Israel
Surprisingly, Israel has a few talented prospects. Tariel Abbasov (8-0) is one I’ve known of for a bit and I think is the best to represent his country. Abbasov, outside of MMA has an impressive resume in Combat Sambo. He won Bronze twice and gold once in the World Sambo Championships. Also, he’s won gold in the European Championships. He’s brought every bit of that legit Sambo background to MMA. Even more impressive than his outstanding wrestling has been his grappling. Abbasov has strong top position and just flows on top. So strong but light on top he will instantly take the back or the mount when the guy from underneath his attempts to move. He’s a submission threat both on his back with the triangle and more impressively with the guillotines he’s finished with in mount.
Italy
The UFC is in desperate need of new Italian fighters. Due to his growth over his last few fights, Michael Pagani (7-0) is my pick. His last fight he beat James Power who I like a lot. Prior to that he has three highlight-reel knockouts. Pagani fights long while switching stances throwing kicks and punches. He can wrestle but has a limited ground game.
Japan
One of the toughest places in the world to scout is Japan. It’s because the footage is so tough to find on these fighters. The only one I could find tape on that I actually looked at was Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga (6-0). Ephoeviga is a big athletic lightweight that’s looked solid so far. He’s at his best on the mat where he can showcase his jiu-jitsu. On the feet he at least has good length and useful movement. Not sold but he has the tools to be good from what I’ve seen.
