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The UFC has witnessed several unforgettable knockouts, but Jorge Masvidal’s stunning victory over Ben Askren in 2019 remains one of the most iconic moments in mixed martial arts history. At UFC 239, Masvidal delivered a perfectly timed flying knee to knock out Askren in just five seconds, leaving fans around the world stunned. The remarkable finish ended Askren’s unbeaten professional MMA record and became a defining moment in Masvidal’s career.
Jorge Masvidal vs Ben Askren: What Happened at UFC 239?
Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren faced each other on July 6, 2019, at UFC 239 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The welterweight contest attracted significant attention because of the fighters’ contrasting styles and the rivalry leading up to the bout.
Askren entered the fight with an undefeated professional MMA record of 19 wins and no losses. Known for his exceptional wrestling and grappling abilities, he was expected to use his takedowns to control Masvidal. However, Masvidal had a different strategy, and his explosive opening attack changed the outcome in seconds.
Five-Second Flying Knee: How Masvidal Knocked Out Askren
As soon as the fight began, Masvidal rushed forward and launched a flying knee at Askren. The strike landed cleanly, sending Askren to the canvas before he could recover. Masvidal followed up with additional strikes, forcing the referee to stop the contest.
The official time was just five seconds, making it the fastest knockout in UFC history at the time. The incredible finish quickly became one of the most talked-about moments in the promotion’s history.
Masvidal’s aggressive opening strategy proved decisive. Rather than allowing Askren to initiate a wrestling exchange, he capitalised on the opening moments to deliver a fight-ending strike.
Ben Askren’s Undefeated MMA Record Ends in a Shocking KO
Before UFC 239, Askren had established himself as a formidable MMA competitor with 19 consecutive professional victories. His wrestling background and success in other promotions had made him a respected name in the sport.
However, his defeat against Masvidal marked the first loss of his professional MMA career. Askren returned to the Octagon in October 2019 to face Demian Maia but lost via submission.
In November 2019, Askren announced his retirement from MMA. His brief UFC career remains closely associated with the five-second knockout that ended his unbeaten record.
What Happened to Jorge Masvidal After the Historic Knockout?
The victory over Askren significantly increased Masvidal’s popularity and helped establish him as one of the UFC’s biggest stars in 2019.
In November of the same year, Masvidal faced Nate Diaz at UFC 244 in a highly anticipated fight for the symbolic BMF (Baddest Motherf****r) title. Masvidal delivered an impressive performance, and the contest was stopped after the third round on the ringside doctor’s advice because of a cut sustained by Diaz.
Masvidal was declared the winner by technical knockout and awarded the BMF title. The victory further strengthened his reputation as one of the most recognisable fighters in the UFC.
Jorge Masvidal vs Ben Askren: MMA Career Records Compared
Both fighters enjoyed successful professional MMA careers, but their fighting styles and achievements were different.
Jorge Masvidal
- Professional MMA record: 35 wins and 17 losses
- Known for: Striking, knockout power and counterattacking
- Most memorable UFC moment: Five-second knockout of Ben Askren
- Major achievement in 2019: BMF title victory over Nate Diaz
Ben Askren
- Professional MMA record: 19 wins and 2 losses
- Known for: Wrestling, grappling and ground control
- Career highlight: An unbeaten professional record before facing Masvidal
- Final professional MMA record: 19 wins and 2 losses
Their UFC 239 encounter remains a striking example of how quickly a fight can end when timing, precision and strategy come together.
Why Masvidal’s Five-Second Knockout Remains an Iconic UFC Moment
Jorge Masvidal’s flying knee against Ben Askren remains one of the most memorable finishes in UFC history. The knockout demonstrated the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts, where a single strike can change a fighter’s career in an instant.
For Masvidal, the victory brought worldwide attention and helped elevate his status in the sport. For Askren, it ended an unbeaten professional record in dramatic fashion.
The five-second finish at UFC 239 continues to capture the attention of MMA fans, proving why the UFC remains one of the most unpredictable and exciting combat sports in the world.
Also Read: How to Become a UFC Fighter: 3 Ways to Get a UFC Deal
