The lone debuting fighter at UFC 305 on Saturday is Stewart Nicoll, an undefeated flyweight who makes his debut against Jesus Aguilar. On Friday, Aguilar missed weight for the fight, adding a little drama. The Perth card takes place Saturday night (Sunday local time), with Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya headlining.
Stewart Nicoll
Fighting at 125 lbs (flyweight)
29-years-old
Fighting out of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Training out of Bronz Martial Arts
A pro record of 8-0
4 KO/TKOs, 3 Submissions
How Nicoll will fare in the UFC:
Australia has a few flyweights the UFC could’ve brought in. I’d say Nicoll was a bit of a surprise. He’s undefeated but doesn’t have a notable win. He comes from the Beatdown Promotion which isn’t as popular as other prospect producers like Eternal or HEX. Nicoll did at least beat an undefeated fighter last time out and before that an experienced fighter.
As Nicoll has fought more and more, he’s looked improved. I think his striking is too stiff especially at 125 to thrive at a high level in the UFC. He does throw a good right hook and his chopping leg kicks are a valuable weapon.
Nicoll is a strong wrestler and he has solid jiu-jitsu. Nicoll has dominant top control and is a big threat at getting a sub after landing a ton of ground and pound. What elevates his wrestling is his relentless attack. Not just with the wrestling but after takedowns as well. Nicoll will continually land punches to eventually advance to a dominant position. Once in a dominant position he won’t just wait for an opening. He’ll unload with ground and pound until the TKO stoppage comes or the submission opportunity presents itself.
How he matches up with Aguilar:
A lot of questions come with Nicoll but if he’s at all UFC level, then he has to beat Aguilar. Aguilar is limited on the feet outside of an overhand and some power. Nicoll is also limited but seems to have more weapons. Aguilar isn’t a great wrestler and his takedown defense isn’t great. Mendonca took him down four times and he’s not even a wrestler. Aguilar is a good grappler but with Nicoll on top I don’t see him having much success. I like Nicoll because I think he’s the better fighter overall.
