Best MMA Knockouts Of 2023
In combat sports, few moments rival the intense impact of a brutal knockout. The year 2023 in the UFC has witnessed an abundance of such thrilling moments, from decisive finishing blows to knockouts altering fighters’ trajectories. Sean O’Malley recently claimed the spotlight with a breathtaking second-round TKO against the former UFC bantamweight champion, Aljamain Sterling. Notable instances include Robbie Lawler’s final, exhilarating knockout before retirement, marking the most impressive knockouts of the year. There are more exciting fixtures lined up for 2024 where MMA betting fans can look out for on the Betway platform, but first things first, here, we highlight the top 10 MMA knockouts of 2023.
Lorenz Larkin vs Mukhamed Berkhamov
Bellator 290 saw Larkin execute a devastating standing elbow that rendered Berkhamov unconscious on the mat. Larkin showcased dominance throughout the fight, displaying precise striking and patiently waiting for the opportune moment. Seizing the opening, Larkin delivered a powerful elbow to the side of Berkhamov’s head, causing him to go limp in the first round.
Robbie Lawler vs Niko Price
In a swift and spectacular performance, the former welterweight champion needed only 38 seconds to defeat Niko Price with a relentless flurry of punches, reminiscent of many of his iconic victories. A series of potent left hooks was highlighted by a left uppercut that sent Price collapsing to the mat, eliciting excitement from the UFC 290 crowd.
Patchy Mix vs Raufeon Stots
At Bellator 295, Patchy Mix showcased dominance by dismantling interim Bellator bantamweight champion Raufeon Stots, securing both the belt and victory in the bantamweight grand prix. During the opening round, Mix delivered a devastating standing knee that flattened his opponent, solidifying his championship claim.
Brandon Royval vs Matheus Nicolau
Royals victory at UFC 283 unfolded with a decisive moment. After sizing each other up, Royval inflicted significant damage on Nicolau with a devastating knee up the middle. Capitalizing on the vulnerability, Royval launched a relentless assault of elbows and punches, leading the referee to intervene.
Johnny Walker vs Paul Craig
Johnny Walker’s triumph at UFC 283 showcased both knockout power and creative prowess. In a unique sequence, Walker delivered a powerful right hook while defending a takedown attempt, leaving his Scottish opponent unsteady. Despite persistent takedown efforts, Walker responded with a merciless barrage of hammer fists, securing the win. Walker will face Magomed Ankalaev in January 13 in a bout that will be available for betting on Betway.
Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski II
In the highly anticipated UFC 294 rematch for the Lightweight Championship, Makhachev strategically used leg kicks to set up a powerful shot that brought Volkanovski to the canvas. Despite a defensive arm position, Islam Makhachev found a way to connect with a devastating strike on the top of Volkanovski’s head.
Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje II
At UFC 291, the dynamics shifted in the second round following a competitive first round. Gaethje initiated with a leg kick and attempted a blocked right hand, leading to a successful execution of a precision head kick. The impact rendered Poirier unconscious, resulting in a decisive knockout.
Ismael Bonfim vs Terrence McKenney
Making his debut at UFC 283, Bonfim stunned the audience with an extraordinary flying knee in the second round, securing a knockout victory over Terrance McKinney.
Josh Emmett vs Bryce Mitchell
Mitchell, who took the fight as the favorite on short notice at UFC 296, experienced an unexpected twist of fate. In under two minutes, Emmett delivered a powerful right hand that raised concerns about Mitchell’s well-being among onlookers.
Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya II
In a surprising turn, Israel Adesanya achieved the most impactful knockout of the year against Pereira. Despite three previous losses to Pereira – twice in kickboxing and once in MMA, Adesanya reversed the narrative with a stunning highlight-reel finish in the second round. He responded to Pereira with two perfectly placed right hands, leaving Pereira flat on his back. There are several MMA fights slated for 2024, with plenty of betting markets on the Betway app.
