MMA Fighter Starts New Year with a Spectacular Rolling Thunder KO

2018 is off to a fast start in regards to crazy finishes.

On Wednesday, at the Maihama Amphitheater in Japan, Satoshi "Tiger" Date made the first entry into 2018's Knockout of the Year race with a little Rolling Thunder.

Shunsuke Kazuki and Date kicked off Ganryujima's "Out Enemy" event in the flyweight division. Ganryujima features mixed rules bouts and has garnered some notoriety for its circular surface and putting moats around it.

Date made quick work of his opponent. He rolled forward and leveled Kazuki with his heel, and the 36-year-old hit the canvas in a heap.

Date managed to add a hammerfist on the ground before the referee could step in to halt the contest.

The unconventional KO will surely be much discussed and stay on award shortlists as the year rolls forward. The ever-exciting 21-year-old made his mark on the new year.