Seven Years On: Masvidal's Five-Second Flying Knee KO of Askren Remembered

Seven years ago this week, Jorge Masvidal delivered one of the most stunning moments in combat sports history, stopping Ben Askren with a flying knee just five seconds into their welterweight clash at UFC 239 — a finish that still stands as the fastest in UFC history.

Masvidal, known as "Gamebred," entered that bout already established as a seasoned veteran of the welterweight division. Now 41 and carrying a professional record of 35-17-0, the American Top Team product has built his reputation on sharp, high-volume striking, averaging 4.05 significant strikes landed per minute at a 47 percent accuracy rate. Standing five-foot-eleven with a 74-inch reach, Masvidal had the athleticism and instincts to attempt something as bold as a running flying knee the moment the cage door closed.

Askren, also 41 today and fighting out of Roufusport, brought a contrasting profile into that matchup. The 19-2-0 wrestler and former ONE and Bellator champion was renowned for his elite takedown ability, averaging 4.33 takedowns per 15 minutes throughout his career. His grappling-forward style required time to impose itself — time Masvidal never gave him. Askren had barely moved from his corner when the knee landed, ending the contest before most viewers had registered the opening bell.

Why it matters

• The five-second finish remains the official fastest KO in UFC history, a record that has stood for seven years.
• The moment elevated Masvidal from respected contender to mainstream combat sports icon almost overnight.
• The stylistic contrast — Askren's wrestling versus Masvidal's explosive striking — made the outcome all the more dramatic, as Askren had no opportunity to close distance or secure a clinch.
• UFC 239 footage of the finish continues to circulate widely, cementing its place among the most replayed highlights the promotion has ever produced.