5 UFC fighters riding a streak of 1st round finishes

Islam Makhachev has record two first round finishes in a row

There are few more shocking moments in the UFC than a first-round stoppage. The level of competition is so high in the promotion that it is very rare for one fighter to be that much better than their opponent. However, when it does happen, the winner is often destined for big things.

We recently saw Islam Makhachev record his second straight first-round stoppage over Bobby Green. The victory had Dana White ready to award him a title shot, which shows just how highly regarded consecutive first-round finishes are in the promotion.

Islam Makhachev defeats Bobby Green via 1st Round TKO!

#UFCVegas49 #MMATwitter https://t.co/f9t5mhX4Kf

While Makhachev no longer appears to be getting that title shot, there are several other UFC stars who have become huge stars off the back of streaks like this. Perhaps the best example is Ronda Rousey, who had two streaks of seven and four first-round finishes and became an absolute megastar in the process.

Here are five UFC fighters riding a streak of 1st round finishes:

Honorable mentions: Danaa Batgerel - UFC bantamweight - 3 in a row

#5. Paddy Pimblett - UFC lightweight - 3 in a row

Paddy Pimblett made his UFC debut with a bang last September when he knocked out Luigi Vendramini in the first round. While that performance is the one that got him on many fans' radar, it was actually his third consecutive first-round stoppage. The two prior took place during his time in Cage Warriors.

Wowwwwww. Welcome to the UFC Paddy Pimblett. My word. What a debut. First round KO. With style.

While Pimblett only really showed his striking skills in his octagon debut, he also possesses dangerous submissions. His final fight with Cage Warriors was a first-round submission win and he has seven submission wins in his 20 professional fights.

Pimblett will not have to wait long before attempting to add to this current streak. He is scheduled to fight Rodrigo Vargas on March 19 in what will be somewhat of a homecoming for the Englishman. Given the hype already surrounding him, a fourth consecutive first-round win would likely send fans into hysteria.