrives on the exhilarating moments that unfold in the octagon, and 2024 has been no exception. As the dust settles on another electrifying year, fans and analysts alike are reflecting on the most jaw-dropping knockouts that captivated audiences from January through December. This retrospective not only celebrates the skill and athleticism involved in these finishes but also highlights the athletes who brought them to life.
From pulse-pounding finishes to strategic tactical displays, the past year has witnessed an assortment of riveting knockouts. MMA Junkie has curated a list of five standout performances, along with the prestigious Knockout of the Year award. Among the thrilling finishes, a couple of names stand out for their ability to create unforgettable moments that could very well redefine the narrative of their careers.
One such memorable moment arrived when Fares Ziam faced Matt Frevola in a lightweight bout at UFC Paris. Ziam not only showcased his striking prowess but also demonstrated an evolving skill set that included adept takedown mixes. The climax of the fight came when Ziam connected with a devastating knee during a clinch, an impeccable execution that left Frevola sprawling on the mat. While a notable victory, the aftermath reminded spectators that MMA can be both exhilarating and perilous, as Frevola needed medical assistance following the knockout.
Another highlight in the year’s journey came from Ming Shi, who displayed untamed ferocity at UFC Macau during the “Road to UFC” tournament. Shi’s perfectly timed head kick delivered a thunderous result, halting her opponent Xiaocan Feng in his tracks. The severity of the knockout served as a sobering reminder of the sport’s risks. Despite the triumph, Shi noted her concern for Feng’s well-being, shining a light on the camaraderie often present among fighters despite the hostile environment of competition.
The MMA landscape shifted once again when Ilia Topuria entered the cage against the revered Max Holloway as part of UFC 308. Topuria boldly declared his intent to be the first fighter to knock Holloway out in the octagon, a feat that few had thought possible. The bout unfolded with Topuria tactically breaking down Holloway’s renowned striking defense. In a pivotal third round, Topuria’s precision punches found their mark on Holloway’s chin, leading to a knockout that resonated throughout the featherweight division. This moment underscored the idea that in a sport where legends are a dime a dozen, new contenders are constantly emerging, forever challenging the established order.
Adding further excitement to the year was Vinicius Oliveira’s spectacular debut at UFC Fight Night 238. Facing Bernardo Sopaj, Oliveira produced a knockout that sent shockwaves through the MMA community. The flying knee strike that grounded Sopaj would go down as an explosion of athleticism and timing, replayed in highlight reels for years to come. Oliveira’s knack for the dramatic and flair for the sensational propelled him into the spotlight, earning recognition not just for the knockout but for his enthusiastic performance throughout the bout.
However, the crown of Knockout of the Year was ultimately claimed by Max Holloway himself in a nail-biting showdown against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300. This fight exemplified the art of striking, as both fighters delivered a striking clinic rife with tactical nuance. Holloway, in the final moments of the fight, unleashed a monstrous overhand right that flattened Gaethje seconds before the final horn. Compile the strategic buildup, the audience’s palpable tension, and the stunning execution, and it is easy to see why this knockout commandeered the respect and accolades it received.
The impact of this finish reverberates beyond just the numbers. Holloway’s victory not only secured him the BMF title but also cemented his legacy as one of the most fearsome strikers in UFC history. In battling through adversity while wearing the mantle of an icon, Holloway’s knockout highlighted the indomitable spirit that typifies the best in MMA—and that spirit treads the precarious line between victory and devastation.
As observers of the sport, we can only look back in awe at the knockouts that shaped 2024 into a memorable chapter of MMA history. With its blend of skill, strategy, and sheer ferocity, this year demonstrated the unpredictable nature of the sport, where any match can morph into a highlight-reel finish at any moment. As we reminisce, the thought lingers: who will step up next season to deliver the next unforgettable moment? Only time will tell, but the anticipation for what’s next is, without question, part of the allure of mixed martial arts.