In 1995, 91% of UFC fights ended in the first round. In 2026 it is 30%. The high is 91% in 1995; the low 20% in 2024.
| Year | R1 finish rate | First-round finishes | Fights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 91% | 29 | 32 |
| 1996 | 89% | 32 | 36 |
| 1997 | 79% | 30 | 38 |
| 1999 | 52% | 22 | 42 |
| 2000 | 33% | 14 | 42 |
| 2001 | 33% | 13 | 39 |
| 2002 | 35% | 18 | 52 |
| 2003 | 44% | 17 | 39 |
| 2004 | 44% | 17 | 39 |
| 2005 | 44% | 35 | 79 |
| 2006 | 43% | 68 | 158 |
| 2007 | 34% | 58 | 169 |
| 2008 | 35% | 70 | 201 |
| 2009 | 31% | 67 | 213 |
| 2010 | 24% | 61 | 250 |
| 2011 | 29% | 85 | 295 |
| 2012 | 30% | 99 | 333 |
| 2013 | 28% | 107 | 376 |
| 2014 | 27% | 134 | 494 |
| 2015 | 27% | 124 | 464 |
| 2016 | 24% | 115 | 483 |
| 2017 | 23% | 104 | 446 |
| 2018 | 25% | 115 | 469 |
| 2019 | 24% | 119 | 506 |
| 2020 | 26% | 116 | 444 |
| 2021 | 22% | 108 | 497 |
| 2022 | 26% | 133 | 506 |
| 2023 | 25% | 127 | 504 |
| 2024 | 20% | 104 | 513 |
| 2025 | 28% | 143 | 515 |
| 2026 | 30% | 121 | 399 |