Arshiyan Memon
India
29-years-old
7-0
100% finish rate (5 KO/TKOs, 2 Submissions)
Combined opponents’ record: 14-9
Pros
-Throws in volume
-Fast
-Good movement
-Good kicks
Cons
-TDD needs work
-Grappling defense lacks
-Leaves head on the centerline
-Throws too wide/wild
-Too willing to trade in the pocket
Memon looked much improved in his last fight, but it’s important to note that India’s MMA scene remains quite weak. He’s done what’s expected—finishing all his opponents—but not in a way that exceeds expectations.
There are significant concerns with his skill set, particularly due to the level of competition he’s faced. Memon fights with reckless aggression, throwing high-volume strikes from both sides, but his technique is sloppy. His punches come from the hip with his chin exposed, making him an easy target for counters and takedowns. His takedown defense showed improvement in his last fight, but prior to that, he was regularly taken down, exposing major weaknesses in his grappling.
For Indian MMA, Memon is a solid fighter, but at the highest level, he’s not there yet. His takedown defense, grappling, and striking defense are all lacking. Even his strengths—such as his striking volume—lack refinement. Initially, I thought he was better, but after a deeper look, he’s still far from UFC-ready.
“I feel proud that I am, I think, the first Indian fighter on The Ultimate Fighter,” Memon said ahead of his run on TUF. “I’m an underdog fighter, striker, if someone takes me on the ground, I know how to handle the ground, and I will grapple with him.” Memon also noted that for a long time, India’s focus was the sport of Cricket. “Slowly, slowly, MMA is growing now in India. I think in four, five years it’s growing, and Indian fighters [will be] coming to the UFC.”
