10 fastest finishes in UFC title fights ever

#7 Tito Ortiz vs. Evan Tanner – UFC Light-Heavyweight title – UFC 30 – 30 seconds

Tito Ortiz slammed Evan Tanner into unconsciousness in 30 seconds

Back in 2001, as the UFC transitioned from the SEG era to the more well-known Zuffa ownership, there was no doubt who the promotion’s biggest star was: Light-Heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz. A cocky, trash-talking entertainer, Ortiz’s wrestling-heavy style wasn’t the most exciting at times, but it was highly effective and had netted him both fame and notoriety.

When the UFC’s first show under their new owners was put together, Ortiz was matched in the main event with challenger Evan Tanner, with the hope being that he could continue his run as the promotion’s poster-boy. He didn’t disappoint – and delivered probably the best highlight reel moment of his career.

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Seconds into the fight the two men met in the centre of the Octagon, and after landing a low kick and some punches, Ortiz secured a bodylock on Tanner and slammed him to the ground. Tanner’s head hit the mat with force and Ortiz’s follow-up punches weren’t even needed – the challenger had been knocked out in just 30 seconds, and ‘The Huntington Beach Bad Boy’ had arrived in the big time.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Arvind Sriram