Jorge Masvidal Vs. Ben Askren: The Story Behind The Rivalry

The rivalry between Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren is one of the most memorable and talked-about feuds in mixed martial arts (MMA) history. It's a clash of personalities, fighting styles, and philosophies that culminated in one of the fastest and most spectacular knockouts the sport has ever seen. This intense animosity captivated fans and continues to resonate even years after their single encounter in the Octagon. Let's dive deep into the roots of this rivalry, the buildup to their fight, the unforgettable finish, and the aftermath that followed.

The Seeds of Discontent: How the Rivalry Began

Before they were slated to face each other in the cage, Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren were already exchanging verbal jabs and building a simmering tension. Askren, known for his dominant wrestling and outspoken nature, often used social media to stir the pot and get under the skin of his opponents. Masvidal, a veteran of the fight game with a no-nonsense attitude, was not one to back down from a war of words.

Askren's arrival in the UFC in 2019 brought with it a wave of hype and expectations. He was an undefeated former Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder, and many saw him as a potential threat to the welterweight division's established stars. His wrestling-heavy style, while effective, was often criticized for being less exciting than the striking-based approaches of fighters like Masvidal. This difference in styles became a central theme in their rivalry.

Ben Askren’s trash talk often targeted fighters he perceived as overrated or lacking in skill. He didn’t hold back in expressing his opinions, and Jorge Masvidal soon found himself in the crosshairs. Askren questioned Masvidal's record and fighting ability, suggesting that Masvidal was more hype than substance. These comments didn't sit well with Masvidal, who had built a reputation as a tough and durable fighter willing to take on anyone. The back-and-forth banter escalated quickly, fueled by social media and interviews, and it became clear that this was more than just a promotional ploy. There was genuine animosity between the two men.

The clash of personalities further amplified the rivalry. Askren, with his often smug and confident demeanor, rubbed many people the wrong way. Masvidal, on the other hand, was seen as a street-smart and authentic fighter who resonated with fans. Their contrasting images created a natural divide, with fans taking sides and eagerly anticipating their eventual showdown. The rivalry became personal, with both fighters taking shots at each other's character and motivations. This personal element added another layer of intrigue to the matchup and made it one of the most anticipated fights of the year.

The Buildup: Trash Talk and Anticipation

The months leading up to the fight at UFC 239 were filled with intense trash talk and escalating animosity. Ben Askren continued to taunt Jorge Masvidal at every opportunity, questioning his skills and predicting an easy victory. He confidently asserted that he would take Masvidal down and submit him without much difficulty. Askren's wrestling credentials were undeniable, and he made it clear that he intended to use his grappling优势 to neutralize Masvidal's striking.

Masvidal, however, remained unfazed by Askren's taunts. He responded with his own brand of trash talk, often laced with humor and sarcasm. He questioned Askren's striking ability and vowed to knock him out in devastating fashion. Masvidal's confidence was palpable, and he seemed genuinely motivated to silence Askren and prove his doubters wrong.

The promotional material for the fight heavily emphasized the contrast between their styles and personalities. The UFC played up the storyline of the brash wrestler versus the street-fighting brawler, creating a compelling narrative that drew in viewers. The pre-fight press conferences were particularly heated, with both fighters exchanging insults and engaging in staredowns that crackled with tension. These events only served to heighten the anticipation for the fight and solidify the rivalry in the minds of fans.

Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren also engaged in several memorable media appearances leading up to the fight. They participated in interviews, podcasts, and social media Q&As, using these platforms to further promote the fight and intensify their rivalry. Their interactions were often confrontational and entertaining, providing fans with a glimpse into their personalities and motivations. The buildup to the fight was a masterclass in promotion, with both fighters playing their roles to perfection and creating a buzz that resonated throughout the MMA world. By the time they stepped into the Octagon, the stage was set for a truly unforgettable encounter.

The Unforgettable Finish: Five Seconds That Shocked the World

UFC 239 took place on July 6, 2019, in Las Vegas, and the fight between Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren was one of the most anticipated bouts on the card. As the fighters made their entrances, the atmosphere in the arena was electric. The crowd was divided, with fans chanting for both Masvidal and Askren, creating a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation.

As soon as the bell rang, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a flying knee at Askren. The knee connected perfectly, knocking Askren unconscious instantly. Masvidal followed up with a few additional punches before the referee stepped in to stop the fight. The entire sequence lasted just five seconds, making it the fastest knockout in UFC history at the time.

The crowd erupted in disbelief as they witnessed one of the most spectacular finishes in MMA history. Masvidal's flying knee was a perfectly executed technique that caught Askren completely by surprise. The knockout was so sudden and brutal that it left many fans speechless. Replays of the knockout were shown repeatedly on the arena's big screens, and the image of Masvidal's knee connecting with Askren's head quickly went viral on social media.

The five-second knockout not only ended the fight but also cemented Jorge Masvidal's status as a certified superstar. The win catapulted him to new heights of fame and recognition, and he became one of the most popular and marketable fighters in the UFC. The knockout also had a significant impact on Ben Askren's career. It was his first professional loss, and it raised questions about his ability to compete at the highest level of the UFC. While Askren would fight a few more times, he never fully recovered from the devastating defeat.

The finish was not only a highlight-reel knockout but also a testament to Masvidal's fight IQ and preparation. He had clearly studied Askren's tendencies and devised a game plan to exploit his weaknesses. The flying knee was a risky move, but Masvidal executed it flawlessly, demonstrating his skill and athleticism. The knockout was a perfect example of how a single moment can change the course of a fighter's career and solidify their legacy in the sport.

The Aftermath: Reactions and Reflections

The aftermath of the fight was filled with reactions, reflections, and lasting consequences for both Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren. Masvidal's victory was celebrated by fans and fellow fighters alike. He became an overnight sensation, and his flying knee knockout was replayed endlessly on sports networks and social media platforms.

Masvidal capitalized on his newfound fame, using his platform to promote his brand and advocate for his values. He embraced his