Masvidal Vs. Askren: The Legendary Flying Knee KO
Alright, guys, let's talk about one of the most insane, jaw-dropping moments in UFC history – the Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren fight. This wasn't just a fight; it was a cultural phenomenon, a highlight reel on repeat, and a moment that forever etched both names into the annals of mixed martial arts. When we talk about a legendary flying knee KO, this is the one that immediately springs to mind. It's a fight that had everything: a heated rivalry, massive stakes, and an outcome so swift and brutal it almost felt surreal. For anyone who witnessed it live, or even caught the replays later, it's impossible to forget the sheer speed and precision of Jorge Masvidal's strike that night. It wasn't just a knockout; it was a statement, a changing of the guard, and a moment that launched Masvidal into superstardom while simultaneously delivering a shocking blow to Askren's undefeated record and reputation. We're going to dive deep into every aspect of this iconic clash, from the bitter buildup to the unforgettable moment itself, and the lasting impact it had on both fighters' careers and the sport as a whole. Get ready to relive the legend, because this is one for the history books, folks. It's truly a masterclass in how quickly fortunes can change in the high-stakes world of the UFC, and it continues to be a benchmark for spectacular finishes. This fight delivered on all fronts, captivating fans globally and proving why MMA is often called the most unpredictable sport.
The Buildup: Bad Blood Before the Bell
Before the flying knee knockout became an instant classic, there was a palpable tension brewing between Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren. This wasn't just another matchup; it was a clash of styles, personalities, and philosophies that created an incredible amount of bad blood leading up to UFC 239. On one side, you had Ben Askren, "Funky" Ben, the undefeated grappling phenom with an Olympic wrestling background and an unblemished professional record of 19-0 (1 NC). Askren was known for his relentless pressure, smothering top control, and incredibly unconventional, yet highly effective, wrestling-heavy style. He'd come into the UFC amidst massive hype, having dominated in Bellator and ONE Championship. His debut against Robbie Lawler, though controversial, solidified his presence, and he wasn't shy about talking smack. Askren's confidence, some might say arrogance, was a huge part of his persona. He believed his grappling was superior to anyone's striking, and he wasn't afraid to let the world know it. He saw himself as the solution to every striker's puzzle, a true anomaly in a sport increasingly focused on stand-up exchanges. He essentially walked around with a target on his back, daring anyone to challenge his perfect record.
Then, you had Jorge Masvidal, "Gamebred," a veteran of over 40 professional fights, a street fighter from Miami who had seemingly found a new gear in his career. Prior to the Askren fight, Masvidal had just delivered a brutal knockout of Darren Till in London, signaling a dangerous resurgence. Masvidal's style was all about calculated violence, crisp boxing, and a "baptize" mentality. He was known for his durability and technical striking, but something had shifted. He was more outspoken, more aggressive, and seemingly more confident than ever before. He wasn't just fighting to win; he was fighting to make a statement, to hurt his opponents. Masvidal, with his rugged charm and "three pieces and a soda" attitude, was the perfect foil to Askren's collegiate wrestler persona. He absolutely hated Askren's trash talk, his perceived disrespect, and his confidence. Masvidal famously stated he wanted to "baptize" Askren, to give him a brutal beatdown for all his talk. The stakes were incredibly high, with both fighters looking to solidify their contention for a title shot. Askren aimed to prove his undefeated record was no fluke and that his grappling could nullify any striker, while Masvidal wanted to shut down the hype train and show that there are levels to this game, especially when you face a true "Gamebred" fighter. The animosity was palpable, the press conferences were gold, and everyone knew that when these two stepped into the octagon, something spectacular was bound to happen. The rivalry wasn't manufactured; it was genuine, raw, and promised an explosive encounter. Fans were absolutely buzzing, eagerly anticipating this collision of contrasting styles and fiery personalities. The pre-fight narrative was a masterclass in building anticipation, setting the stage for what would become an unforgettable moment in combat sports history. The intensity of their verbal exchanges only amplified the drama, creating a pressure cooker environment where a sudden, decisive finish felt almost inevitable. This wasn't just a fight; it was a story waiting for its most shocking chapter.
The Fastest KO in UFC History: A Moment Frozen in Time
And then, it happened. The octagon door closed, the referee gave his final instructions, and the bell rang to start the first round. What transpired next would forever be etched into the minds of fight fans, becoming the definitive answer to the question: what is the fastest knockout in UFC history? At just five seconds into the fight, Jorge Masvidal unleashed a perfectly timed, absolutely devastating flying knee knockout that sent Ben Askren crashing to the canvas unconscious. The sequence was breathtakingly quick and astonishingly precise. As Askren, true to his grappling instincts, shot for a takedown almost immediately off the opening bell, Masvidal anticipated it with uncanny accuracy. Instead of attempting to sprawl or defend conventionally, Masvidal launched himself forward, connecting his knee directly to Askren's head. The impact was immediate and brutal. Askren went stiff and fell backward, completely unconscious, hitting the canvas with a thud. For a brief, terrifying moment, the entire arena went silent, trying to process what they had just witnessed. It was a sight that left everyone in awe, disbelief, and a touch of concern. The force was so immense that many, including commentators, initially thought the strike might have landed on Askren's lung or neck, highlighting the sheer power involved.
But Masvidal wasn't done. True to his promise and his "street Jesus" persona, he followed up with two brutal, uncontested hammerfists to the already unconscious Askren before the referee, Jason Herzog, could dive in and stop the fight. Some criticized the follow-up shots, but Masvidal defended them vehemently, stating that he wanted to send a clear message and that in the heat of the moment, until the referee steps in, the fight is still on. This lightning-fast finish didn't just win Masvidal the fight; it shattered the existing UFC record for the quickest knockout, previously held by Duane Ludwig. It was an iconic moment that not only became an instant highlight reel staple but also catapulted Masvidal into unprecedented levels of superstardom. The sheer audacity of the move, combined with its flawless execution, made it an unforgettable spectacle. Fans replayed it endlessly, dissecting every frame of the five-second encounter. The moment was so sudden and definitive that it transcended the typical fight commentary; it became a visceral experience for everyone watching. Askren, who had never truly been knocked out before, was completely blindsided, his undefeated record shattered in a blink. The fight was less a contest and more a moment of pure, unadulterated shock and awe, forever cementing its place in combat sports lore. The image of Askren falling backward, stiff as a board, is one that will be referenced for decades to come, a testament to Masvidal's incredible athleticism and fight IQ. It was a fight where one man's career trajectory soared to new heights, while the other faced an undeniable, immediate, and impactful setback. The echoes of that knee continue to reverberate, serving as a reminder of the sport's unpredictable and often brutal beauty. This single moment redefined both men's careers and remains a pinnacle of highlight-reel finishes.
Masvidal's Perspective: "Three Pieces and a Soda"
For Jorge Masvidal, the flying knee knockout of Ben Askren was more than just a win; it was a career-defining moment that perfectly encapsulated his "Gamebred" persona and launched him into superstardom. Masvidal's perspective on the fight, and particularly the controversial follow-up shots, was unapologetically raw and incredibly authentic, resonating deeply with a segment of the fight game fanbase. His now-famous line, "three pieces and a soda," became a catchphrase, a shorthand for the comprehensive beatdown he delivered. He explained that the initial knee was one "piece," and the subsequent hammerfists were the other "two pieces," with the "soda" being the overall humiliation and definitive end to Askren's hype train. Masvidal felt that Askren had been overtly disrespectful in the buildup, constantly talking trash and underestimating his striking prowess. For Masvidal, this wasn't just sport; it was personal. He came from a street fighting background, where respect is earned, and disrespect is often met with swift, decisive action. Therefore, in his mind, the follow-up shots were not just permissible but necessary to teach Askren a lesson. He maintained that until the referee officially stops the fight, a fighter must continue, especially when an opponent has talked so much smack. This unapologetic stance further solidified his reputation as a no-nonsense, hard-hitting brawler who walks the talk.
The win itself was a massive turning point for Masvidal. He was already on a good run, but this UFC record-breaking knockout instantly made him one of the most talked-about fighters in the world. He suddenly became a mainstream star, appealing to both hardcore MMA fans and casual viewers alike. His newfound popularity led directly to the creation of the BMF title (Baddest Motherf***er), a championship forged specifically for his fight against Nate Diaz at UFC 244 in Madison Square Garden. This BMF belt, though not a traditional UFC title, perfectly suited Masvidal's brand and elevated his status even further, proving that charisma and spectacular finishes could, at times, be just as valuable as a linear championship. Masvidal fully embraced his role as the "street Jesus," a fighter who brought violence and authenticity to the octagon. He became a pay-per-view draw, a fan favorite whose interviews were as entertaining as his fights. The Askren KO wasn't just a highlight; it was the catalyst for an incredible run that saw Masvidal challenge for the undisputed UFC welterweight title twice against Kamaru Usman. From Masvidal's viewpoint, the Askren fight was the moment he silenced his critics, proved his elite status, and finally got the recognition he believed he deserved. It was the moment he became the guy everyone wanted to watch, the embodiment of a fighter who could turn the tide of his career with one perfectly executed, brutal move. His post-fight demeanor, a mix of satisfaction and defiance, only added to the legend, making it clear that for Jorge Masvidal, this was a statement heard around the world. He cemented his place as a true showman and a legitimate threat, ready to take on anyone, anywhere, with his unique blend of skill and swagger. It was the epitome of a breakout performance, setting the stage for his subsequent rise to global prominence in the brutal, beautiful world of combat sports.
Askren's Aftermath: What Happened to "Funky"?
For Ben Askren, the flying knee knockout delivered by Jorge Masvidal was a devastating blow that profoundly impacted his career trajectory and forced a reevaluation of his place in the elite ranks of the UFC. Prior to this fight, Askren was an undefeated, dominant force, a wrestling prodigy who had successfully transitioned to MMA and conquered multiple promotions. His arrival in the UFC was met with immense fanfare, fueled by his undefeated record and his confident, often provocative, trash talk. The loss to Masvidal, however, was not just a defeat; it was an incredibly public, brutal, and swift knockout that shattered his perfect record in a mere five seconds. This sudden, shocking end to his unbeaten streak left many wondering what would happen to "Funky" Ben next. The immediate aftermath was difficult. Askren, known for his relentless self-belief, had to confront the reality of being on the wrong end of one of the most iconic knockouts in UFC history. It raised questions about his striking defense, his eagerness to shoot for takedowns, and whether his wrestling-heavy style could truly hold up against the top-tier strikers in the UFC welterweight division. The defeat was a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the sport, where one mistake can lead to an instant, irreversible outcome.
Despite the setback, Askren, ever the competitor, chose to fight on. His next bout was against Demian Maia, a legendary jiu-jitsu practitioner, known for his own grappling prowess. This fight, while stylistically different from the Masvidal encounter, was another crucial test for Askren. He ultimately lost to Maia via submission in the third round, marking his second consecutive defeat. These back-to-back losses, particularly the emphatic nature of the Masvidal KO, heavily influenced his decision to retire from mixed martial arts. Askren officially announced his retirement from the sport shortly after the Maia fight, citing persistent hip injuries that required surgery, as well as the clear understanding that his body was no longer able to compete at the highest level. The Ben Askren's career trajectory had taken an abrupt turn. While his grappling legacy remains undeniable, his brief stint in the UFC, bookended by a controversial debut win and two definitive losses, left some questions about his overall striking capabilities and his ability to adapt to the diverse skill sets of the UFC's welterweight elite. His retirement, though tinged with the disappointment of not achieving UFC gold, allowed him to prioritize his health and spend more time with his family. However, the image of him falling stiff after Jorge Masvidal's flying knee will forever be a defining moment of his professional career, a stark contrast to the dominant, undefeated run he had enjoyed for so many years prior. It’s a harsh truth of the fight game: even the most dominant can fall, and sometimes, it only takes five seconds to change everything. His post-UFC career has seen him dabble in other ventures, including a professional boxing match, but his MMA journey is undeniably linked to that legendary knockout. He remains a beloved, albeit polarizing, figure, often reflecting on his career with a mix of pride for his accomplishments and humor about his infamous UFC moments. He embraced the memes, showing a resilient spirit despite the painful end to his perfect record.
The Enduring Legacy: More Than Just a Knockout
Beyond the immediate shock and the individual career impacts, the Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren fight, and specifically that legendary flying knee knockout, has left an enduring legacy that transcends a simple highlight reel. It's more than just a quick finish; it's a cultural touchstone within the world of combat sports, a moment that encapsulates the unpredictable, brutal, and utterly thrilling nature of the UFC. This fight is consistently brought up in discussions about the greatest knockouts of all time, the fastest finishes, and the most dramatic shifts in a fighter's trajectory. Its iconic status isn't just about the speed; it's about the narrative, the personalities, and the sheer audacity of the move. The image of Masvidal launching himself and connecting with such precision is ingrained in the collective memory of fight fans, becoming a visual shorthand for a truly spectacular and definitive end to a contest. It perfectly demonstrated that in MMA, a single, well-executed technique can alter the course of an entire career and send shockwaves throughout the sport. The flying knee became Masvidal's signature, a move that solidified his reputation as a dangerous and unpredictable striker, a true "Gamebred" warrior who could pull a rabbit out of a hat at any given moment. It defined his peak run and contributed significantly to his rise as a genuine superstar, proving that sometimes, one unforgettable moment can be worth more than a string of decision victories.
Moreover, the fight's impact extends into the realm of memes and popular culture. The image of Askren unconscious on the canvas, often paired with Masvidal's triumphant pose, became a widely shared meme, further cementing its place in the broader consciousness beyond just hardcore fight fans. This kind of resonance is rare and signifies that the moment transcended sport, becoming a piece of shared digital history. It serves as a constant reminder of the fine margins in professional fighting, where years of training and an undefeated record can be undone in a literal blink of an eye. The UFC history books will forever mark this fight not only for its record-breaking speed but also for the profound statements it made about both fighters. For Askren, it was a harsh lesson, but one he faced with humility and good humor in the long run. For Masvidal, it was the moment he went from a respected veteran to an absolute phenomenon, chasing the BMF title and challenging for the undisputed belt. It reinforced the idea that sometimes, the most dramatic stories in sports unfold in mere seconds. This single, explosive moment continues to fuel debates, inspire highlight reels, and serve as a benchmark for what a truly spectacular knockout can be. It's a testament to the fact that in mixed martial arts, the unexpected is always just around the corner, and sometimes, that unexpected moment becomes an iconic legend for generations to come. The Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren flying knee KO is, without a doubt, one of those legendary, unforgettable chapters in the rich tapestry of fighting. It was a perfect storm of buildup, execution, and aftermath, solidifying its place as one of the most talked-about and replayed moments in the entire history of the sport, truly a cornerstone of modern MMA lore. It showcased the ultimate risk and reward, where one bold move can lead to either unparalleled glory or devastating defeat, making it a timeless spectacle of human competition at its most extreme and exhilarating. It continues to be a go-to example when discussing the unpredictability and sheer excitement that makes MMA so captivating for millions worldwide, proving that some moments are simply too grand to fade into obscurity.
