The year 2019 was a pivotal one for Jorge Masvidal, marking a series of significant victories and achievements that elevated his status in the world of mixed martial arts. From his return to the octagon after a lengthy hiatus to setting a new UFC record, Masvidal's journey through 2019 was nothing short of remarkable.
Return to the Octagon
After a 16-month layoff, Jorge Masvidal made his return to the UFC on March 16, 2019, facing Darren Till in the main event at UFC Fight
Night 147. The fight was a crucial moment for Masvidal, as he sought to re-establish himself as a formidable contender in the welterweight division. Despite being dropped in the first round, Masvidal showcased his resilience and skill by securing a knockout victory in the second round.
This win was a significant milestone for Masvidal, earning him his second Fight of the Night and third Performance of the Night bonus awards. It was a clear indication that Masvidal was back and ready to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
The Fastest Knockout in UFC History
One of the most talked-about moments of 2019 was Masvidal's fight against Ben Askren at UFC 239 on July 6. In a stunning display of strategy and execution, Masvidal delivered a flying knee that knocked out Askren just five seconds into the first round. This knockout set a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history, breaking the previous record held by Duane Ludwig.
The victory over Askren not only earned Masvidal the Performance of the Night award but also garnered him the 2019 Knockout of the Year by multiple MMA media outlets. This achievement solidified Masvidal's reputation as a dynamic and unpredictable fighter, capable of delivering spectacular performances.
The BMF Title Fight
Later in the year, on November 2, 2019, Masvidal faced Nate Diaz in the main event of UFC 244. The fight was for the symbolic "Baddest Motherfucker" (BMF) title, a unique accolade created for this bout. Masvidal dominated the fight, leading to a TKO victory when the cage-side physician stopped the fight due to a cut over Diaz's right eye.
The BMF title fight was a testament to Masvidal's skill and determination, further cementing his legacy in the sport. It was a fitting end to a year that saw Masvidal achieve new heights and capture the attention of the MMA world.
Jorge Masvidal's 2019 was a year of triumphs, marked by significant victories and record-breaking achievements. His performances throughout the year demonstrated his prowess as a fighter and his ability to captivate audiences with his dynamic style.
