Mark O. Madsen will make his promotional debut in the co-main event of UFC Copenhagen, a rare occurence for an octagon newcomer.
The UFC is coming to Copenhagen, Denmark on September 28. Going down at the Royal Arena, the line-up is set. Middleweight contenders are doing battle in the main event, as Jack Hermansson faces Jared Cannonier. With thirteen bouts confirmed, there are a handful of debuts. One of those being Denmark’s own Mark Overgaard Madsen. Mark O. Madsen will be taking on Italian Danilo Belluardo (12-4 MMA, 0-1 UFC) — in the co-main event.
5’10″
Lightweight
34-years-old
Nykøbing, Storstrom, Denmark
Team Olympian
8-0
2 KO/TKO
3 Submissions (2 Guillotine’s, 1 Rear-naked Choke)
How will Madsen fare in the UFC:
Madsen is an excellent prospect with his only downfall being his age. He turned 35-years-old on September 23. Madsen has a background in Greco-Roman Wrestling in the Olympics holding accomplishments in the Olympic games (silver medal), European Championship, and World Championship. His wrestling has played a big part in his successful MMA career. With heavy hands and improving striking, he’s still first and foremost a wrestler.
Madsen has had his share of highlight suplexes and slams throughout his career. Madsen has the ability as well to shoot impressively from the outside getting double leg takedowns. On top, he does fantastic work moving right into dominant positions and landing smashing ground and pound. Madsen also has a very tight guillotine/ninja choke. As said above, Madsen has improved striking and hits really hard while being explosive. When it comes to weaknesses however, it would have to be his stand up, which is lacking fundamentals. Overall a solid signing. Prediction: 3-0 to start UFC career.
How Madsen matches up with Belluardo:
Belluardo is looking to get his first win inside the UFC after coming up short in his debut against Joel Alvarez. On the feet, both are a bit wild and rely on the power in their hands. Madsen though hits a lot harder than Belluardo and his aggressiveness should be a big factor as well. Belluardo struggles defensively on the feet leaving his chin up and lacks any head movement. The best chance Belluardo has is on the mat where he does have exceptional jiu-jitsu. The problem is, that’s where Madsen is going to be a nightmare at. Madsen is just much stronger, relentless, and has superior cardio. This is a setup fight for Madsen, and it would be shocking if he came up short.
