In the moment, Joe Rogan called Max Holloway’s finish of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 “the greatest knockout of all time.” Whether or not that specific claim is true depends on your criteria for what qualifies as a great knockout, but one thing is for sure: It was completely badass and will live in UFC history forever.
Up three rounds to one on the scorecards thanks to a sterling striking performance to that point, Holloway had no reason to take any risks in the fifth round of their BMF title fight. And yet, after Gaethje whiffed on a desperation rolling thunder and the 10-second clapper went off, Holloway invited Gaethje to the center of the cage so they could stand and trade. A flurry of wild punches ensued from both men, and in an instant, Holloway put Gaethje to sleep with one punch with one second left, sending his limp body crashing to the canvas and sending 20,000-plus fans and a bunch of UFC fighters at T-Mobile Arena into a frenzy.
The incredibly violent moment produced some iconic images from cageside photographers, including MMA Junkie contributor Per Haljestam, Mark J. Rebilas of USA TODAY Sports, and Carmen Mandato of Getty Images.
You can see a collection of them below.
9 incredible photos of Max Holloway’s all-time badass knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300
