The UFC’s top finishers: legends who closed the show

October 17, 2025 Kris Isaksen

In the brutal world of the UFC, finishing fights is the ultimate sign of dominance. Whether by knockout or submission, these warriors made careers out of never leaving it to the judges. Here are the top 10 fighters with the most finishes in UFC history—counting down from number 10 to number one.

10. Glover Teixeira – the aging champion with grit

Former light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira recorded 13 UFC finishes. Known for his toughness and comeback ability, the Brazilian mixed his jiu-jitsu base with underrated knockout power to close out fights throughout his long career.

9. Max Holloway – the volume striker who delivers damage

Max Holloway also has 13 finishes to his name, built largely on his incredible striking output. While most of his wins came by KO, the BMF champ also picked up two submissions, showing he’s got the full MMA arsenal when needed.

8. Vicente Luque – silent assassin with finishing instincts

Vicente Luque quietly became one of the UFC’s most reliable finishers, racking up 14 stoppages. With a perfect balance of eight knockouts and six submissions, his well-rounded game made him a consistent threat in the welterweight division.

7. Anderson Silva – the spider who stunned the world

Anderson Silva delivered 14 spectacular UFC finishes during his legendary run. As one of the greatest strikers the sport has seen, Silva used his precision, creativity, and timing to dismantle opponents during his record-setting title reign.

6. Matt Brown – the immortal knockout artist

Matt Brown tallied 15 finishes, with 13 of them coming by knockout. Known for his relentless style and aggression, ‘The Immortal’ turned every fight into a war, earning cult hero status along the way.

5. Dustin Poirier – a technician with knockout power

Dustin Poirier ended 15 UFC fights inside the distance, combining elite-level boxing with underrated submissions. ‘The Diamond’ became a fan favorite thanks to his all-action style and ability to finish at any moment.

4. Derrick Lewis – the heavyweight KO king

Derrick Lewis stands alone as the UFC’s all-time knockout leader with 16 KOs—every one of his UFC finishes. His raw power has made him one of the most entertaining and dangerous heavyweights in the sport’s history.

3. Donald Cerrone – the cowboy who never said no

Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone also reached 16 finishes, split between knockouts and submissions. Known for his relentless fight schedule and Muay Thai skills, Cerrone’s willingness to fight anyone, anytime helped him rack up stoppages over a decade-long run.

2. Jim Miller – the ageless warrior

Jim Miller has 19 UFC finishes and continues to add to his record. With 13 wins by submission and six knockouts, his durability and veteran savvy have made him a fixture in the Octagon—and a favorite among hardcore fans.

1. Charles Oliveira – submission artist turned superstar

Charles Oliveira leads all UFC fighters with a stunning 21 finishes. Seventeen have come by submission, showcasing his unmatched jiu-jitsu, but his improved striking in recent years has made him even more dangerous.