Highlighting overlooked MMA fights from around the world.
2025 has already seen a lot of exciting MMA action, especially outside of major promotions. Many knockouts from regional and international events could rival the best seen in big organizations.
For example, Jaron Lathrop made his pro debut with a stunning spinning back kick knockout at XFC 52, reminiscent of Joaquin Buckley`s famous KO.
Then, Thiago Goularte landed this incredible spinning elbow at a Thunder Fight event in Sao Paulo.
Thiago Goularte initially dominated Leonardo Mesquita, landing heavy punches and putting Mesquita on the defensive. It seemed the fight could be stopped, but Mesquita survived and began to fight back effectively.
Soon, Goularte appeared tired and on the back foot. However, in a sudden turn, he unleashed a spectacular spinning back elbow from an unexpected angle.
Goularte even fell after throwing the elbow. Despite the awkward delivery, it connected with enough force to knock Mesquita out cold, requiring a stretcher for the injured fighter. It was an unbelievable finish.
This knockout could be considered not just Knockout of the Year, but possibly Fight of the Year.
In another surprising event that night, heavyweight Mario Piazzon (8-0) was expected to win a vacant title against veteran Alex Junius (15-39). The fight ended in an unexpected way.
Piazzon is remembered for a controversial Contender Series fight in 2023 where he won by disqualification after an illegal knee. His chances of joining a major promotion are now even slimmer after this event.
In a different fight, Milena Galvao defeated Isabel Oliveira in a kicking exchange with a head kick. Galvao landed a head kick that appeared to graze Oliveira`s face, resulting in an instant reaction, and Galvao showed restraint by not following up.
At Hexagone MMA 25 in France, there were examples of both excellent and less refined striking.
Levy Carriel quickly knocked out Raphael Mebenga with a powerful right hand and a follow-up punch in just five seconds, according to Tapology.
Adama Diop and Paul-Emmanuel Gnaze engaged in a less technically sound, but still decisive, exchange.
While not a display of perfect boxing technique, the fight had a clear outcome.
Pablo Gutierrez finished his fight quickly with a flying knee against Kevin Hernandez, who didn`t react to the obvious attack.
Gutierrez launched the flying knee from a distance, and Hernandez was still unable to avoid it.
Sung Hwan Jung demonstrated a stylish flying attack.
Jung launched into the air and landed a smooth switch kick that stunned Tomoya Omura. The fight could have been stopped at that point.
Delmar Silva secured a kneebar submission at Fight Club Rush 23 in Sweden. Silva used a unique kneebar variation, showcasing the human body`s capability as a weapon, and its fragility. He utilized a leglock that is rarely seen in that position.
Luis Ivan Rodriguez won an interim flyweight title at Lux Fight League 51 in Mexico City with a rear-naked choke. Rodriguez secured the choke with a body triangle and trapped arm, earning his first title and suggesting a promising future.
