3. Fedor Emelianenko vs. Andrei Arlovski
Affliction “Day of Reckoning”
Jan. 24, 2009 | Anaheim, California
Emelianenko was as frightening as ever at the time, a seemingly invincible heavyweight that tore many of his contemporaries to shreds. With the demise of Pride Fighting Championships and with the Ultimate Fighting Championship failing to reach an agreement with the Russian’s management team, Emelianenko was left to compete in second-tier organizations like Bodog Fight, M-1 Global and, in this case, Affliction. Standing across from “The Last Emperor” was Arlovski, a former UFC champion.

Arlovski had his moments. He kept Emelianenko at bay for some three minutes, peppering him with punches and kicks. Eventually, Arlovski backed the former Pride champion to the corner with a textbook push kick. What happened next will live forever in the memories of those who witnessed it. Arlovski became overzealous and decided to try an ill-advised flying knee. However, the Belarusian attempted the maneuver from too far out and telegraphed it; and when Arlovski lowered his arms to leap, Emelianenko unloaded with a perfect overhand right just as his counterpart went airborne.

The punch immediately separated “The Pit Bull” from consciousness, as Arlovski nosedived into the canvas. Emelianenko walked away, his fallen foe on the mat 3:19 into the first round.

Number 2 » Evans vs. Liddell