Masvidal Vs. Askren: News, Highlights, And The KO Heard Round The World

Hey fight fans! Remember that insane five-second knockout? Let's dive deep into the legendary Jorge Masvidal vs. Ben Askren fight, reliving the highlights, exploring the backstory, and checking out the news surrounding these two iconic MMA figures.

The Lead-Up to the Cage: Askren's Trash Talk vs. Masvidal's Cool Confidence

Before we get to the blazing five seconds that etched this fight into MMA history, let's rewind a bit and set the stage. Ben "Funky" Askren, known for his dominant wrestling pedigree and, shall we say, unconventional striking, had quickly established himself as a polarizing figure in the UFC. His outspoken personality and relentless trash talk made him a magnet for both fans and detractors. He had a knack for getting under people's skin, and Jorge Masvidal was no exception. Askren's pre-fight banter was relentless, often downplaying Masvidal's skills and predicting an easy victory via wrestling dominance. He relentlessly taunted Masvidal on social media and during interviews, questioning his striking ability and overall fighting prowess.

On the other side of the cage stood Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal, a seasoned veteran known for his toughness, striking skills, and no-nonsense attitude. Masvidal, a Miami native with a street-fighting background, had been grinding in the MMA world for years, building a reputation as a dangerous and unpredictable opponent. While Askren was busy running his mouth, Masvidal remained relatively calm and collected, often responding with a knowing smirk and a promise to let his fists do the talking. There was a palpable sense of animosity between the two fighters heading into the bout. Masvidal, a proud and experienced fighter, clearly took offense to Askren's dismissive remarks and perceived disrespect. This clash of personalities, combined with their contrasting fighting styles, created a highly anticipated showdown that had fans buzzing with anticipation.

The contrast in their approaches was stark. Askren reveled in the psychological warfare, using his words as weapons to gain a mental edge. Masvidal, on the other hand, preferred to let his fighting skills speak for themselves, exuding a quiet confidence that hinted at a calculated and potentially explosive response. The stage was set for a clash of styles and personalities, a battle between wrestling prowess and striking precision, and a showdown between a trash-talking newcomer and a seasoned veteran eager to prove a point. This pre-fight dynamic only served to amplify the shock and awe that would follow those unforgettable five seconds.

Five Seconds to Stun the World: The Flying Knee Heard Around the Globe

And then, BAM! The bell rang, Askren shot in for a takedown, and Masvidal launched himself into the air, delivering a perfectly timed flying knee that connected flush with Askren's head. The impact was devastating. Askren was out cold before he even hit the canvas. The fight was over in a record-breaking five seconds, the fastest knockout in UFC history at the time. Guys, the arena erupted. The collective gasp of disbelief turned into a roar of excitement as fans witnessed one of the most spectacular knockouts in MMA history. Masvidal, with his hands raised in victory, had delivered a highlight-reel moment that would be replayed for years to come.

The speed and precision of the knockout were simply breathtaking. Masvidal's timing was impeccable, anticipating Askren's predictable takedown attempt and meeting him with a perfectly placed knee. It was a move that combined athleticism, skill, and a healthy dose of calculated aggression. The knockout sent shockwaves throughout the MMA world. Experts and fans alike marveled at the sheer audacity and effectiveness of Masvidal's technique. It was a moment that transcended the sport, capturing the attention of mainstream media and turning Masvidal into an overnight sensation. The flying knee became an instant meme, with countless parodies and recreations flooding the internet. Masvidal's popularity soared, and he cemented his status as one of the most exciting and marketable fighters in the UFC. The five-second knockout was more than just a victory; it was a defining moment that catapulted Masvidal to a new level of stardom.

The Aftermath: Trash Talk, Triumphs, and Titillating Twists

The aftermath of the fight was just as captivating as the knockout itself. Masvidal's star power skyrocketed, earning him high-profile matchups and a shot at the "BMF" title against Nate Diaz. Askren, on the other hand, faced a tough road to recovery, both physically and mentally. He eventually retired from MMA due to lingering injuries and pursued other ventures.

Masvidal's victory over Askren proved to be a turning point in his career. He went on to have a series of high-profile fights, including a win over Nate Diaz for the BMF title and two title shots against then-welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. While he didn't capture the undisputed title, Masvidal remained a popular and exciting fighter, always willing to put on a show for the fans. He became known for his outspoken personality, his unapologetic attitude, and his willingness to take on any challenge. His journey from street fighter to MMA superstar is a testament to his resilience, his dedication, and his unwavering belief in himself. Even in defeat, Masvidal carried himself with a swagger and charisma that made him a fan favorite. The Askren knockout was a catalyst for his rise to prominence, and he capitalized on that momentum to become one of the biggest names in the sport.

Askren's career took a different trajectory after the loss. While he attempted to bounce back with a win over Robbie Lawler, the damage from the Masvidal knockout seemed to linger. He eventually retired from MMA, citing hip problems and a lack of motivation. However, Askren remained involved in combat sports, transitioning to professional wrestling and even participating in a boxing match against Jake Paul. His post-MMA career has been marked by a willingness to try new things and a continued presence in the public eye. While he may not have achieved the same level of success as Masvidal, Askren's impact on the sport is undeniable. His unique wrestling style, his outspoken personality, and his willingness to challenge the status quo made him a memorable and often controversial figure in the MMA world. The Masvidal fight may be a painful memory for Askren, but it's also a reminder of his willingness to take risks and compete at the highest level.

News and Updates: Where Are They Now?

So, what are Masvidal and Askren up to these days? Masvidal remains a relevant figure in the MMA world, often making headlines with his outspoken opinions and potential fight announcements. Askren has transitioned to wrestling and other ventures, keeping himself busy outside the cage.

Jorge Masvidal: As of late 2024, Jorge Masvidal is still involved in the MMA scene, although he announced his retirement from active competition after his loss to Gilbert Burns in April 2023. However, he remains a prominent figure in the sport, often appearing as a commentator or analyst for various MMA events. Masvidal has also been focusing on his business ventures, including his bare-knuckle MMA promotion, Gamebred Fighting Championship, and his Mezcal brand. He continues to be a vocal advocate for fighter pay and improved working conditions for MMA athletes. While his fighting days may be over, Masvidal's influence on the sport remains significant.

Ben Askren: Since retiring from MMA, Ben Askren has remained active in the combat sports world, albeit in different roles. He competed in a professional wrestling match for WWE in 2020 and also participated in a boxing match against Jake Paul in 2021, which he lost by TKO. Askren has also been involved in coaching wrestling and providing commentary for MMA events. He occasionally shares his thoughts and opinions on MMA through social media and podcasts. While he may not be actively competing, Askren's presence in the combat sports community remains notable.

The Masvidal vs. Askren fight will forever be etched in MMA history as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport and the explosive power of a perfectly executed strike. It was a clash of styles, personalities, and ultimately, a defining moment for both fighters involved. It’s the kind of fight we’ll be talking about for years to come!