5 Terrible UFC Fights That Ended Via Highlight-Reel Knockout
4. Robbie Lawler Vs. Tyron Woodley
It's safe to say that "Ruthless" Robbie Lawler is one of the most beloved and exciting champions that MMA has ever seen. A true fighter through and through, the resurgent second half of his career was an easy story to get behind. Accompany that with his endlessly entertaining style and you have a must-see competitor.
In mid-2016, Lawler had already defended his title twice in some instant classics before he looked for his third. Next in line was the former Strikeforce standout, "The Chosen One" Tyron Woodley.
Woodley was known for his explosive wrestling game and devastating power. A matchup between him and Lawler was very intriguing for several reasons. For starters, Woodley had waited for his title shot, therefore, meaning he spent over a year on the sidelines. Secondly, Lawler had shown much-improved takedown defense throughout his championship run. That was if it was needed. Because like Woodley, Lawler also possessed fight-ending power.
Once the bell sounded, the tension between each fighter could be felt. We were just waiting for the first big bomb to be thrown. It did come, but that was all the fight would be. After an initial 50 second feeling-out process with no strikes thrown, Woodley would back Lawler to the cage and hurl his big right hand only to miss and clinch up with the champion.
The two were broken up after a quick 20 seconds and then got back to looking at each other. Lawler tried to find some body kicks but that was it. All until Woodley inevitably uncorked a bomb that sent Lawler into another universe. For a final Lawler title fight, it left quite a lot to be desired. Ultimately, the credit goes to Woodley for that.