Masvidal Vs. Askren: The Story Behind The 5-Second KO

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most iconic moments in UFC history: the lightning-fast knockout of Ben Askren by Jorge Masvidal. This wasn't just a fight; it was a clash of styles, personalities, and a whole lot of bad blood. Buckle up, because we're about to break down everything that led to that unforgettable five-second finish.

The Buildup: Trash Talk and Contrasting Styles

Before we get to the actual five seconds of fury, it's essential to understand the context. The animosity between Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren was palpable, fueled by trash talk and their fundamentally different approaches to fighting.

Jorge Masvidal, a seasoned veteran known for his striking prowess and street-fighting background, had been around the block. He was respected for his toughness and willingness to take on anyone. Masvidal's fighting style was characterized by his explosive striking, particularly his powerful hands and diverse stand-up techniques. He had a knack for delivering highlight-reel knockouts, and fans loved him for his no-nonsense attitude. His journey to the top was filled with ups and downs, making him a relatable and respected figure in the MMA community. Masvidal had earned his stripes through years of hard work and perseverance, and he wasn't one to back down from a challenge. His confidence in his striking abilities was unwavering, and he relished the opportunity to test his skills against opponents who dared to stand and trade with him.

Ben Askren, on the other hand, was a world-class wrestler with an undefeated record in MMA. His strategy revolved around grappling, takedowns, and suffocating his opponents on the ground. Askren's wrestling credentials were impeccable, having represented the United States at the Olympics. He was known for his relentless pursuit of takedowns and his ability to control opponents once he got them to the mat. While Askren's wrestling skills were undeniable, his striking was often criticized as being rudimentary. This created a stark contrast with Masvidal's striking expertise, setting the stage for an intriguing clash of styles. Askren's confidence in his wrestling abilities was unwavering, and he believed that he could neutralize any opponent's striking by taking them down and controlling them on the ground. This clash of styles was a major selling point for the fight, as fans were eager to see whether Masvidal's striking could overcome Askren's wrestling, or vice versa.

The verbal sparring between Masvidal and Askren was intense in the lead-up to the fight. Askren, never one to shy away from a war of words, frequently mocked Masvidal's fighting abilities and questioned his status as an elite fighter. He made bold predictions about how he would dominate Masvidal, promising to take him down and submit him with ease. Masvidal, in turn, fired back with insults of his own, questioning Askren's striking skills and vowing to knock him out. He promised to make Askren pay for his disrespect and prove that he was the superior fighter. The animosity between the two fighters was palpable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already highly anticipated bout. Their exchanges on social media and in interviews generated significant buzz, further amplifying the anticipation for the fight. Fans were drawn into the rivalry, eager to see which fighter would back up their words inside the Octagon. The trash talk served to heighten the stakes and create a sense of personal investment in the outcome of the fight. This all contributed to the electric atmosphere surrounding the event, making it one of the most memorable in recent UFC history.

The Fight: Five Seconds of Fury

The fight took place at UFC 239 on July 6, 2019. As soon as the bell rang, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a flying knee that connected perfectly with Askren's head. Askren was knocked out instantly, and the fight was stopped after just five seconds. It was the fastest knockout in UFC history at the time, and it immediately went viral.

The flying knee was a calculated risk on Masvidal's part. He knew that Askren would likely be expecting him to come forward and engage in a traditional striking exchange. By launching a surprise flying knee, Masvidal hoped to catch Askren off guard and end the fight quickly. The execution of the flying knee was flawless, as Masvidal timed his jump perfectly and landed the knee with pinpoint accuracy. The impact of the knee was devastating, rendering Askren unconscious before he even hit the ground. The speed and precision of the knockout left fans in awe, cementing Masvidal's status as a dangerous and unpredictable striker. The five-second finish was a testament to Masvidal's skill and athleticism, as well as his ability to capitalize on opportunities when they presented themselves. It was a defining moment in his career, elevating him to a new level of stardom and solidifying his place among the UFC's elite fighters. The knockout was so spectacular that it was replayed countless times on sports networks and social media, further amplifying its impact and reach. It became an instant classic, etched into the memories of MMA fans around the world.

The Aftermath: Reactions and Legacy

The aftermath of the fight was filled with shock and awe. Masvidal's stock rose dramatically, and he became one of the UFC's biggest stars. Askren, on the other hand, suffered his first professional loss and never quite recovered. The knockout became an instant meme, and Masvidal's flying knee was immortalized in highlight reels for years to come.

Jorge Masvidal capitalized on the momentum from the Askren victory, going on to have a stellar run in the UFC. He fought for the BMF title against Nate Diaz, winning the bout via TKO due to doctor stoppage. Masvidal's popularity soared to new heights, and he became a mainstay in the UFC's welterweight division. He continued to deliver exciting performances, showcasing his striking skills and toughness in every fight. Masvidal's journey to the top was a testament to his resilience and determination, as he overcame numerous obstacles and setbacks to achieve his goals. His success served as an inspiration to aspiring fighters, proving that hard work and perseverance can pay off in the end. Masvidal's impact on the UFC extended beyond his fighting abilities, as he also became a role model and mentor to younger fighters. He shared his knowledge and experience with others, helping them to develop their skills and navigate the challenges of the sport. Masvidal's contributions to the UFC have left an indelible mark on the organization, and he will be remembered as one of its most iconic and influential figures.

Ben Askren, on the other hand, faced a difficult road after the loss to Masvidal. He fought Demian Maia in his next bout, losing via submission. Askren's confidence appeared to be shaken, and he struggled to regain the form that had made him such a dominant wrestler. He eventually retired from MMA, citing health issues and a lack of motivation. Askren's career serves as a reminder of the cruelty and unpredictability of the sport. Despite his wrestling credentials and undefeated record, he was unable to overcome the challenges posed by Masvidal's striking. Askren's legacy is one of both success and disappointment, as he achieved great heights in wrestling but ultimately fell short of his goals in MMA. His story highlights the importance of adapting to different fighting styles and developing a well-rounded skill set in order to succeed in the sport.

The legacy of the Masvidal-Askren fight extends beyond the individual careers of the two fighters. It serves as a reminder of the importance of striking in MMA, even against highly skilled wrestlers. It also demonstrates the impact that a single moment can have on a fighter's career and the sport as a whole. The flying knee knockout remains one of the most iconic moments in UFC history, and it will be remembered for years to come. It is a testament to the skill, athleticism, and unpredictability of MMA, and it serves as a reminder of why fans are drawn to the sport. The Masvidal-Askren fight will forever be etched in the annals of UFC history, serving as a symbol of the excitement and drama that make MMA such a captivating spectacle.

Conclusion

The Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren fight was more than just a quick knockout. It was a clash of styles, personalities, and a culmination of weeks of intense trash talk. Masvidal's spectacular flying knee not only secured him a victory but also cemented his place in UFC history. It's a fight that fans will be talking about for years to come, a true testament to the unpredictable and exciting nature of MMA. Who knows what other crazy moments the future holds? Keep watching, fight fans!