UFC Knockouts 2020: The Best Finishes
What's up, fight fans! If you're anything like me, you live for those jaw-dropping, earth-shattering moments in the Octagon. And let me tell you, 2020, despite all the craziness in the world, delivered some absolute stunners when it came to UFC knockouts. We're talking about fights that ended in the blink of an eye, leaving fans, and usually the opponent, completely speechless. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's rewind through some of the most sickening KOs the UFC gifted us in 2020. These weren't just wins; these were statements, moments etched into MMA history, proving that one punch, one kick, or one well-timed slam can change everything. We saw veterans show their enduring power and rising stars announce their arrival with thunderous finishes. Get ready for a serious dose of adrenaline as we break down the fights where the lights went out, the crowd went wild, and the winners cemented their highlight reels. It’s time to relive the KOs that had us jumping off our couches!
The Rise of New Powerhouses and Veteran Dominance
When we talk about the best UFC knockouts of 2020, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the sheer diversity of power on display. We saw established legends reminding everyone why they're still at the top, delivering clinical, brutal finishes that spoke volumes about their skill and experience. These weren't just lucky shots; they were the culmination of years of dedication, precision striking, and an understanding of timing that only true champions possess. Dustin Poirier's absolute war with Dan Hooker was a Fight of the Year contender, and while it went the distance, the sheer ferocity and display of striking power from both guys was a prelude to the kind of explosive finishes we’d see elsewhere. But it wasn't just the old guard; 2020 was also a massive year for up-and-coming talent who exploded onto the scene with devastating KOs. Fighters like Khamzat Chimaev, who burst onto the UFC scene with unbelievable performances, including a light speed knockout against Gerald Meerschaert that left the MMA world stunned. His dominance and aggression were unlike anything we’d seen in a long time, signaling the arrival of a potential future superstar. We also witnessed Joaquin Buckley deliver one of the most spectacular knockouts of the year, maybe even of all time, with his spinning back kick against Impa Kasanganay. This wasn't just a knockout; it was a highlight reel in itself, a moment of pure athletic brilliance that defied expectation and instantly became legendary. The year proved that the UFC’s talent pool is deeper than ever, with fighters from all backgrounds and experience levels capable of producing breathtaking finishes. Whether it was a perfectly placed head kick, a devastating body shot that crumpled an opponent, or a thunderous right hand that ended the fight instantly, 2020 delivered a consistent stream of unforgettable knockouts. We saw how fighters adapted their strategies, sometimes relying on explosive power, other times on technical precision, to achieve the ultimate goal: finishing the fight and earning that bonus.
Featherweight Firepower: Volkanovski vs. Holloway Rematch
While the Featherweight division might not always be associated with the most brutal KOs due to the lighter weight classes, the rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway at UFC 251 was a masterclass in striking that almost ended in a finish. Although it went to a decision, the sheer volume and accuracy of Volkanovski's striking, coupled with Holloway's incredible resilience, showcased the highest level of stand-up battles. However, looking at pure knockouts in that division, we often see fighters like Yair Rodriguez bring that exciting, unpredictable striking that could lead to a spectacular finish on any given night. His knockout of Jeremy Stephens at UFC Mexico City was a brilliant display of speed and precision, showcasing his potential to deliver highlight-reel moments. It's these kinds of performances that keep the division exciting and fans on the edge of their seats, always anticipating that next explosive combination. The technical prowess displayed by the top featherweights is immense, and when they connect cleanly, the result is often fight-ending, even if it doesn't always end up being a clean KO due to the opponent's toughness or the referee's intervention.
Lightweight Mayhem: Gaethje's Brutal Power
Oh boy, the Lightweight division in 2020 was an absolute warzone, and Justin Gaethje was right in the thick of it, dishing out some serious punishment. His fight against Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 was more than just a fight; it was a violent, tactical masterpiece. Gaethje, known for his relentless pressure and devastating leg kicks, completely dismantled Ferguson over five rounds. While it wasn't a traditional one-punch KO, Gaethje's technical knockout (TKO) victory was a brutal display of striking dominance. He systematically broke Ferguson down with an onslaught of punches and kicks, particularly his crippling leg kicks that visibly hampered Ferguson's movement. The referee eventually stepped in, recognizing Ferguson was no longer able to intelligently defend himself. This fight earned Gaethje a title shot and showcased why he's one of the most feared strikers in the division. Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Justin Gaethje was another huge fight, though it didn't end in a KO, it highlighted the elite striking of both men before Khabib secured his submission win. But Gaethje's performances throughout the year, particularly his TKO win over Ferguson, cemented his place among the best knockout artists in the lightweight class. His style is built for excitement, and while submissions and decisions also happen, Gaethje’s path to victory almost always involves inflicting significant damage, making him a perennial favorite for fight-ending finishes.
Welterweight Warriors: Edwards's Head Kick KO
In the Welterweight division, Leon Edwards delivered a career-defining knockout at UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Masvidal in March 2019, but his continued dominance throughout 2020 kept him in the conversation for exciting finishes. While his fights in 2020 didn't all end in KOs, his performance against Rafael dos Anjos showcased his well-rounded skills and potential for explosive offense. However, the unforgettable head kick knockout he landed on Donald Cerrone in 2018 is the kind of fight-ending power that fans always expect from him. When Edwards lands clean, especially with his kicks, it’s often lights out. He’s a technical striker with power, and his progression through the rankings means he’s constantly facing tougher opponents, increasing the likelihood of spectacular finishes. Even when fights go to decision, Edwards’s striking output and defensive capabilities are often on full display, building anticipation for the next time he unleashes his full arsenal. His ability to remain composed and strike with precision makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the stacked welterweight division, always keeping the possibility of a highlight-reel KO alive.
Middleweight Knockouts: The Division of Power
Alright guys, let's talk about the Middleweight division, a place where knockouts are practically a guarantee! 2020 was a wild ride for the 185-pounders, and we saw some absolute bombs dropped. One of the most memorable KOs has to be Marvin Vettori's TKO victory over Jack Hermansson. Vettori showed incredible heart and power, finishing Hermansson in the first round with relentless ground and pound after stunning him on the feet. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement from Vettori, proving he's a force to be reckoned with in the division. Then you have guys like Jared Cannonier, who despite his loss to Robert Whittaker, put on a spectacular performance against Jack Hermansson the year prior with a brutal TKO. His striking is heavy and accurate, making him a constant threat to end fights early. We also can't forget Paulo Costa, who, despite losing to Adesanya, brought insane power and intensity to his fights, including his brutal TKO win over Yoel Romero in 2019, which set the stage for his 2020 showdown. Costa's combination of size, power, and aggression makes him a walking highlight reel, and fans were eagerly anticipating his next big finish. The Middleweight division is truly stacked with knockout artists, and 2020 only reinforced that reputation, giving us plenty of moments where the lights went out in spectacular fashion. It’s a division where you can always expect fireworks, and the fighters consistently deliver.
The Knockout of the Year Contender: Joaquin Buckley
If there's one knockout that absolutely defined 2020 and will be talked about for years to come, it's Joaquin Buckley's unbelievable spinning back kick finish of Impa Kasanganay at UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Weidman. Seriously, guys, this wasn't just a knockout; it was a work of art, a moment of pure, unadulterated athleticism that took the entire MMA world by storm. Buckley, who was seemingly in a tough spot, unleashed a flying, spinning back kick that landed flush on Kasanganay’s chin, instantly sending him to the canvas. The precision, the timing, the audacity – it had everything! It was so stunning that it immediately went viral, earning him Knockout of the Year honors from numerous outlets. This single moment catapulted Buckley into the spotlight and showcased the incredible, unpredictable talent that exists within the UFC. It’s moments like these that remind us why we love this sport – the potential for the extraordinary, the sheer athletic brilliance that can unfold in the blink of an eye. Buckley's KO wasn't just a win; it was a historic event, a defining image of UFC in 2020, and a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unbelievable things happen when you least expect them. It’s the kind of highlight that gets replayed endlessly and inspires a new generation of fighters to think outside the box and train those highlight-reel techniques.
Light Heavyweight Power Plays
Moving up to the Light Heavyweight division, 2020 continued the trend of explosive finishes. While the division is often known for its technical battles, we saw some fighters step up and deliver brutal KOs. Dominick Reyes, despite his controversial loss to Jon Jones, showed his power earlier in the year with a dominant performance against Chris Weidman, winning via TKO. Reyes demonstrated sharp striking and the ability to put away a dangerous opponent. Another fighter who consistently brings the heat is Ion Cutelaba, known for his aggressive style and knockout power. Though his fights in 2020 might not have all ended in KOs, his reputation and past performances, like his quick finish of Khalid Murataev (though not in UFC, it showcases his power), mean he's always a threat. The division also saw Jiri Prochazka make a stunning debut with a devastating knockout of Vojtech Altrichter (again, not UFC, but indicative of his power) and later a Relentless KO of Dominick Reyes in 2021, showing the kind of power that was bubbling under and ready to explode in the division. Fighters like these keep the light heavyweight division exciting, and the potential for a fight-ending blow is always present, making every bout a must-watch for knockout enthusiasts.
Heavyweight Havoc: Miocic vs. Cormier III
And finally, we have the big boys in the Heavyweight division! 2020 was capped off with the epic trilogy between Stipe Miocic and Daniel Cormier. While the fight went the distance and Miocic retained his title, the anticipation and the power displayed by both heavyweights were immense. Cormier, in particular, looked sharp, but Miocic’s strategic approach secured him the win. However, looking back at heavyweight knockouts in 2020, we saw fighters like Derrick Lewis continue to be a king of knockouts. His fight against Curtis Blaydes didn't end in a KO, but Lewis always brings that one-punch power that can change a fight in an instant. His legendary status as a knockout artist is undeniable, and fans always tune in hoping for another “Black Beast” special. We also saw exciting performances from guys like Francis Ngannou, who continued his path of destruction with quick, brutal knockouts against Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Anthony Smith in early 2020. Ngannou's power is almost frightening, and his string of KOs cemented him as arguably the most feared striker in the UFC, setting up his eventual title challenge. The heavyweight division is where power truly reigns supreme, and 2020 certainly delivered moments that reminded us of that fact.
The Legacy of 2020 Knockouts
Looking back at the best UFC knockouts of 2020, it's clear that this year, despite its challenges, delivered an incredible amount of excitement and unforgettable moments. From Joaquin Buckley's viral spinning back kick to the sustained power displayed by fighters like Justin Gaethje and Francis Ngannou, the UFC’s knockout artists were on full display. These finishes weren't just about crowning a winner; they were about moments of sheer athletic brilliance, devastating displays of power, and the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts. Each knockout tells a story – a story of dedication, skill, and the relentless pursuit of victory. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, these are the moments that get your blood pumping and remind you why the UFC is the premier destination for combat sports. The legacy of 2020’s knockouts will live on in highlight reels for years to come, inspiring future fighters and thrilling fans worldwide. What were your favorite KOs from 2020? Let us know in the comments below!
