The Ultimate Fighter 32 hits screens later this year, with coaches Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko in tow, looking to set up a trilogy fight. Featherweights and middleweights are in the running for a six figure contract this season, with the line-up being touted as one of the most international in the show’s history. How does it all break down? Read on as we take a look at the full TUF 32 cast!
Featherweights
Edwin Cooper Jr.
6-1
Albuquerque, N.M.
Six-foot-one
31-years-old
Jackson Wink MMA
Combined opponent’s record (at the time they fought): 19-7-1
Boxing: C+
Kickboxing: C
Knockout power: D
Explosiveness: B
Footwork: C+
Clinch: B
Wrestling: A+
Grappling: B
Ground and Pound: A+
Submission threat: D
Striking defense: C-
Takedown defense: Unknown
Grappling defense: C+
Cardio: B
Fight IQ: A
Cooper is a three-time Illinois high school state champ, an NJCAA National Champ, a D2 finalist, and he was a national qualifier at the University of Iowa. From bell to bell his full intention is to wrestle. He’s super aggressive with his wrestling always putting everything into his takedowns. Cooper puts in a lot of energy and while he does slow it’s not as bad as you would expect watching him.
Along with high-level wrestling, Cooper actively rains down ground and pound. He has control but lacks jiu-jitsu. He hardly ever takes dominant positions as he just worries about inflicting damage. On the feet, he has a good jab but is stiff. He’ll struggle on the feet if he can’t get the takedown especially later in the fight. Not many guys will get that chance because Cooper is such a top-notch wrestler. His timing, speed, control, and drive on his takedowns are all hard to prepare for. His only loss is by an armbar which he didn’t even tap from. Cooper in just two-round exhibition fights is going to be a problem.
