Ekaterina Shakalova (Bantamweight)
24 | 5’2” | Kharkiv, Ukraine | 6-1 | 4 finishes | 1 KO/TKO, 3 Submission’s (Brabo Choke, Armbar, RNC) | Combined Opponents’ Record: 17-7 | Best win – Jamila Sandora (5-0)
Ukraine’s Shakalova made quite the impact last year. With a win over a good prospect in Róża Gumienna and Jamila Sandora, while also beating former UFC fighter Izabela Badurek, things are looking up for her. Shakalova is a three-time grappling world champion and a four-time European grappling champion.
Her wrestling to showcase that grappling is outstanding. Shakalova has classic wrestling skills and likes to use a lot of arm drags which is something you don’t see much in MMA. She also changes levels for well-executed double legs and is known for some high amplitude takedowns in her repertoire. Shakalova is very good at moving into side control and letting off some relentless ground and pound. Her striking needs work but her wrestling and grappling are top-notch.
