Ilia Topuria‘s knockout victory over Max Holloway will undoubtedly go down as one of the most shocking moments in recent MMA history. The Georgian-Spaniard backed up his bold words with an unforgettable performance, knocking Holloway out cold. Among those who celebrated the moment was former UFC lightweight contender Dustin Poirier, who couldn’t hide his excitement.
The year 2024 was a landmark one for the UFC, featuring wildly successful pay-per-view events and unforgettable MMA action. It delivered a series of jaw-dropping knockouts, each worthy of recognition. As awards season approaches, Dustin Poirier has made his pick for the best knockout of the year. He named Topuria’s stunning finish against Holloway as the standout moment.
I think it’s gotta be Topuria knocking out Max…Topuria was the first man to put him on his ass and knock him out. That was super impressive for me.
Dustin Poirier via Good Guy / Bad Guy
Other than this, some of the other nominees on the list include Alex Pereira‘s two knockouts against Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka. Holloway himself has a nominee with his iconic knockout against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300. Carlos Prates, Shi Ming, Shara Magomedov are other notables on the list.
👊🤝Dustin Poirier believes Ilia Topuria’s KO against Max Holloway is the Knockout of the Year:
“I think it’s gotta be Topuria knocking out Max…Topuria was the first man to put him on his ass and knock him out. That was super impressive for me”
🎥@espnmma 🔹 pic.twitter.com/H7ISZD982N
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 18, 2024
However, as Dustin Poirier explained, among this list, Topuria’s knockout against Holloway holds much more significance. The ‘Blessed’ had the reputation of having one of the best chins in UFC history. Regardless, Topuria decided to change that by ending the fight via KO.
Max Holloway gives Ilia Topuria his credit for the UFC 308 knockout
Max Holloway has proven himself as a legend of the sport and defeated some big names such as Jose Aldo, Frankie Edgar, Calvin Kattar, etc. The former featherweight champion was eager to get hands on the title for the second time. Going into UFC 308, Holloway had great momentum with him, however, it wasn’t enough.
Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at UFC 308 (via X)In the early rounds, the Hawaiian managed to stay toe to toe with Ilia Topuria, but the champion found a way to break through. After the loss, Holloway had no complaints and shared his experience with honesty.
I felt great. I was fighting my groove. He land couple right hooks…took me down, he didn’t feel too strong…I was doing great until I wasn’t…Game of inches, man.
Max Holloway via UFC 308 post-fight presser
The win shut down a lot of haters who doubted Topuria’s capabilities. Now, Holloway has decided to leave the featherweight division and try his luck at the 155lbs division. It would be interesting to see how much success he finds in one of the most competitive weight classes in UFC history.
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