Jorge Masvidal Vs Ben Askren: The Story Behind The Rivalry

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into one of the most talked-about rivalries in UFC history: Jorge Masvidal versus Ben Askren. This clash wasn't just a fight; it was a full-blown spectacle filled with trash talk, controversial opinions, and one of the most iconic knockouts the sport has ever seen. So, buckle up as we explore all the juicy details of the Masvidal-Askren saga!

The Buildup: Trash Talk and Bad Blood

Before these two even stepped into the Octagon, the animosity was palpable. Jorge Masvidal, a seasoned veteran known for his street fighting background and no-nonsense attitude, and Ben Askren, a former Olympic wrestler with an undefeated record and a penchant for brash self-promotion, were like oil and water from the get-go. The tension started simmering long before the fight was officially announced, primarily through social media jabs and interviews.

Askren, never one to shy away from a war of words, frequently took to Twitter to criticize Masvidal's fighting style, calling him a journeyman and downplaying his accomplishments. He labeled Masvidal as “Street Judas” and questioned his skills, suggesting that Masvidal had been dodging top-tier competition throughout his career. These comments were, of course, designed to get under Masvidal's skin, and they worked like a charm. Masvidal, known for his cool demeanor, began to fire back with equal intensity. He questioned Askren's wrestling credentials in MMA and mocked his striking ability, setting the stage for a deeply personal and highly anticipated showdown.

The promotional material leading up to the fight was electric. Both fighters engaged in heated exchanges during press conferences and interviews, making it clear that this wasn't just another fight on the card; it was a grudge match. Masvidal, in particular, seemed motivated by a genuine dislike for Askren, promising to deliver a beating that Askren would never forget. The trash talk escalated to the point where many fans felt a genuine sense of danger and excitement surrounding the fight. It was a classic case of two contrasting personalities colliding, each with a burning desire to shut the other up.

The Fight: A Record-Breaking Knockout

And then came the fight itself – July 6, 2019, at UFC 239. The atmosphere at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas was electric, with fans eager to see if Askren could back up his boasts or if Masvidal would deliver on his promise of a brutal knockout. What happened next shocked everyone. As the bell rang to start the fight, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a flying knee straight at Askren's head. The knee connected perfectly, instantly knocking Askren unconscious. The fight was over in just five seconds, setting a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history.

The impact was so devastating that Askren remained motionless for several moments, prompting immediate concern from the referee and medical staff. Masvidal, meanwhile, stood over his fallen opponent, soaking in the roar of the crowd and basking in the glory of his spectacular victory. The knockout was replayed countless times from every conceivable angle, solidifying its place in UFC lore. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement. Masvidal had silenced Askren in the most emphatic way possible, proving that he was more than just a journeyman.

The speed and precision of the knockout were astonishing. Few expected Masvidal to attempt such a risky maneuver right at the start of the fight, and even fewer believed that it would be successful. But Masvidal's calculated aggression paid off, turning what was expected to be a competitive wrestling match into a highlight-reel knockout that would be remembered for years to come. The fight instantly became a viral sensation, with clips of the knockout circulating across social media and mainstream sports networks. Masvidal's stock skyrocketed overnight, transforming him from a respected veteran into a bonafide superstar.

The Aftermath: Reactions and Reflections

The fallout from the fight was immense. Askren, who had previously been so confident, was left to grapple with his first professional loss. The defeat was a humbling experience for the wrestler, who had built his career on an aura of invincibility. In the days and weeks following the fight, Askren remained relatively quiet, acknowledging the loss and vowing to learn from his mistakes. However, the knockout undoubtedly had a lasting impact on his career, and he never quite regained the same level of confidence or success.

Masvidal, on the other hand, was riding high. The victory catapulted him into the upper echelons of the welterweight division, earning him a shot at the BMF title against Nate Diaz later that year. The flying knee knockout became his signature move, and he embraced his newfound status as a fan favorite. Masvidal's career trajectory changed dramatically after the Askren fight, and he went on to become one of the biggest draws in the UFC. He leveraged his popularity to secure lucrative fight opportunities and endorsement deals, solidifying his place as a true superstar.

In the years since the fight, both Masvidal and Askren have reflected on their rivalry and the events that transpired. While the animosity between them has cooled somewhat, there remains a sense of unresolved tension. Masvidal has maintained that his knockout of Askren was justified, given Askren's disrespectful trash talk. Askren, for his part, has acknowledged the brilliance of Masvidal's technique but has also hinted that he would have fared differently if given a rematch. However, a rematch never materialized, and both fighters have since moved on to different chapters in their careers.

The Legacy: An Unforgettable Moment in UFC History

The Masvidal-Askren fight will forever be etched in the annals of UFC history. It wasn't just a fight; it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the attention of sports fans around the world. The combination of intense trash talk, contrasting fighting styles, and a record-breaking knockout made it an unforgettable moment in the sport's evolution. The fight highlighted the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a single strike can change everything in an instant. It also showcased the power of personality and promotion in building rivalries and generating fan interest. The Masvidal-Askren saga serves as a reminder that, in the world of combat sports, anything can happen when two determined fighters step into the Octagon.

So, there you have it! The complete rundown of the Jorge Masvidal versus Ben Askren feud. It was more than just a fight; it was a clash of personalities, styles, and egos that culminated in one of the most spectacular knockouts the UFC has ever witnessed. Whether you're a die-hard MMA fan or just a casual observer, the Masvidal-Askren rivalry is a story worth knowing.