November 2024 delivered unbridled excitement in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), with fighters showcasing exceptional skills and raw power inside the octagon. This article takes a closer look at some of the most jaw-dropping knockouts that marked the month, capturing both the intensity of the bouts and the athletes’ remarkable abilities. The following sections detail five standout performances, culminating in the announcement of the Knockout of the Month.
Throughout the month, fans were treated to a cacophony of thrilling encounters. Among these were some breathtaking finishes that left spectators in awe. From well-executed techniques to full-blown power strikes, the fighters pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the ring. Each knockout tells a unique story, reflecting the fighters’ journey and expertise honed over years of training.
Oban Elliott’s Breakthrough Moment at UFC 309
On November 16, during UFC 309 at the iconic Madison Square Garden, Oban Elliott faced Bassil Hafez in a welterweight bout that would define his career. The fight unfolded with Elliott maintaining a solid grip on the match, controlling his opponent for the first two rounds. However, in an electrifying twist, he delivered a devastating right hand that knocked Hafez to the canvas in the final round. The precision and timing of the strike sent shockwaves through the audience, prompting the referee to step in and halt the contest. Elliott’s performance not only marked his maiden finish in the UFC but also solidified his status as a fighter to watch.
Inside the same event, UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the greatest in the sport. He faced the former champion, Stipe Miocic, in what turned out to be a jaw-dropping affair. Jones started strong, applying relentless ground and pound in the opening round, setting the tone for the fight. His signature striking was on full display, including a remarkable spinning back kick that landed flush against Miocic’s body. It was an exemplary moment of technique and power that would send Miocic into retirement, emphasizing Jones’ dominance in the heavyweight division.
It wasn’t only Jones who dazzled fans with innovative striking. At UFC Fight Night 248 in Macau, Muslim Salikhov delivered a spectacular wheel kick that sent Song Kenan crashing to the mat. Known for his striking prowess, Salikhov’s execution was pristine, proving to be an exemplary display of martial arts that earned him recognition as “The King of Kung Fu.” The knockout showcased his ability to blend beauty with brutality, leaving fans eager for his next fight.
Costello van Steenis’ Impressive Head Kick
During the 2024 PFL Championship prelims in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Costello van Steenis made his presence felt with a powerful head kick that left Joao Dantas reeling. Fighting for the first time under the PFL banner, the Bellator veteran added another knockout to his résumé. His striking proficiency illustrates the high-stakes nature of the sport and the continued evolution of fighters transitioning across different organizations.
Ming Shi’s Historic Knockout
The highlight of November was undoubtedly Ming Shi’s fight at UFC Fight Night 248. In a nail-biting showdown against Xiaocan Feng, Shi unleashed a perfectly timed right head kick in the third round that ended the contest spectacularly. The strike was so forceful that Feng remained down for several minutes, requiring medical attention. Shi’s post-fight remarks displayed her sportsmanship, as she expressed concern for her opponent, demonstrating the camaraderie that persists even amid fierce competition. With this knockout, Shi not only captured her moment in the spotlight but also set the stage for a promising career in the UFC.
November 2024 was a monumental month for MMA, highlighted by extraordinary knockouts that thrilled audiences around the globe. Each fighter brought their unique style and artistry to the octagon, leaving a lasting impression in the minds of fans and pundits alike. The month serves as a reminder of the intense rivalry and immense talent present in the sport, with each knockout offering a glimpse into the potential future of its stars. As we look ahead, the performances from November set an exciting precedent for what is to come in the subsequent months of MMA action.