The 2025 UFC Submission of the Year: A Photo finish in skill and Drama
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The UFC’s 2025 awards season culminated in a remarkably close contest for submission of the Year, ultimately decided by a razor-thin margin between two spectacular finishes. The competition highlighted the evolving landscape of grappling in mixed martial arts and showcased the dedication of athletes pushing the boundaries of technique and strategy.
The Contenders: A Tale of Two Finishes
The 2025 Submission of the Year award came down to two strikingly different, yet equally impressive, submissions. Jamahal Hill’s guillotine choke against Khalil Rountree Jr. and Jalin Turner’s triangle armbar against Renato Moicano both captivated audiences and left judges with a difficult decision.
Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. – The Power of Precision
On may 11, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 57, Jamahal Hill demonstrated the devastating effectiveness of a perfectly timed guillotine choke. Facing a powerful striker in Khalil Rountree Jr., Hill weathered an early storm before securing the submission in the first round. The finish wasn’t just about strength; it was about Hill’s ability to anticipate Rountree’s movements and capitalize on a fleeting opening. The guillotine, a classic submission, was executed with exceptional technique, cutting off Rountree’s airway and forcing the tap.
Jalin Turner vs. Renato Moicano - The Art of the Triangle
Jalin Turner’s victory over Renato Moicano at UFC Fight Night: Nicolau vs. Perez on September 21, 2024, showcased a different facet of grappling prowess. Turner, known for his striking, surprised many by securing a slick triangle armbar in the first round. Moicano, a seasoned veteran, attempted to control Turner, but the younger fighter expertly used his length and flexibility to lock in the submission. The triangle armbar,a complex and frequently enough difficult technique to execute at the highest level,was applied with precision and forced Moicano to submit.
The Verdict: Why Hill’s Submission Prevailed
Ultimately, Jamahal Hill’s submission was selected as the UFC’s Submission of the Year. While Turner’s triangle armbar was undeniably impressive, the judges favored Hill’s finish due to its speed, precision, and the adversity he overcame to secure it. Hill was facing a dangerous striker and managed to transition seamlessly from striking defense to a fight-ending submission. The guillotine choke, executed against a powerful opponent, demonstrated a high level of skill and tactical awareness.
