ACA 132 | Belarus | Friday

Flyweight, Bidzina Gavasheshvili (8-2)

Gavasheshvili, from Georgia, is a European combat sambo champion. His only loss in six years is to thriving UFC flyweight Mudaerji Su. Gavasheshvili is exciting, well-rounded, and dominant. He fights Josiel Silva (14-5).

CFFC 103 | US | Friday

Bantamweight, DeAndre Anderson (5-0)

Anderson was a successful Alabama high school wrestler and football player. He won a state championship in wrestling and amassed a 154-15 record throughout high school. It wasn’t until 2016 when he transitioned from those sports to MMA. Wanting to round off his overall skill-set, he has been competing in kickboxing and boxing while doing MMA. He has a 1-2 boxing record and a 1-1 kickboxing record. Competing in different disciplines has really improved his stand-up which is a huge compliment to a strong wrestling base. He fights Da’Mon Blackshear (10-4).

Rizin 32 | Japan | Saturday

Atomweight, Rena Kubota (11-3)

Kubota is a professional kickboxer/shootboxer with all the credentials in the world. Kubota is the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014 shootboxing champion, with a record of 23-5. RENA’s MMA career is still burgeoning but she has looked very impressive with her striking, kickboxing, and surprisingly her submissions skills. Impressively, Rena has hit two submissions already. A flying armbar and a cravat choke. She fights Miyuu Yamamoto (6-5).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlKCOK2U25s&ab_channel=FlavorBudLiving

RCC | Russia | Friday

Heavyweight, Alexander Soldatkin (10-3)

Soldatkin is a big, muscular guy and someone you don’t expect to throw a lot of spinning attacks — but that’s exactly what he does. The big man doesn’t overuse the flashy attacks but uses them just to keep his opponent guessing. Someone with his power and athleticism alone is a threat. There is still a lot of concerns going forward with him. He fights Edivan Santos (12-3).

Fight Club Rush 10 | Sweeden | Saturday

Bantamweight, Felipe Lima (10-1)

Brazil’s Lima has massive potential. He has gone the distance five times and that don’t mean he lacks the killer instinct because he goes after it. Of the footage available he’s a striker first but is a good wrestler and grapples very well. On the feet, Lima is a dynamic striker. He’s an athletic fighter guy that favors the flying knee. He goes body-head better than most and does it often. Lima has excellent shot placement being active in what he throws. The 23-year-old out of Allstars Training Center has a bright future. He fights Evgeny Odnorog (21-6).

Strawweight, Josefine Lindgren Knutsson (2-0)

Knutsson may be only two fights into her pro career but has an extensive kickboxing career. Her kickboxing record is 27-5 and she has beat girls like Mellony Geugjes and Kana Morimoto. Her two MMA fights have been against more experienced fighters. Knutsson will have her takedown defense and so far she hasn’t been taken down. Instead, Knutsson has been the one getting takedowns. On the feet though she’s looked great. Knutsson fights with a lot of volume, feints, and power. She throws combinations alone with her legs but her striking altogether is so good. Knutsson is the real deal. She fights Lanchana Green (4-3-1).

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: RIZIN, CFFC and More appeared first on Cageside Press.

ONE Championship | Singapore | Friday

Lightweight, Christian Lee (15-3)

After a failed title shot in 2018, Lee rebounded and when he moved to welterweight (lightweight under the ONE weight system) he won a title. Lee is excellent on the feet, being quick and dynamic with outstanding footwork. He covers distance quickly and has some dangerous power is everything he throws. His abilities on the mat are there when needed, holding four submission wins to date. At only 23, Lee is already a star for ONE Championship. Imagine where he’s going to be in, say, five years. He’s well-rounded, has solid cardio, and gets better in every fight. He fights Rae Yoon Ok (15-3).

ACA 129 | Russia | Friday

Lightweight, Pavel Gordeev (18-2)

Gordeev has shown he is a promising prospect, beating four undefeated fighters, former UFC fighter Mickael Lebout and Shane Campbell, and other solid competition. Gordeev is mainly a striker who loves to use the jab often. The Russian has good long straight punches and his speed can be a real factor. Gordeev has also shown the ability to land at a high rate as well. His wrestling is decent enough to be effective with good scrambles and an active ground game. He fights Zhorabek Tesheboev (8-2).

Future MMA 13 | Brazil | Friday

Middleweight, Claudio Ribeiro (8-2)

Outside of his pro debut, his only loss is a split decision in 2018. Ribeiro brings a wild approach slinging wild looping punches. He’s a wild man but with a lot of power in his hands. Not just in his hands as Ribeiro throws thunderous leg kicks as well. Ribeiro is someone you don’t want to rush in on as he will catch you. Not someone to sit in the pocket and trade with either because his knockout power is dangerous. He fights Kelles Albuquerque (24-20).

Flyweight, Wellington Souza (8-1)

Souza is an exciting young prospect out of Brazil. He’s competed in some jiu-jitsu competitions but it’s his stand-up that has impressed. Souza throws heavy leg kicks and fights long very well. He throws wide but throws in twos. What makes him dangerous is his explosiveness. Souza likes to throw the flying knee and has a dangerous head kick he’s landed with a few times. Not completely sold on him but he’s worth watching. He fights Eduardo Henrique da Silva (7-1).

Featherweight, Jean Silva (8-2)

Silva is on a five-fight win streak since his last loss in early 2018. In all eight of his wins, Silva has a 100% finish rate. Silva is fast, athletic, powerful, and explosive. There are concerns about his takedown defense. He does a good job at least getting back to his feet and can end the fight at any point when he has space. Silva has the ability to go to air for the flying knee, sit down on heavy punches, attack with kicks, and grab a hold of the neck. Not sure if he’s at a high level but he’s at that excitement level. Silva fights John David (8-3).

LFA 115 | US | Friday

Light heavyweight Joshua Silveira (5-0)

Silveira trains out of American Top Team under head coach and his father, Conan Silveira. He’s currently 5-0 and went 4-0 as an amateur, so he does have good experience. Silveira wrestled in college for Arizona State University and was a Florida high school state champ. With that wrestling pedigree always in his back pocket, he’s able to let loose on the feet. His shot selection is very on-point with his hands, and his left high kick is very sneaky and dangerous. Silveira really checks all the boxes and is a major prospect to watch for. He fights Tee Cummins (3-0).

Light heavyweight, Tee Cummins (4-0)

Although Cummins isn’t experienced much in pro MMA, he has also dabbled in some bare-knuckle boxing for BKFC going 2-0. Cummins has displayed technical ability, patience, and finishing ability. That trifecta isn’t seen much at 205. In his last fight he was able to prove he can wrestler and end the fight with ground and pound. A lot still needs to be seen from Cummins, but he’s looked really good recently. Watching his old fights he’s improved quickly. He fights Josh Silveira (4-0).

Lightweight, Lucas Clay (7-1)

Lucas Clay has wins over good prospects like Brant Moore, JJ Okanovich, and Mike Breeden. On the feet, he’s still green but at least fights long. Clay is a grappler and mostly a submission artist. Both his submission wins are from a rare buggy choke. He is too willing to fight off his back but in the same sense, that’s where he’s most dangerous. There’s a lot Clay can improve on but he’s definitely worth a watch. He fights Jake Kozorosky (5-1).

Featherweight, Edwin Cooper Jr. (4-1)

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. His sole loss came by a submission where the ref made a mistake saying Cooper tapped. Cooper is a top-level wrestler. To wrestle is his intention in every fight as it should be. He’s very aggressive, strong, and crafty. Cooper has a deep gas tank being able to impose his will on you constantly. He’s got lock-down top control and some good ground and pound when the opening is there. He fights Andrew D Johnson (2-0-1).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOS7ZPXvWQY&t=1180s

Middleweight, Roland Dunlap (2-0)

Dunlap is someone that’s been on my radar ever since he was an amateur. Dunlap has won two wrestling state titles in high school and had a career record of 159-9. He went on to be a three-time All-American and wrestled D3 in the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. Along with that wrestling upbringing, his father was a high-level karate black belt. Dunlap fights very loosely and very long. He’ll throw a lot of kicks and he’ll attack with both legs attacking each side of his opponent. Where Dunlap shines is when he uses his wrestling. Dunlap does nice work changing levels as his opponents come forward to engage. He sneaks under punches to get a hold of the legs to lift guys up and slam them to the mat. To read my more in-depth piece on Dunlap click here. He fights Ryot Waller (3-6).

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: Christian Lee Looks to Continue His Reign appeared first on Cageside Press.

 OKTAGON 27 | Slovakia | Saturday

Featherweight, Vojto Barborik (13-1)

Currently on an eleven-fight win streak, Vojto Barborik’s only loss is to a good fighter in Tomas Deak. Barborik is primarily a wrestler who chains together his takedown attempts well. He’s a monster on top with active and heavy ground and pound. He’s very sound with nasty elbows and heavy hammer fists. Barborik doesn’t have many TKO stoppages mind you as ten of his wins are via submission. He fights the well-known Ivan Buchinger (38-7).

Eternal MMA 61 | Australia | Saturday

Lightweight, Daniel Hill (5-0)

Not far into his career Hill has stopped a lot of momentum from other countrymen. He was the one to snap a five-fight win streak from Josh Togo. He also beat David Martinez who is a solid prospect. Hill is well-rounded and gets better as the fight goes. He gets taken down and hit a lot but never goes away. Hill has good striking and will take damage to get in a few shots. He’s even better on the mat. He will take any position given to him. Not a great fighter anywhere but so tough. Hill fights Jack Becker (8-2).

ACA 128 | Belarus | Saturday

Bantamweight, Vazha Tsiptauri (10-1-1)

Tsiptauri is a native out of Georgia who is an underrated prospect. He’s a really well-rounded dangerous guy who is tough to figure out. Tsiptauri is a ball of output always throwing something. He’s really kick-heavy on the feet but never lets off the gas. He kicks more than he punches but puts it together well. Tsiptauri is a solid wrestler too. His timing on his shots is off what he does on the feet. He blends it all together so well. Tsiptauri is a very capable grappler. He is a submission threat and is always working to improve his position. He has it all. Tsiptauri fights Ruslan Abiltarov (23-10-1).

Open Fighting Championship | Russia | Saturday

Welterweight, Sharaf Davlatmurodov (18-3-1)

Davlatmurodov is a fun fighter with a lot of good experience. He has wins over some good competition and has lost to only solid fighters. On the feet, Davlatmurodov throws a lot of volume throwing with different patterns and mixing it up very well. He has good kickboxing and from the outside has real good long striking. Mixing it up, Davlatmurodov will explode on the hips taking his opponents down. At times he can be too aggressive on the mat but he has RNC’s for a reason. He’s really good. Mostly he just needs to improve small things— but the takedown defense should be his biggest concern. He fights Yasubey Enomoto (22-12).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QNF7kTb7sY&t=3s

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: A Short Week appeared first on Cageside Press.

PFL 2021 #4 | US | Thursday

Featherweight, Movlid Khaybulaev (15-0-1)

Khaybulaev is a very solid fighter all around, and he is really technical in his stand-up. He throws a lot of spinning attacks, not overdoing it, but that is a good thing. Khaybulaev uses the flying knee often, which he’s used to knock out opponents. With that said, he also has good wrestling; he is able to shoot in for a double leg or he can lift and slam you to the mat. Khaybulaev can usually get the fight down multiple times in a bout. He fights Sheymon Moraes (11-5).

ACA 124 | Russia | Friday

Lightweight, Pavel Gordeev (17-2)

Gordeev has shown he is a promising prospect, beating four undefeated fighters, former UFC fighter Mickael Lebout and Shane Campbell, and other solid competition. Gordeev is mainly a striker who loves to use the jab often. The Russian has good long straight punches and his speed can be a real factor. Gordeev has also shown the ability to land at a high rate as well. His wrestling is decent enough to be effective with good scrambles and an active ground game. He fights Denis Silva (16-5).

UWC 27 | Mexico | Friday

Featherweight, Aaron Cañarte (6-0)

Canarte is undefeated as a pro and went undefeated as an amateur going 5-0. Outside of MMA, Canarte has competed in kickboxing fighting for WGP. He has lights-out power in his hands and some heavy kicks as well. He’s well-versed on the feet throwing kicks and punches together. I’m not fully sold on him due to his lack of competition but his technical ability is good enough to keep an eye on. He fights Alexander Barahona (12-6).

Bellator 260 | US | Friday

Welterweight, Yaroslav Amosov (25-0)

In Yaroslav Amosov’s stand-up, he combines his kicks and punches extremely well. He moves in and out fluidly with his punches and uses his reach well too. Yaroslav doesn’t have a lot of knockout power, but he is a finisher, finishing all but four of his wins. Amosov also has very good submission skills with nine submission wins, using his long arms mostly for chokes. He also has excellent takedown defense and altogether has gotten better and better. He fights champion Douglas Lima (32-8).

Welterweight, Jason Jackson (14-4)

Jackson is a good striker who is technical with an excellent jab and a crushing right hand. This product out of the former Blackzilians gym is a very good wrestler as well as being very well-rounded. He’s super athletic and seems to get better every time he fights. He already has career wins against Benson Henderson, Jordan Mein, Neiman Gracie, Dhiego Lima, and Kiichi Kunimoto. The last few years Jackson has looked great. He fights Paul Daley (43-17-2).

Featherweight, Aaron Pico (7-3)

Pico has competed in folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling, winning a championship in all three. He has competed in multiple wrestling-based matches and has become very successful. Pico also has a background in boxing, winning many belts and also being named Junior Golden Gloves champion in 2009. Pico has had a few setbacks already but is back on a three-fight win streak. He has excellent boxing techniques with power and precision. Also, he has high-level wrestling. At only 24, he has the overall skill set to be champion one day. He fights Aiden Lee (9-4).

Welterweight, Levan Chokheli (9-0)

Chokheli is a little known but exciting prospect, finishing all nine (ten, but one was overturn to a no contest) of his fights. There’s not really a ton of footage out there on him, but from what can be seen, he’s one to watch out for. Chokheli is an explosive fighter with a lot of power and speed. He’s got good dangerous kickboxing, good hands, and has shown how explosive he can be holding a flying knee knockout. There still needs to be a lot more shown from Levan but he no doubt has the hype behind him. He fights a solid prospect in Kyle Crutchmer (6-0).

Featherweight, Justin Gonzales (11-0)

Undefeated as a pro, Gonzales also went undefeated as an amateur at 8-0. Gonzales has always been an excellent wrestler who was an All-American, but he’s been adding a lot of striking to his resume. J-Train could use better footwork, but he stays aggressive and has good right and left hooks. He really just uses strikes to set up takedowns. Overall, I think he’s good, but there is still room for improvement. He fights Tywan Claxton (6-2).

Open Fighting Championship 5 | Russia | Saturday

Welterweight, Sharaf Davlatmurodov (17-3-1)

Davlatmurodov is a fun fighter with a lot of good experience. He has wins over some good competition and has lost to only solid fighters. On the feet, Davlatmurodov throws a lot of volume throwing with different patterns and mixing it up very well. He has good kickboxing and from the outside has real good long striking. Mixing it up, Davlatmurodov will explode on the hips taking his opponents down. At times he can be too aggressive on the mat but has RNC’s for a reason. He’s really good. Mostly he just needs to improve small things— but the takedown defense should be his biggest concern. He fights Kleber Silva (20-10).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QNF7kTb7sY&t=1s

EFC 86 | South Africa | Saturday

Featherweight, Igeu Kabesa (12-1)

Kabesa’s only loss is to UFC fighter Danny Henry, which was a rematch of their first meeting, which Kabesa won. Of the two, Kabesa has a much higher ceiling. “Smiley” is one of the two best prospects out of South Africa along with Demarte Pena. He is the current EFC Worldwide featherweight champion and is on a four-fight win streak. Kabesa is a very decorated wrestler being a 10-time Wrestling Nationals Champion. He is young and solid everywhere. Kabesa has amazing wrestling and grappling, he can move well on the mat and can reach mount fairly easy. His striking is good too, moving in-and-out with explosive punches quickly and his slips and counters are solid. He fights Reinaldo Ekson (15-5).

Flyweight, Gian Souza (7-0)

Souza is another prospect who has been flying under the radar but has been killing it on the regional scene. He’s an aggressive fighter who is a brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu. Across the span of his seven fights, Gian has been very successful with his wrestling. On the feet, the Brazilian is technical and possesses heavy hands. Training with Bellator MMA’s Pitbull Brothers, Patricio and Patricky Freire, should raise his ceiling even more. He fights Luthando Biko (7-2).

RIZIN 28 | Japan | Saturday

Lightweight, Tofiq Musayev (18-3)

Musayev shocked the world last December when he won the Rizin lightweight grand prix. Among the names he beat in the GP are former UFC fighter Johnny Case and the well-known Patricky Pitbull, which was a big shock. Musayev is good just about everywhere as he has striking with knockout power, combinations, and counter-striking. Along with some decent wrestling and some effective ground-and-pound. A plus to his output is that as the fight goes on he gets better and better. He fights Roberto de Souza (11-1).

Lightweight, Roberto de Souza (11-1)

Souza grew up training in judo and jiu-jitsu and would later become very successful in BJJ. His grappling record (as far as official matches go) is 61-15 with 37 submission wins. He has many achievements in BJJ. While MMA is an entirely different sport, Souza still has got it done on the mat with seven submissions. His striking has been coming around as well, meaning he can get it done on the feet with his hands also. He fights Tofiq Musayev (18-3).

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: Pico Returns, RIZIN in Action appeared first on Cageside Press.

ACA 122 | Belarus | Friday

Featherweight, Elismar Lima (23-7)

The 32-year-old Brazilian Lima has been in the sport of MMA for nine years and despite enduring a lot of setbacks, he’s had more successes. At least in the last five years, he’s only lost to good fighters and on the other side has beat good fighters. Lima is a dangerous striker with a lot of pop in his hands, his forward movement, his accuracy, and his bodywork. His biggest issue is his takedown defense but he does well off his back. He’s competed in some grappling matches but at least in MMA he hasn’t been a submission threat. He’s still a threat overall with good top position and ground and pound. He fights the well-known Levan Makashvili (14-7-1).

PFL #1 | US | Friday

Lightweight, Natan Schulte (20-3)

Schulte came into PFL in mid-2018 with an 11-3 record. Someone that wasn’t a favorite at all, he is now the favorite and the two-time PFL lightweight tournament winner. Schulte isn’t perfect – he gets tired, he gets hit a lot, and his takedown defense isn’t the best. It’s his forward pressure and will that have seen him prevail in his career. What Schulte brings to the table is solid jiu-jitsu and opposing striking. Schulte is always in your face throwing short tight strikes and chopping low calf kicks — that’s one of his better weapons. He’s a good wrestler especially with some solid judo throws. He has it all. Schulte fights the well-traveled Marcin Held (26-7).

Featherweight, Movlid Khaybulaev (15-0-1)

Khaybulaev is a very solid fighter all around, and he is really technical in his stand-up. He throws a lot of spinning attacks, not overdoing it, but that is a good thing. Khaybulaev uses the flying knee often, which he’s used to knock out opponents. With that said, he also has good wrestling; he is able to shoot in for a double leg or he can lift and slam you to the mat. Khaybulaev can usually get the fight down multiple times in a bout. He fights Lazar Stojadinovic (14-7).

Lightweight, Mikhail Odintsov (17-2)

In his last eleven fights, Mikhail Odintsov has only lost one bout and has won now six in a row. On the feet, he throws a lot. He throws a variety of weapons and throws to the legs, body, and head. Odintsov utilizes a lot of feints to time his shots shooting very low double leg takedowns. He has exceptional grappling and fight-ending ground and pound. He fights Akhmet Aliev (19-6).

AKA 114 | Friday | US

Welterweight, AJ Fletcher (7-0)

Since losing two consecutive fights as an amateur in 2018, Fletcher has hit his stride. The Louisiana-born fighter has looked excellent across seven pro bouts. The fighting style of Fletcher slightly resembles Contender Series veteran and UFC fighter Ian Heinisch. Fletcher is a strong wrestler with heavy hands along with good cardio. He fights Ariel Juarez (3-4).

LFA 105 | US | Friday

Strawweight, Svetlana Gotsyk (13-4)

Gotsyk is mainly a wrestler with ferocious ground and pound until she sees an opening for an armbar. On the feet, she stands at 5″2′ making it hard for her to get inside and strike, but that doesn’t affect her being able to stand and brawl, which is where she thrives. She is still really green but is young and getting better with each fight. One of her four losses came early in her career to current UFC strawweight champion Weili Zhang. She fights Pierangela Rodriguez (5-0).

Strawweight, Pierangela Rodriguez (5-0)

Rodriguez is an all-action-type fighter who is a fun one to watch. She does need to work on her takedown defense as that is by far her weakest area. Rodriguez loves to just throw her hands. In her constant rapid attack, she does hit hard and is pretty accurate. Rodriguez is untested and still green but the potential is there. She fights Svetlana Gotsyk (13-4).

Strawweight, Tabatha Ricci (4-0)

Ricci is a judo black belt and a training partner of UFC’s Mackenzie Dern. On the feet, Ricci is a buzzsaw in blitzes dishing out a lot of output. She strikes well to close the distance and once she gets the takedown she’s where she wants to be. Ricci has strong jiu-jitsu, that being her best weapon. You can’t complain about anything she does grappling-wise as she is very good. She fights Shawna Ormsby (2-3).

Light heavyweight, Bruce Souto (13-3)

Souto hasn’t fought in nearly two years and for his return fight, he’s moving up to light heavyweight. Souto was a big welterweight so it makes sense. Souto has fought for M1, ACB, Jungle Fights, and Future FC. He’s on an eight-fight win streak beating some solid dudes. Souto is a good striker with a lot of forward pressure. He does well at coming forward closing the distance and tripping his opponents to the mat. Where he does his best work is on the mat. His ground and pound is good and is just as dangerous as a submission threat. Souto has excellent cardio which sets him apart. He fights Cristhian Torres (15-11).

Welterweight, Mark Martin (5-1)

Mark Martin doesn’t have much MMA experience but is a highly touted wrestler. Some of his accolades including being a Fila junior national champ, a two-time Ohio high school state champ, and a three-time D1 national qualifier from Ohio State University. Martin is obviously a strong wrestler and will decide the wrestle the entire fight. He also strikes his way into wrestling attempts well. Martin has a good submission attack and has gone three rounds already so that looks good. He fights Renato Valente (7-3).

KSW 60 | Poland | Saturday

Featherweight, Vojto Barborik (12-1)

Currently on a ten-fight win streak, Vojto Barborik’s only loss is to a good fighter in Tomas Deak. Barborik is primarily a wrestler who chains together his takedown attempts well. He’s a monster on top with active and heavy ground and pound. He’s very sound with nasty elbows and heavy hammer fists. Barborik doesn’t have many TKO stoppages as nine of his wins are via submission. He fights Krzysztof Klaczek (12-6).

Featherweight, Patryk Kaczmarczyk (6-0)

Kaczmarczyk is one of the many bright young prospects out of Poland. The 23-year-old has a lot of good things going for him. On the feet, Kaczmarczyk is a good counter striker, throws heavy leg kicks, has a dangerous lead flying knee he throws, and throws in combinations. He excels when the fight is in close quarters using excellent offensive and defensive wrestling. Kaczmarczyk is a problem on the mat as his transitions are smooth and is always working to improve his position and finish the fight. He really has it all. He fights Michał Sobiech (4-0).

RCC | Russia | Saturday

Heavyweight, Andre Miranda (7-2)

Miranda started off his career at 0-2 but has hit his stride and won his next seven fights. Miranda utilizes a lot of feints/twitches to keep his opponents guessing. “Monstro” has solid hand speed, often firing right down the middle. He also throws some heavy kicks mixing it up well. He tends to get drawn into brawls and he’s just relentless with his hands. He fights Alexander Podmarev (9-4).

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: PFL is Back! appeared first on Cageside Press.

ACA 117 | Russia | Friday

Featherweight, Leonardo Limberger (14-1)

Limberger is well-rounded but he may be better on the feet. He’s shown one-punch knockout power but his high volume output is where he excels. Limberger throws one-twos from a variety of angles, almost never throwing just one strike, and mixes in kicks beautifully. He is an excellent range fighter with great footwork and perfectly-timed counters. He uses leg kicks as one of his main weapons and does a good job switching to spinning kicks that are neither sloppy nor telegraphed at all. Limberger has underrated wrestling, as he has great timing on his double leg and he sets it up and executes perfectly. On the mat, you can’t ask for much more: he possesses good BJJ on top or off of his back. He fights Dzhikhad Yunusov (17-5).

Light-heavyweight, Grigor Matevosyan (8-2)

Matevosyan is an underrated 205’er born in Armenia. He dropped his first two pro fights and since then has won his next eight contests. Matevosyan will march forward with heavy attacks. He has good kickboxing with chopping leg kicks and will go high as well. He’s really good in the clinch and very good when breaking from the clinch. Matevosyan does need work with takedown defense but at least he’s always been able to fight his way back. He has a good gas tank which has made a big difference in his career. He fights Artur Astakhov (19-6).

Heavyweight, Alikhan Vakhaev (10-2)

Vakhaev is a talented heavyweight at only 27-years-old. He a striker who understands distance management. He throws good long punches and kicks and does an excellent job coming in with strikes and knees in the clinch. He’s shown to be a well-equipped counter striker making opponents pay when they rush in on him. Vakhaev stays calm and picks his shots while conserving his energy well. He fights Roggers Souza (10-2).

Featherweight, Askhab Zulaev (8-0)

Zulaev is a legit up-and-coming Russian prospect. On the feet, he is excellent at distance using a range of kicks, even spinning kicks, often. The Russian is a skilled kickboxer with explosiveness, falling in love with his flying knee. Some other nice qualities he has are solid cardio given the pace he throws at, and excellent takedown defense. Zulaev has some decent wrestling, but his ground and pound is cutting with the elbows he throws. He fights Ramazan Kishev at ACA 117.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp5yzQsqNUQ&t=1s&ab_channel=UFC

Welterweight, Ayndi Umakhanov (10-0)

Umakhanov wasn’t someone I was all to familiar with until recently. He has an impressive record and has beat good fighters in the last three years. He’s got a decent ground game and a good wrestling base but is a much more confident striker. Umakhanov fights long. He has a good jab, uses a lot of teep kicks, and a sniper-like one-two. Umakhanov has excellent hands. He fights Zhorabek Tesheboev (7-1).

Babilon MMA 19 | Poland | Friday

Bantamweight, Róża Gumienna (3-0)

Gumienna is only three fights into her career and is already 31-years-old but has tons of experience in kickboxing. She’s a gold medalist of the K1 World Cup in 2014, 2015, and 2017. She is also a WAKO Polish championship in K1 and a lot of good experience as an amateur. So far she has finished all three of her opponents in MMA using her muay thai, kick boxing, long strikes, and range. She fights Ekaterina Shakalova (3-1).

Titan FC 67 | US | Friday

Bantamweight, Danny Sabatello (9-1)

Sabatello, with an impressive 9-1 record in MMA, made his name in wrestling. He’s a three-time NCAA Championships qualifier and a two-time 141-pound Big Ten Championship winner. He’s an insanely good wrestler with frantic forward pressure, and he has a high pace he puts on until the finish or a decision. He would be a huge problem for a lot of guys in the UFC. He fights Da’Mon Blackshear (8-3).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2nb9ccQ9dg&ab_channel=WORLDMMAFIGHTING

LFA 99 | US | Friday

Lightweight, Brant Moore (8-1)

Moore first jumped out to me when he beat a good prospect in Nation Gibrick a year ago. He has experience in grappling and as a pro boxer. His last three fights have been good showings for LFA. Moore is good on the feet but his grappling is game-changing and has solid wrestling. He fights Ago Huskić (8-2).

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Tale of the Tape

Fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia
Age: 29
Weightclass: Bantamweight
Height: 5’5”
Training out of DagFighter
Record: 14-0
6 KO/TKOs
2 Submissions’

Striking/Kickboxing: A

Kerimov is an all volume striker/kickboxer who is going to overwhelm guys. With his hands, he a good striker letting opponents just walk into a combination. He throws a sharp one-two and is always mixing it up the angles. Kerimov does have some power behind his hands when he commits to it. His legs are his main weapon on the feet and maybe his most useful weapon in his toolbox. Kerimov has a very busy kicking attack and complex kicking style. The Russian will kick the legs, the body, go to the head, and also loves to use spinning kicks, especially to the midsection. Kerimov will spin to the body so much he will surprise his opposition and throw the spinning back fist instead. Just his flow on the feet makes him really good.

Movement: A-

Kerimov does have good movement but what really stands out is his quickness and vision. He’s so quick at getting off his shots and getting right out of the way. He can plant his feet to land the one-two and be on the other side of the cage in a split second.

Clinch: C+

There is nothing too important that stands out to give a good assessment in this category. Kerimov does have good control and from time to time you will see him let loose with some knees.

Wrestling: A

As good as his striking/kickboxing is his 14-0 record wouldn’t be there without the way he’s wrestled. Kerimov isn’t like most Dagestani wrestlers who will chain wrestle mainly. Instead, almost every time his takedowns are off of setups. Better than anyone, Kerimov will throw a kick and immediately shoot and complete a takedown. When he lands a glancing head kick and follows up with a takedown, the transition is incredibly smooth. For more on how good his wrestling is check out this in-depth breakdown from Down 4 Rounds here.

Grappling: C+

Frequently in every fight and in every round, Rustam Kerimov gets the fight to the mat. With that said he’s not much of a grappler. Usually, when Kerimov gets takedowns he’s quickly back up to his feet. He definitely is capable on the mat in other areas, as he has top-notch ground and pound and scrambles very well.

Cardio: B

Kerimov has gone to the scorecards on six different occasions. He’s gone in into championship rounds going all five rounds twice. Into the fourth and final round, Kerimov does slow. With his work rate, there is no shame in that, and he is still dangerous. For three rounds though he has excellent cardio and his pressure will break opponents.

Defense: B-

Kerimov has the “0” on his record so that leads one to conclude that his takedown defense is pretty good. He has been taken down though, and his takedown defense has been the biggest question. That said, even on his back, he has never been in any danger if my memory is correct. Kerimov has taken some good shots on the chin as well but it’s held up thus far. His defense is hardly tested cause his offense is so dominating.

Overall: A

Kerimov is one of the best prospects out of Russia and his record affirms that. He’s beat Abdul-Rakhman Dudaev, Oleg Borisov, Takeya Mizugaki, Tural Ragimov, Alexander Peduson, and Andrey Goncharov. Those fighters combined have a record of 117-38-3. Where Kerimov is so challenging is his wrestling but it’s complimented and set up with his striking/kickboxing.

Kerimov is very good at letting foes come forward and then surprises them with the level change to get the takedown. He fights behind his kicks which is what he sets his takedowns up with and how he controls the pace. Don’t sleep on his hands though because if you do you’ll be waking up not knowing what happened. More imposing than his power is his hand speed and movement.

What he does lack in is control on the mat. He can get multiple takedowns a fight but just doesn’t keep it there. He does have two submissions but those were seven years ago. Kerimov does bring some nasty ground and pound to the table though.

Kerimov is the real deal and the competition he’s already beat shows to me he can jump right into a promotion like the UFC or Bellator and do very well.

The post Prospect Watch: Russia’s Rustam Kerimov appeared first on Cageside Press.

Tale of the Tape

Fighting out of Nalchik, Russia
Age: 23
Weightclass: Featherweight
Height: 5’8”
Training out of Bastion
Record: 10-1
7 KO/TKOs

Striking/Kickboxing: A+

Tumenov is a high-caliber striker/boxer. Tumenov is an in your face pressure fighter who throws nothing but fire in his hands. Out of his orthodox stance, a lot of his primary shots come from his left hand. The left straight/hook, left hook to the body, left uppercut, and the jab are all money. He’s incredibly dangerous with both hands even though his left hand is his lead hand. Tumenov is never gun-shy; he is constantly letting his hands fly with combinations. He’s really good at cutting opponentss off and landing strikes while headhunting. He’ll headhunt quite often but his bodywork and mid combinations do quite a number on his foes. Tumenov compliments his striking with wonderful head movement slipping and returning. As a striker Tumenov is high-level.

Movement: A

Tumenov stomps forward cutting the cage in half, and will chase down opponents. He’s still very light on his feet exploding in with volume and exiting away from any damage. Tumenov is a pocket striker and he’s able to let loose and move out of the pocket effortlessly.

Clinch: B-

Tumenov is not really someone that initiates the clinch being solely a striker. While entering the pocket he will grab the Muay Thai plum to land knees. He is knowledgeable when it comes to control and positioning. More defensive in the clinch then offense-minded.

Wrestling: B-

Tumenov has some underrated wrestling. It’s hard to rate him too highly as a wrestler however, because he’s not the one to cut angles or chain wrestle if needed. His takedowns come because his opponents are so worried about his hands they don’t expect him to shoot for takedowns. Having the ability to mix takedowns in is a valuable skill to have.

Grappling: C

Bibert hasn’t shown any grappling nor has he really ever had to use it. The few times he’s ended up on his back he wasn’t there long. The times he’s been on top he’s had no desire to pass guard or improve position.

Cardio: A-

Tumenov has gone the distance four times and went five rounds once and fought at the same pace the duration of the fight. Tumenov doesn’t throw with any wasted movement just staying technical, and doesn’t really use any high energy attacks. He has planted his feet and set in the pocket and unloaded but his cardio held up.

Defense: A-

The Russian has all-around excellent defense. Tumenov will at times stand and bang getting hit in exchanges. More times than not with his footwork he’s right out of the way and his head is hardly ever sitting on the center-line. He’s been taken down a few times but has never spent a good amount of time off his back. Tumenov has really good takedown defense at distance with good vision and is excellent at timing his sprawls. Against the cage, Tumenov fights the wrists well and is good at fighting for underhooks and circling out.

Overall: A

Tumenov is a legit prospect who is destined for great things in this sport. The last name is familiar and that’s because he’s the younger cousin of former UFC fighter and ACA welterweight champion Albert Tumenov. Albert throws a lot more kicks than Bibert but both Tumenovs have amazing striking. Bibert was a highly touted and successful amateur boxer that transitioned to MMA right away. Bibert is a technical but lethal striker.

Tumenov is first and foremost a striker but he’ll surprise opponentss and shoot for takedowns. He can complete takedowns, but he tends to get right back up where he is more comfortable. Bibert is also really good at catching opponents’ kicks and dumping them on the mat.

Tumenov started off fighting other young, hungry, talented prospects out of Russia. While he did fall short once it was to a good fighter Timur Khizriev, and it was a close fight. Since signing with ACA last year he’s gone 3-0 for the promotion. He’s beat Kyle Reyes, Alexander Matmuratov, and Alexey Polpudnikov. My projection is he’s a future ACA champion. A fight between him and Felipe Froes would be extremely interesting.

The post Prospect Watch: Russia’s Bibert Tumenov appeared first on Cageside Press.

Age: 25-years-old
From: Grozny, Russia (born in Czech Republic)
Height: 5’9”
Weight class: Lightweight
Record: 16-1 (2 NC)

Who is Yusup Raisov?

Born in 1995 on the 22nd of June, Raisov is from the Czech Republic but has lived in Russia for years. Jumping right into it as a professional, Raisov made his pro debut in March 2014. Before signing with Absolute Championship Berkut full-time in mid-2015 Raisov fought for M-1 Global twice. In his two M-1 fights he was awarded the submission of the night. Raisov had his first chance of gold in December of 2016 against Marat Balaev. Raisov was expected to win but lost a close fight on the scorecards.

After a pair of wins follwoing his loss to Balaev the pair were set to rematch in December 2017. Balaev though would be forced to pull out and Raisov beat Alexander Peduson for the interim featherweight title. Five months later they finally rematched and Raisov won via a first-round stoppage putting a stamp on the rivalry. After that fight, Raisov decided to leave 145 behind him as he moved up to lightweight for the foreseeable future. Now since moving to 155, Raisov is 3-0 but on a 7-fight win streak combined.

Striking

Yusuf is a very technical striker and being so technical it makes you think he’s had some sort of background in boxing. He throws a range of combinations from different angles. In combinations, Yusuf is usually throwing up to four strikes at a time which is sensational. Not just headhunting Raisov is good at going after the body mid-combination. He’s more of a pocket striker unloading tight punches from a short distance which does make him much harder to read. Grade: A

Kickboxing

The Russian is good at mixing in leg kicks in combinations mixing them at the end of punches and sometimes will throw punches after a kick. He usually picks his shots with his kicks but will throw with some flash using spinning kicks. When he spins he does usually connect and he has a finish from a spinning kick to the liver. Not someone that will blow you away with his kicks but it is a nice tool in his toolset. Grade: B-

Clinch

Not spending too much time in the clinch, Raisov does hold his own everywhere including there. Being a strong wrestler he uses his wrestling against the cage to lock his hands together to get the fight to the mat. Grade: C

Movement

Raisov doesn’t have fancy footwork but cuts the cage in half on his opponent. He’ll cut his opponent off moving side to side making the cage smaller. He’s got quick feet as well blitzing in into his way to wrestle. Grade: B-

Wrestling

The wrestling of Raisov is his best weapon by a large margin and that says something. Like a lot of Russian fighters, Raisov has high-level top-notch wrestling. Everything in this department Raisov does perfectly. If he doesn’t secure the initial takedown he’s good at chaining attempts together getting the fight to the mat the second time. Once the “Wolf” gets his hands clasped he is 100% getting that takedown. Raisov isn’t someone that utilizes trips to get the fight down as he will change levels to secure double legs and singles legs with just classic wrestling skills. Grade: A+

Ground game

Raisov is an animal on top, especially with his ground and pound. Even in full guard top position, Raisov is very good at landing damage. Raisov has educated ground and pound going to the body and head. He stays active putting on damage with punches and elbows while easily passing guard transitioning into dominant positions. Raisov at times will get into the crucifix position and unload with elbows/punches. His ground and pound is one of his better weapons but he has seven submissions to his name as well. He’s excellent at giving no space on top being all over every scramble taking the back in an instant. Raisov is a huge threat at grabbing the neck weather if that’s on the back or locking in an arm-triangle. With a great wrestling base, a dominant ground game is what you want and Raisov has exactly that. Grade: A+

Cardio

Raisov has gone the distance six times so he has that cage time experience. Going three rounds is no problem for Raisov doing it many times and he has the same pace throughout. That’s pretty impressive given the pace Raisov fights at. Grade: A

Defense

Raisov has never been finished as his lone loss is via going to the scorecards. Of anywhere his defense has shown to maybe struggle a little bit, it would be is his takedown defense. He’s been taken down many times and his first fight against Marat Balaev he ket Marat basically take him down at will. Raisov though is never content staying on his back, always working back to his feet and always in general moving off his back. He’s also been dropped before but I believe he is the only fighter I’ve see dropped about three times in a round who still won the round. He’s been caught in the pocket a few times but has been able to recover quite quickly. I would like to see Raisov move his head a bit more when he sets his feet. Still, Raisov has good enough defense and has only had one fight he really struggled defensively — against Balaev, but Raisov beat him in the rematch by submission in the first round.

Fighter comparison: Kevin Lee

Overall thought: Russia is absolutely loaded with talent outside the UFC like Rustam Kerimov, Alexander Shabliy, Vladimir Mineev, and many more. The one that stands out to me out of all Russian prospects is Grozny’s Yusup Raisov. Raisov has some of the best wrestling in Russia and improved boxing. His only loss is to Marat Balaev which really in hindsight looked like an off night as when they rematched Raisov won in the first. To have the success Raisov has had especially in Russia and for a promotion like ACA/ACB says a lot about his talent. Fighting for ACA/ACB he’s shone at both 145 and 155 beating nothing but stiff competition. In fact, his last seven fights the combined record of those opponents is 124-38 at the time they fought. Not only do I think he’s the best prospect out of Russia he may be in my opinion the best prospect worldwide at the moment.

The post MMA Prospect of the Month: Yusup Raisov appeared first on Cageside Press.

Which means, as always, there’s a good batch of MMA prospects to check out. So let’s get on with the show, starting with Kazakhstan, where the UFC will debut later this year.

ACA 104 | Friday | Kazakhstan

Light-heavyweight, Muslim Magomedov (6-0)

Muslim Magomedov had a successful amateur career winning the WMMAA 2018 European Championship. In only his fifth pro bout, he dominated former UFC fighter Chris Camozzi. Despite not offering much on the feet, Magomed is an excellent wrestler. His timing on his shots is fine and the way he shoots so low makes his execution near-perfect. The work he does on top is his best aspect. He has good top position and his ground and pound is strong, active, and he lands hard.

OFS 14 | Friday | Russia

Featherweight: Aliyar Sarkerov (36-3)

Aliyar Sarkerov is good everywhere. On the feet, he is very flashy with kicks and body attacks. His takedown ability is perfect, he sets up his entrances well, and he can use a variety of takedowns including trips, single legs, hip throws, and double legs. In general, his takedown ability is where it needs to be. On the mat is where he is spectacular. He is a great danger when it comes to grabbing the neck and putting the fight away. He fights Lucas Oliveira (20-6).

Invicta FC | Friday | US

Bantamweight: Lisa Verzosa (5-0)

Lisa Spangler Verzosa has toughness, heart, and tenacity and you can’t teach that to a fighter. She is exceptionally smart in the clinch attacking the body-head. She has strong wrestling she will use at times. Verzosa is just a really gritty fighter. She fights Julija Stoliarenko (8-3-1) who is 4-0 since her TUF run. This is for the Invicta FC bantamweight title (vacant).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhUQJVeFjiM

LFA 83 | Friday | US

Welterweight: Matt Dixon (8-0)

Matt Dixon is a good boxer who displays a solid jab and a check left hook. He does a good job going to the body-head with his hands ripping with good placement. His striking wouldn’t be as good without his excellent kickboxing and vice-versa. On the feet, his kickboxing is arguably his best aspect. The wrestling from Dixon is his best attribute. Dixon has an excellent double leg takedown that he times so well. He will wait till his opponent comes in before he changes levels using their momentum against them to get the easy dump takedown. For more on Dixon check out my prospect of the month piece I did on him in February. He fights Justin Patterson (11-5).

Flyweight: Hailey Cowan (4-1)

Hailey Cowan has an extensive background in gymnastics and was very accomplished at Baylor University. She won a few tumbling national titles and is a two-time All-American. After coming up short in her pro-MMA debut, she then went on to win her next four fights looking impressive in the process. She’s a big and strong 125er who is well-rounded, holding a rear-naked choke and a highlight-reel head kick knockout. She fights Brittney Cloudy (2-1).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVIM4kb2CnM

Eternal MMA 52 | Saturday | Australia

Flyweight: Chelsea Hackett (2-0-1)

Chelsea Hackett comes from a Muay Thai background as she’s a two-time world Muay Thai champion. In her MMA career, the girls so far have tried mainly to put her on her back. However Hackett has shown good takedown defense and is the one getting takedowns herself. She is much better on the feet, notably in the clinch, with good kickboxing, and combos from the outside. She fights Rhiannon Thompson (5-3).

Lightweight: Josh Togo (8-3)

A few years ago, Josh Togo was on a three-fight skid. Now he’s won his last four fights (also a NC) and is the current Eternal MMA lightweight champ. Togo doesn’t have a lot of power but has the technical ability on the outside to work opponents. He will pick his foes apart with lead leg kicks, lead uppercuts, and jabs mixing it up. He fights former UFC fighter Ben Wall (10-7-1).

Thunderstrike Fight League 20 | Saturday | Poland

Middleweight: Cezary Kesik (11-0)

Cezary Kesik is very underrated and is one of the best, if not the best, Polish prospects out there. Kesik is exciting, bringing an aggressive kickboxing style with a lot of power in his hands with seven finishes by way of KO/TKO. If needed, Kesik will take the fight down where he is really talented with position control and transitions. He fights Georgi Lobzhanidze (10-4) who is a good test of Kesik’s abilities.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MXMT0UJRXo&t=493s

Cage Warriors 112 |  Saturday | UK

Bantamweight: Jack Cartwright (7-0)

Jack Cartwright had a huge 2019 getting four wins, signing with Cage Warriors, and winning the Cage Warriors title. Cartwright has been wrestling since the age of five and has a background as a former ABA boxer. Cartwright just recently began showing his striking; with his power and timing he’s just as good as he is as a grappler. The Brit is a good wrestler and more of an exceptional grappler. He’s got a very dangerous guillotine and d’arce he’s finished with a few times. He fights Manuel Bilić (15-6).

Welterweight: Madars Fleminas (7-0)

Madars Fleminas on the feet is really good, especially in the clinch with his knees. Still, you might expect him to be better since he has a long-range at 6’2″ — but he is getting better. He’s superb on the mat in top position with active ground and pound. Fleminas has solid cardio as well and shows improvement in each fight. He could have a bright future if he learns how to put it all together. He fights Adam Proctor (11-1).

Welterweight: Adam Proctor (11-1)

Adam Proctor is still an unknown prospect and part of that is because he still hasn’t had that one big statement win. He’s beat good fighters but I think his lack of killer instinct has canceled that out a bit. Proctor is well-rounded being able to strike and wrestle. He’s a better wrestler who times takedowns well. He could be more aggressive on top though. Proctor has good distance management with a laser right hands and good kicks. He has the skills to go a long way but needs some sharpening around the edges. He fights Madars Fleminas (7-0).

Lightweight: Paul Hughes (4-0)

Paul Hughes has looked stellar in his pro career and although he only has four fights he has the skills of a established fighter. Hughes has two TKO’s and two submissions as he’s very well-rounded. On the feet, Hughes has good boxing. The accuracy and shot selection is there and so is some big power. He’s an even better wrestler and has exceptional grappling. Hughes looks like the real deal. He fights Youri Panada (4-1).

GMC 24 | Saturday | Germany

Featherweight: Saba Bolaghi (10-1-1)

Saba Bolaghi is a decorated wrestler listing achievements such as the youth German Freestyle Wrestling Championship, Junior World Championships, and the Bronze medal at the Adults European Championships. He is very physically strong and executes his level-changes well. When he gets the fight to the mat, he is dangerous with his chokes having won four that way. His striking isn’t much but he makes up with for it with speed and once he is in the distance, the takedowns come naturally. He fights Felipe Maia (9-3).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfQx2Bioo4k&t=2s

Summit FC 34 | Saturday | US

Welterweight: Jaleel Willis (11-2)

Jaleel Willis is quite athletic and a top-notch wrestler. On top, he has the control, the transitions, and the ground-and-pound to excel. Willis is everything you want in a fighter, especially in terms of wrestling. On the feet, he does hold a lot of power in his hands. Willis still has some things to learn but is a bright prospect. He fights  James Horne (4-3)

The post Weekly MMA Prospect Report: Top Prospects From Around The World appeared first on Cageside Press.