Credit: UFC
2. A Pirate’s Life for Shara “Bullet” Magomedov
At a time when the middleweight division is enjoying the most parity that it has in many years, Shara “Bullet” Magomedov has arrived at the perfect time. The undefeated middleweight had accumulated a cult following on the regional circuit before bringing his talents to the UFC late last year where his personality has now been on full display for fans of the world’s largest organization. In just two appearances, he’s become one of the must-see competitors on each event he’s been a part of and a short-notice opportunity on Saturday almost guarantees he’ll be a center of attention if he wins his third Octagon bout.
Of course, it has not been all smooth sailing for “Bullet” as his last bout saw controversy as he was not reprimanded for a fence grab in a critical moment that marred what was otherwise an impressive performance. But the moment clearly had no ill effect on his star power as he was brought over to the United States with the full red carpet reception during International Fight Week and even had an opportunity to film a role in a movie in Los Angeles before then. Another impressive performance on Saturday in the short-notice UFC Abu Dhabi co-main event would put him on the path to bouts with the bigger names of the division.
Considering that he is held in such high regard that he was tasked with helping bolster the card in the absence of a beloved veteran in Nick Diaz and a proven contender in Vicente Luque on two weeks notice and you’ll know everything you need to about the regard the UFC has for him.
