Predictors of two consecutive knockout losses in ultimate fighting championship athletes

Among UFC athletes during a 9-year period, 23% sustained two knockout losses in a row. Associations with two consecutive knockouts were older age, male sex, heavier weight class, and prior KO history, with prior KO history emerging as the only independent predictor. Recognizing prior knockout exposure as a key risk factor may help coaches and sports medicine physicians identify fighters at greater vulnerability for subsequent knockouts. Identifying high-risk fighters through knockout history may inform return-to-competition and medical clearance decisions.