Top 5 knockouts in the history of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF)
Since its debut in 2005, The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) has been the site of some of the most incredible knockouts in UFC history. Many fighters have competed on the show hoping to earn a UFC contract and maybe, one day, become champion.
Several TUF participants have realized both dreams, including Kamaru Usman, Michael Bisping, Matt Serra, and T.J. Dillashaw.
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It’s no secret that fighters known for finishes have been given opportunities by the UFC. Looking back at past seasons, the number of elite-level strikers that have participated on the show is astonishing. Regardless of weight class, each season has featured a highlight-reel knockout.
Some past TUF competitors are remembered more for their knockouts on the show than what they accomplished in their careers. This list will look at the top five knockouts in the history of The Ultimate Fighter.
#5. Roy 'Big Country' Nelson vs. Brendan Schaub - TUF 10 (2009)
In a season that featured heavyweights, Roy 'Big Country' Nelson and Brendan Schaub met in the finale to determine the TUF champion.
Kimbo Slice was on season 10 of TUF. His first fight was against the eventual season 10 winner Roy “Big Country” Nelson https://t.co/8VPgQ81GeE
Nelson defeated fan-favorite Kimbo Slice, Justin Wren, and James McSweeney to get to the finals. Meanwhile, Schaub beat Demico Rogers, teammate Jon Madsen, and Marcus Jones to earn a crack at 'Big Country'.
Looking back, it’s hard to believe that Nelson even competed in that season of TUF. He already had 17 professional fights at that point and was much more experienced than the other competitors. Furthermore, he had been in fights with recognized heavyweight names like UFC veteran Jeff Monson and Andrei Arlovski. One could make the argument that Nelson could've joined the UFC without having to go through TUF.
When Nelson fought Schaub in the finale, it didn't take long for his immense power to decide the outcome. At 3:42 of the first round, Nelson unleashed a right hand that caught his opponent behind the ear. It was clear from the way Schaub hit the ground that the fight was over. That did not deter 'Big Country' from adding another strike for good measure, before referee Herb Dean stepped in to stop the contest.