Unforgettable Late-Game Stoppages in UFC

The UFC has a storied history of dramatic moments, and few are as gripping as fifth-round finishes in five-round main events or title fights. A recent video from the UFC highlights the five most recent instances where fighters pushed their limits to secure victory in the final moments of grueling battles. These stoppages showcase the heart, determination, and skill required to close out a fight when fatigue sets in and the stakes are at their highest.

Demetrious Johnson's Historic Submission

One of the standout moments in the compilation features Demetrious Johnson, the former flyweight champion, who delivered a jaw-dropping finish against Kyoji Horiguchi at UFC 186. With just one second remaining in the fight, Johnson locked in an armbar, forcing the tap at the very last moment around the 25:00 mark of their bout. This finish remains the latest stoppage in UFC history, cementing Johnson's reputation for relentless pursuit until the final bell.

TJ Dillashaw's Dominant Title Defense

Another highlight showcases TJ Dillashaw's bantamweight title defense against Joe Soto at UFC 177. Dillashaw, who had recently claimed the belt, overwhelmed Soto with precise striking and secured a stoppage in the fifth round. Near the end of the fight, as captured in the video at roughly the 2:30 mark, Dillashaw's barrage of strikes left Soto unable to continue, proving his dominance in the division during that era.

Modern Classics in the Fifth Round

The video also emphasizes that three of these five latest fifth-round finishes have occurred within the past two years at the time of its posting. While specific details of the most recent fights are not fully narrated in the footage, the compilation underscores the increasing frequency of late-round drama in modern UFC events. These moments, often occurring in championship bouts or main events, highlight how fighters are pushing their endurance and strategy to new heights in the octagon.

The Significance of Five-Round Fights

Five-round fights, typically reserved for title bouts or main events, test a fighter's conditioning and mental fortitude. The video illustrates how these extended battles often lead to dramatic conclusions, as fighters dig deep to find a way to end the fight before the judges' scorecards come into play. The showcased finishes serve as a testament to the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a single moment in the final round can change the course of a fighter's career.