We did a little Q&A and a closer look with a fighter who will hopefully get the call from Dana White and co. soon.

Getting into MMA

“I was flipping through channels one day and saw Ken Shamrock vs Tito. I knew who Ken Shamrock was from WWE as a kid but I’d never seen him fighting in MMA before. I didn’t even know what MMA was. I was hooked ever since at the age 12” – Nkuta on his introduction into MMA.

Amateur career

Nkuta started his MMA journey at the end of 2016. Nkuta did the right thing with the amount of fights he took and the number of years spent as a amateur. He competed for nearly three years and had five fights. Of those five fights, he went 5-0 with two finishes. His last two fights he won the Triton Fights and the NYFE flyweight titles.

“Not to be cocky but just that I can hang with the top guys in the world.” – Nkuta on his biggest takeaway from his amateur career.

Pro debut

Nkuta had an incredible opportunity to kick of his pro career fight for Bellator. He fought Adrian Haly who was 1-0 as a pro and had twice the amount of amateur experience. CFFC debut

Nkuta had a breakout performance here. Yes, he fought for Bellator but the fight wasn’t televised. This fight was against Ben Coyle who was making his pro debut but had a 6-1 amateur record. Nkuta treated him as an amateur. “Turbo” used his wrestling and grappling to dominate this fight. He showcases a little striking throwing in twos, going to the body, and moving in and out. Nkuta when he got the takedown was all over Coyle. Coyle couldn’t even move because Nkuta was following him around just floating on top. After a dominant round one Nkuta won with a kimura in round two. It was a fantastic introduction into the pro ranks.

“Having my first fight for Bellator was a great intro to the feeling of being on a big show. Dealing with level of professionalism and the bright lights was cool man. Had me nervous for sure but when I made that walk I felt comfortable all over again. As far as the fight though. I prepared well but had a bad weight cut. I was a young man, and didn’t have the knowledge at time. So I was dominant, showed I’m high level, but I still didn’t put on the performance I wanted to.” – Nkuta on pro debut

CFFC title fight

After a 2-0 start in his pro career, CFFC saw enough to give him an early title fight. It was against Albert Trujillo who was an established fighter and the champ at the time. It was a big step up in competition for Nkuta.

Nkuta treated this fight as if he were the champion because he dominated this fight bell to bell. Although he did score two knockdowns it was all wrestling and control from Nkuta. Nkuta showcased top-notch wrestling. Not only the speed but Nkuta was chain wrestling, cutting the corner, running the pipe, and created a lot of knee traps to get the takedowns. When I say he was all over Trujillo it was like a glue trap. He was all over him and as Trujillo got back up he went right back down. Impressively this was the first time Nkuta went into championship rounds and fought at the same pace as he did in round one.

“First… I don’t think people realize how good Alberto is. He’s high level. Till this day he’s the highest level guy I’ve fought. Good technique, was in insane shape, mentally tough. He’s coming out of Alliance MMA so he’s part of a high level camp. I had a great camp but fighting him almost brought the best out of me. As far as what it felt like to win? Winning that fight is another reason why I’m as confident as I am. My third pro fight. I get multiple knockdowns, (one of them being a spinning elbow) endless takedowns and fought hard for 20 minutes. And then spit bars? I always have a lot to work on but after that fight, I felt like I could beat anyone in the world. Especially at Flyweight.”

5-0

To close out 2021 Nkuta had a 5-0 record defending his CFFC flyweight title twice. In his fight with Miguel Junior Diaz he frankly just beat the tar out of him. Nkuta used footwork, speed, and technical wrestling ability to get Diaz down every round. More than the wrestling it was the top pressure and the relentless ground and pound. He even busted up Diaz in the fight. He got into the crucifix position a few times and that’s where he got the TKO stoppage in round four. All the damage just added up and Nkuta scored his first TKO stoppage as a pro. In his fight with Jason Eastman, it was tougher but still a one-sided fight. Nkuta had to go through a few submissions but he was one step ahead in every spot. He showed a little more striking with some bodywork and was finding his rhythm. It was again his wrestling and dominant grappling that won him the fight.

Contender Series Rumor and Retirement

Nkuta was ready for a UFC opportunity as a reigning champion on UFC Fight Pass. In his fight with Eastman Nkuta ended up breaking his hand that required surgery. Unfortunately for him it was around the same there was rumors of a Contender Series fight. It being so bad of an injury Nkuta had no choice but to sit on the shelf for a bit. Having to wait for surgery his hand ended up healing improperly. They had to re-break it to actually fix it and Nkuta was in a cast for months. Not to mention all the rehab he had to do once he got the cast off. With the injury and the trouble getting fights Nkuta took it as a sign to walk away from the sport.

Once Nkuta got the cast off he was back in the gym helping guys like Aljamain Sterling, Merab Dvalishvili, Matt Frevola and others. With encouragement from his manager and teammates, Nkuta decided to step back in the cage after over a year and a half layoff.

Comeback Fight

For coming back from a long layoff and a gruesome injury Nkuta was back to his dominant ways. His opponent, Cleveland McLean is a known veteran with a lot of experience. It was all Nkuta in this fight treating the vet like a rookie. Nkuta used his wrestling and brick-like top control to cruise to a submission victory. In this fight there were a ton of moments where he was in a dominant position. He landed a lot of GNP and went for submission but it was a good fight to shake off any ring rust he had.

At this point, Nkuta should’ve been considered for the UFC. Nkuta was 6-0 with a few good wins. He was already wanted by the UFC at a point so it was time for a straight UFC contract.

Bantamweight Debut

Nkuta took on a fight up a weight class at Bantamweight against Hunter Starner. Although not experienced Starner is a strong wrestler with a lot of talent. Nkuta was significantly smaller but that didn’t make him shy away from fighting his fight. Nkuta still used his wrestling and did get a few takedowns as well. We actually saw Starner takedown Nkuta. From there Nkuta was never complacent and did a great job scrambling back up. His striking also looked very good moving in and out, going to the body, and letting his hands fly in short bursts. It was a fight proving again he’s a UFC-level fighter.

“First I gotta give a shout out to Hunter Starner. He was tough, skilled and super strong. Like I’m talking farmer strength strong. He took on a very experienced opponent when he didn’t have to at all. Biggest takeaway for me is that I can handle the mental part of the game and that I truly am ready to fight anyone at any time at any place. A lot of people talk about it but some are actually about it. Fighting a week and a half notice fighting up a weight class… A lot of people would never. Especially with everything riding on the line like it was for me. I had everything to lose. Undefeated record, reputation in the sport. It was a risky scenario. But I’ll fight anyone, anytime at any weight. Cause that’s that the best do. I am that and I showed that. As far as what the takeaway should be for everyone else… Stop sleeping on my striking.”

Nkuta is 100% ready to make the jump to the UFC. He’s at the point where it’s hard for him to get fights and he has to move up to bantamweight to actually get fights. He’s 7-0 as a pro and 5-0 as an amateur. He’s never lost a fight and I don’t think has ever lost a round. His wrestling is high-level. Although his striking isn’t on display as much as his wrestling it’s looked good. He has the speed, shot placement, and his hands are clean. With his wrestling his jiu-jitsu is lockdown. Nkuta is relentless with his pressure, GNP, and transitions. He’s so light on top but is also glue-like giving no space. You don’t want Nkuta on the inside because he will bully you around.

When Nkuta beat Alberto Trujillo he proved he was UFC level then. Also being a champion for a promotion like CFFC that’s on UFC Fight Pass is a big deal. Not just one title defense but two. Nkuta can even take fights on short notice not in his weight class and still perform at a high level. Training with the likes of Merab Dvalishvili, Matt Frevola, and Aljamain Sterling at LAW MMA makes it even more puzzling why he isn’t in the UFC. I easily see Nkuta as a top 15 flyweight. He’s 28 in his prime now and still the best is yet to come with him. Stop playing around and call him Dana.

Nkuta’s message to Dana White

“In the ring, on the mic, and even in the booth, no one can talk the talk like me. No one can walk the walk like me right now. I’m a star. I’m the best Flyweight in the world. I’m the best in the business. I’m the best for business and I’m ready. So let’s do business bossman!”

Comments from the media and teammates

“The type of talent and the type of work ethic Phumi has, it can’t help but make everyone around him want to be great as well. Iron sharpens iron and he’s as sharp as it gets.” – Teammate, Dennis Buzukja

“They don’t call him Turbo for no reason. Phumi is FAST, accurate and strong everywhere. He can compete with anyone in the UFC right now, and I’m truly surprised he hasn’t been signed yet.” – Teammate, Matt Frevola

“Absolutely, there’s probably nothing I could say about phumi people haven’t heard already; I just genuinely believe he’s the best flyweight on the planet right now. I think Phumi’s a Ferrari and the UFC wants to treat him like a Toyota Corolla; if they put him in there right now and see what he’s capable of I think they would do tremendous business with one another. He’s skilled in the cage, on the mic, and the most important part is he’s just a good dude. In my opinion, he’s simply the best flyweight walking on earth right now, and it’d be a tragedy if he didn’t get his opportunity to prove it.” – Teammate/Coach, Steve Lee

“The perfect way to describe Phumi is “Best kept secret” or “champion behind closed doors” since the ufc is slow to sign up and let the inevitable unfold which is him becoming a world champion” – Teammate, Nazim Sadykhov.

“At this very moment in time, MMA prospect Phumi Nkuta could very well compete with any UFC-ranked flyweight. Put him on the top of the list of prospects who should already be in the UFC. Training at LAW MMA with some of the UFC’s biggest stars, Nkuta’s future is certainly bright & hopefully he can kickstart his UFC journey sooner rather than later.” – Media member, Jake Noecker

“Phumi Nkuta has been one of the top talents at 125 for a long time. I know he got away from the sport for almost 1.5 years but even before that, he should’ve had a chance to fight on DWCS. In my opinion, he should be signed right away. His striking and ground game are both very solid plus he trains with former champion Aljamain Sterling and future champion Merab Dvalishvili. For me, it is a no-brainer to sign Nkuta. He is 28-years-old and will only be better in the next few years. Plus the fact that he is undefeated brings a little more hype to the whole situation in my opinion. Sign him and give him his deserved opportunity, please!!” – Media member, Marcel Dorff

“I had the pleasure of watching Phumi Nkuta fight in person back in December. Going up a weight class and accepting the fight on just one week’s notice, Phumi scored a clean decision victory. His past opponents hold a combined record of 35-16, and his cardio has proven to hold up late into fights. Phumi isn’t just the best fighter out of LAW MMA who isn’t in the UFC, he may very well be the best fighter currently unsigned. In a weight class that needs new blood, Phumi could very well be a key addition to the top 15 of 125 pounds and make a run for the title. Signing Phumi outright is a move long overdue, and making him fight on the Contender Series would be a disservice to him and the promotion. Sign him Dana!” – Media member, Patrick Danna

“Nkuta might not have the highlight-reel finishes that would catch the UFC’s eye but his performances should speak for themselves. Since returning from his injury, he’s picked up right where he left off despite stating how hard it has been to get opponents on the regional scene. He might not be the kind of guy that the Contender Series is looking for but when you look at someone who could step up to the UFC and compete at a high-level from the jump, he ticks a lot of boxes. He certainly has an aura of confidence about him and when you consider the level of training partners he shares the mats with, it’s hard to imagine that next level of competition being something he can’t adapt to.” – Media member, Kyle Dimond

The post Call Him, Dana: Phumi Nkuta appeared first on Cageside Press.

Brave CF 43 | Thursday | Bahrain

Featherweight, Akhmed Shervaniev (14-1-1)

Shervaniev is a part of Akhmat Fight Club with the likes of many top Russian prospects. Shervaniev has four submission wins but he really wants to keep the fight on the feet and his excellent takedown defense really helps that. On the feet, you can always see him switching stances and throwing more than one strike. While he can be too patient at times, he is very accurate and quick. I really like everything Shervaniev does and I think he has a bright future. He fights Arman Popal (5-2).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Syx_APlsvLs&ab_channel=FightClubAkhmat

Bantamweight, Bernardo Sopai (8-1)

Sopai is a product out of Allstars Gym Sweeden which is a fantastic team. Crazy enough, Sopai is only 20-years-old and a complete fighter already. On the feet, he has a muay thai background. The Albanian is a solid striker with excellent kicks and slick short combinations. He doesn’t really have knockout power but does throw a lot of volume and gives a lot of different looks. I’ve been impressed with the wrestling from the setups, speed, and his ability to slam guys to the mat. Sopai has three wins by submission and overall his grappling could be where he’s best at. This kid is a major problem with a bright future. He fights Gerson Pereira (12-7).

Featherweight, Anzor Abdulkhozhaev (10-1)

Anzor Abdulkhozhaev has just one loss as a pro; that was a little over four years ago. Now, Abdulkhozhaev is on a seven-fight win streak. On the feet, Anzor is a distance striker throwing at his preferred range. He throws a good one-two and good right hand. He frequently switches stances to give different looks. Anzor has some decent wrestling as well and has a dangerous guillotine choke. His takedown defense needs work though moving forward. He fights Soheil Davoodi (8-1).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU2vzHgo5R4&ab_channel=FightClubAkhmat

Bellator 247 | Thurday | Italy

Middleweight, Norbert Novenyi (4-0)

Novenyi is only 4-0 as a pro but had some experience as an amateur at 3-0 as well. He is a Hungarian, but he trains out of a top camp in the UK, London Shootfighters. Novenyi is primarily wrestler that has slick jiu-jitsu with three career submissions. He hasn’t stayed on the feet too much but has some nice footwork and a good kicking attack along with nicely cut angles showing his training with the London Shootfighters. The cardio does worry me so it will be interesting to see the longer his fight goes. He fights Laïd Zerhouni (7-5).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySVhG3EkXz0&ab_channel=FIGHTsportTV

Flyweight, Denise Kielholtz (5-2)

Despite only a 5-2 MMA record Denise Kielholtz is well-accomplished in other combat sports. She has a ton of experience in kickboxing (17-2) including winning the Bellator flyweight championship. Also, Denise has spent some time in Judo being a member of the 2008 Dutch Team Championships. Despite being well versed on the feet Kielholtz in her MMA career has three submission wins. She’s a good counter striker clipping her opponent coming in and finishing on the mat. She fights Kate Jackson (11-4-1).

Welterweight, Justin Burlinson (5-0)

Burlinson may be only 5-0 as a pro but this 23-year-old has a lot of experience as he went 15-1 as an amateur. Burlinson is a well-rounded talent that needs a little sharpening around the edges with takedown defense and at times, his striking. He has knockout power and good striking fundamentals but is better on the ground with effective jiu-jitsu. He’s a big threat with submissions holding thirteen career wins by that method. He fights Bobby Pallett (5-0).

Flyweight, Mandy Böhm (6-0)

From Germany, Mandy Bohm trains out of Straight Blast Ireland under John Kavanagh. On the feet, she’s good and long, throwing a variety of kicks. Bohm is solid in the clinch with Muay Thai along with some nasty elbows she uses often. She’s even better on the mat with exceptional wrestling to get it there. Still raw but has the talent. She fights Griet Eeckhout (5-3-1).

Welterweight, Uroš Jurišič (10-0)

Fighting out of Slovenia, Uros Jurisic is a savage of a fighter. He hasn’t fought in a while but has some good wins on his record including a win over Jose Caceres for the Titan FC title. Jurisic is a heavy handed wild man who will explode forward throwing heavy leather. He will draw guys in and then sling with some bad intention with everything he throws. Not just a striker, Jurisic has a good ground game as well with nasty ground and pound and some overall underrated grappling. He fights Walter Gahadza (10-0).

Bellator Euro Series 9 | Saturday | Italy

Featherweight, James Gallagher (10-1)

Gallagher fights at a karate stance but is a solid kickboxer. Gallagher is very unpredictable with his kicks he goes to the legs, body, and head and throws spinning kicks and throws with some heat. Even though he is so good on the feet, all of his best work is on the mat. James has very good wrestling and movement on the mat, he can get dominant positions, rain down ground and pound, and go for the chokes. He fights Cal Ellenor (8-2).

Welterweight, Kiefer Crosbie (8-1)

Crosbie is a product out of the Straight Blast Gym in Ireland, who has really turned his pro career around after a back-and-forth amateur career going 6-6. Crosbie isn’t great anywhere but he has some good qualities. His takedown defense could need some work but he is decent off his back. He could throw more on the feet but he does hit hard. What Crosbie does the best is land massive elbows as he has shown on the feet and on the mat. He also has some good clinch work. He still needs work but there has been a definite improvement. He fights Charlie Leary (16-11-1).

Lightweight, Robin van Roosmalen (2-0)

Robin van Roosmalen is a Dutch kickboxer who is a former Glory featherweight and lightweight champion. Roosmalen has a kickboxing record of 51-18. So far in his short MMA career, his takedown defense has been tested. He’s been taken down twice but in his second fight, it improved a lot. RVR is obviously dangerous on the feet showing one-punch knockout power, heavy kicks, and excellent shot selection. He fights Nauzet Trujillo (0-0).

EMMA 17 | Saturday | Ecuador

Welterweight, Michael Morales (9-0)

I will go on record to state that I’m not sold on Morales due to his poor level of competition. Morales is a tall welterweight at 6’3″ using his length well. He throws good leg kicks and long straight strikes. He does hold his hands low but he’s comfortable with his distance control. Morales doesn’t have the power but does have the output and volume. He fights Ricardo Centeno (6-5).

Featherweight, Aaron Cañarte (4-0)

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 together 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 Alex Fermin Cunuhay (1-3).

ACA 112 | Sunday | Russia

Flyweight, Imran Bukuev (11-1)

A product out of Akhmat Fight Club, Bukuev is a potential world-class flyweight prospect to keep your eyes on. Bukuev is at his best with his wrestling, where he is extremely strong, and the work on the mat is even better. He has five submissions including a flying triangle. Sometimes he can be a bit too flashy on the feet with one too many flying knees but he is very quick and moves very well. He fights Azamat Pshukov (6-1).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBTvjXkMoys&ab_channel=ACAMMA

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David “Killa Khroust” Dvorak
5’6″
Flyweight
27-years-old
Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
All Sports Academy
17-3
8 KO/TKOs
7 Submission

How will Dvorak fare in the UFC:

Dvorak has a lot of experience, and has been undefeated for a little over seven years. His level of competition hasn’t been great but it has been against other experienced guys. On the feet, Dvorak is ultra dangerous in every aspect. He throws good combinations, always throwing more than one punch and has the power to put his opponent’s lights out. Dvorak is just so dangerous at range with output and power. Even in the clinch he’s deadly with excellent Muay Thai knees which he uses a lot. He tends to strike more but does have good grappling as well. His wrestling could be better but he has strong jiu-jitsu. Dvorak doesn’t have any glaring holes so it will take a good fighter to figure him out. He’s a very good fighter that has a high ceiling.

How does Dvorak match up with Silva:

Silva is most likely not going to strike with Dvorak, being a primary grappler and Dvorak being so dangerous on the feet. The TUF Brazil alum is a decent fighter but it’s up in the air whether he’s UFC caliber. On the feet, no doubt Dvorak has the advantage. He’s much more technical than Silva and has much more power. Silva struggled on the feet against Khalid Taha in his debut getting wobbled a few times. Silva may have the advantage on the mat but it’s likely Dvorak can at least hold his own or maybe even have a slight edge. I like Dvorak in this fight due to the fact I think he’s more dangerous everywhere.

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Nickname: Magic
Age: 24-years-old
From: Tulsa, Oklahoma, US
Height: 5’10″
Reach: 74″
Weight class: Welterweight
Record: 8-0
Ranked #1 in active Oklahoma Pro Welterweights according to Tapology
Ranked #4 in active US Southwest Pro Welterweights according to Tapology

Who is Matt Dixon?

Matt Dixon first got into MMA through his father at the age of 5 years old. At the time he dabbled with some boxing, Muay Thai, submission wrestling, and other disciplines including BJJ as well. It wasn’t until Dixon was 12 years old that he started to watch MMA himself, which is when he discovered his passion for the sport.

There weren’t really any legit MMA trainers around Dixon at the time, so he watched fights and would shadowbox his ass off every day, he told us. The young Dixon remembers wanting a heavy bag to train with, but his mom couldn’t get him one right away. Dixon didn’t want to wait so he found an old tire in the woods that he took home and hanged in his backyard. That became his heavy bag. He beat on the bag every day when he got home until you could barely see the tire anymore.

Outside of MMA, Dixon has fought in boxing and kickboxing. He went 9-0 in kickboxing and 1-0 in boxing, as he did compete as a pro in boxing as well. Along with that, he competed in some grappling tournaments. Dixon currently trains out of WCF based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma with head coach Craig Blacklock. He found coach Blacklock when he was only 14, and it was his first real coach in MMA. His mother, a mom of three children with a lot on her plate, was just able to afford Dixon’s training with WCF, allowing him to follow his dream. Dixon wanted to, at the very least, have seven fights as an amateur but by the time he was 5-0 he reached his peak as an amateur in Oklahoma. Besides which, it became too hard for him to find fights. “Magic” Dixon has excelled as his profession currently with an 8-0 record as a pro, with six finishes. He’s the current Xtreme Fight Night welterweight champion winning that in only his third pro fight with multiple title defenses.

Striking

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. He throws a crisp jab into a leg kick and a nice left uppercut into a leg kick. He’s usually throwing combinations and the best thing is he always throws something different, mixing it up.

Kickboxing

On the feet, his kickboxing is arguably his best aspect. Dixon fights behind his kicks at times and sometimes ends combinations with a kick. He does a great job kicking the lead leg of his opponents right behind the knee and lower calf. Dixon also throws a good side kick to the mid-section. He can be a little flashy as well throwing some spinning kicks. He much better staying conventional attacking that lead leg where he attacks not only heavy but very frequently.

Clinch

Nothing really significant that stands out in the clinch but Dixon does do well. He is always working landing knees, fighting underhooks, and dropping levels. He’s intelligent knowing his positions and placement on his knees. He will get controlled at times against the fence but has never been gotten the best of.

Movement

Dixon isn’t flashy with his footwork but does switch stances often making it hard for his foes to read him. Dixon is never overly aggressive as he comes in with combinations and steps out of the pocket avoiding any damage.

Wrestling

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. Dixon will utilize a lot of feints to set up his takedowns. He will throw strikes to wrestle as he’s become very reliable capitalizing on it. Dixon doesn’t need the cage nor does he need to chain wrestle, as he easily can get the fight down at center.

Ground game

Dixon has some excellent grappling. He’s knowledgeable in transitions knowing what to do. He’s smooth in his transitions and well-executed in moving into the mount and taking the back. Dixon only has one submission win but is more of a threat with his ground and pound. He’s a more dangerous striker but his jiu-jitsu, control, scrambles, and ground and pound sets him apart.

Cardio

“Magic” Dixon has gone the distance twice and has gone past the third round twice. His hands do slowly drop as the fight goes but his cardio doesn’t look to be a problem. Dixon fights at the same pace all fight and for what he does that’s pretty darn good.

Defense

On the feet, I mentioned earlier his hand drop and I noticed as he circles away from the clinch he drops his hands to his waist. With that said he’s never really been dropped since his footwork is good as is his head movement. It’s just little things that can be adjusted but with such a young fighter that’s expected.

Final thoughts: Dixon is in my eyes one of the better unknown prospects right now. It will be noted that his level of competition hasn’t been the best fighting just mainly decent regional talent. His record still is in no way padded as he’s never fought anyone with a losing record and the opponents he’s beat, he’s done so in dominant fashion. He has the skills and tools to go far in the sport. Signing with LFA should set him up to excel at the next level. The UFC is already interested as they offered him a fight in the past so I’d expect him at the very least to turn up on the Contender Series this next Summer.

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UFC on ESPN+ 24 is going down on January 25 in Raleigh, North Carolina at the PNC Arena. Headlining the UFC Raleigh card is a pair of top heavyweights in former champion Junior Dos Santos, who is fighting the much improved Curtis Blaydes. The card will also feature a prospect vs. prospect scrap that is also a debut vs. debut, as Nate Landwehr will fight Herbert Burns.

Nate “The Train” Landwehr
5’9″
Featherweight
31-years-old
Clarksville, Tennessee
SSF Submission Academy
13-2
8 KO/TKOs

How will Landwehr fare in the UFC:

Landwehr is a forward motion train, never taking a step back as he’s always pressing a heavy pace. The fighter out of Clarksville, Tennessee has been taken down many times, has been dropped a lot, and put in bad positions. With that said, he has an insanely iron chin, he always gets back to his feet and does well off his back. In fact, he’s only been finished once in his career. Landwehr has a fan-friendly style, and will take a shot to give one. While he does hit hard it’s mainly his pressure, cardio, and will that is far superior. Landwehr throws good looping punches, has a nice right uppercut he loves to throw, and is very good in the clinch with his knees. He loves to brawl but Landwehr is actually a very good wrestler when he decides to use it. Expect him to do very well in the UFC. His takedown defense isn’t technically bad, but in three-round fights, it may result in him losing to a good wrestler that can out-score him. Prediction: Will get three bonuses in his first four UFC fights.

How Landwehr matches up with Herbert Burns:

Herbert Burns is a decorated grappler holding a lot of accomplishments, and is a black belt in BJJ. With that said, Landwehr will look to keep this fight standing to stay away from danger and keep it where he has a big advantage. Burns isn’t the wrestler he should be but it could only require just take one takedown to get the fight over with. Landwehr has always shown good defense off his back fighting the wrists and he knows what he’s doing. If Landwehr can survive round one he will take over. Over the course of his fights, Burns has telegraphed his takedown attempts and Landwehr just gets better over time. This is a tough but a very winnable fight for Nate Landwehr.

The post Welcome to the UFC: Nate Landwehr appeared first on Cageside Press.

AJ Cunningham is looking to get his revenge against a dangerous fighter in Solo Hatley Jr. after losing to him as an amateur. The pair meet for the second time at Pyramid Fights 14 this weekend, where Cunningham will enter undefeated as a pro. We caught up with the talented featherweight ahead of the fight.

First of all, how did you get into MMA?

It was when I saw a UFC event. It was when Anthony Pettis got beat by Rafael Dos Anjos. I thought after that fight ‘this is what I want to do with my life.’ I wanted to be a badass after UFC 185, that’s all I wanted to do.

Do you have any background in any other sports? If so, explain?

I played football for six years. I was a tailback, a small one at that at around 149 pounds tops. So I used to have to find ways to win battles.

What is your career, or would MMA be your full-time job?

I would love for MMA to be my full-time job. As of right now, I work at Bad  Boy Mowers. I also work at Fiddler’s Green (marijuana dispensary). The goal is hopefully in the next year and a half to be training full time.

Who are you currently training with and who are some of your main sparring partners?

I train out of Without Limits in Batesville, Arkansas. My striking coach is Matt Sellers and my jiu-jitsu coach is Josh Hudson. Some of my main training partners are at another gym, they are Bryce Mitchell and Jeremiah Cullum. My cousin Bryce is already in the UFC. Also Justin Frazier a former contender on the Ultimate Fighter also trains here at WL.

List of accomplishments such as titles, belt ranks, etc…?

I rank 44th out of 285 in the US southeast in the featherweight division right now. I also rank 244th out of 1299 in the United States. I’ve finished 3 of my 4 opponents in the first round. All 4 have been finished, 3 subs and 1 TKO.

What are your favorite striking and grappling techniques?

Elbows and spinning shit is what I love to do when I stand! As far as grappling goes I love it all. High guard with elbows isn’t something I’ve got to show in a fight yet but would love to. I like to wrestle off the cage but I do love me some submissions.

You’re set to fight Solo Hatley Jr coming up. What do you think about him as an opponent and how do you see this fight playing out?

Solo is a good boxer with power. I feel that sums him up. He is dangerous with his punches outside of that I don’t see much. He is 6-2 coming off a knockout loss. He has finished 4 of his opponents. I see this fight playing out as me coming out and landing some slick shots he will eventually get caught with an elbow and the night will end. It will be a fight for sure tho.

You had a pretty lengthy amateur career. What do you learn the most as an amateur?

I learned a lot, mostly patience but also to be well rounded. You can’t be in this game and be successful if your only good at one thing. I lost two fights in a row because I wanted to lay on my back and sub people. I got tko’ed because I just wanted to bang after that. Gotta be able to mix it all up.

Is there someone on the regional scene you have your eyes on to fight?

No, my eyes are on Solo Hatley right now. After that, it’s whatever hopefully the Contender Series, ONE FC or Bellator.

What are your plans moving forward? Is it the UFC or maybe something like Bellator, PFL, Rizin, or any other promotion?

Anywhere I can get paid and fight full time. I would love to fight in the UFC but if I can’t I’ll fight anywhere else. I love it, it’s my obsession. One FC, PFl, Bellator I don’t care something I can pay the bills and perform with.

If you weren’t fighting where would you be today?

I don’t know because it’s hard to imagine me not doing this (MMA). Probably at Bad Boys Mowers pushing for something, like a salesman or the police force ranking up.

Last question. Why do you fight and who do you fight for?

I fight because I love it. I don’t have any extra reason I just like to fight. My girlfriend is someone I would say I fight for. We have been together for six years. She has been tagging along through all of it. I fight for my sponsor’s bad boy mowers who have been supporting me for 5 years now. But like I said earlier, I fight for me. I love this and not one thing or person motivations me more than me.

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We caught up with Pure Combat welterweight Tobias Baker (2-0) ahead of Battle for the Brave this weekend, to talk about about his “nickname,” how he got into the sport, and more. Baker is fighting Aaron Thompson, who stepped up on short notice after John Simon suffered an injury in training.

First of all, how did you get into MMA?

I started my MMA journey when I joined Calaveras Martial Arts when I resided in Minot, ND. That journey began though around age 9 or 10 when I met Matt “The Hammer” Hamil at a function with my parents. He was extremely kind to my family and actually wrestled in college. I looked up to him and found a great appeal in wrestling just a few short years later. I grew up watching the greats when MMA was still not recognized on a national and international scale as it is now.

What is the reason for “The Heathen” nickname?

This question is interesting in itself. “The Heathen” isn’t a nickname as much as it is my personality. I live like a heathen, I respect few and fear none. I have a heavy Norwegian background and tend to admire the Vikings and Norse history. They were fierce warriors and so am I. I’d like to think this is always war and heathens are always ready for war.

Do you have any background in any other sports? If so, explain?

I grew up playing football but discovered wrestling shortly after my father passed and I wrestled from middle school through High school. I also competed in Olympic powerlifting and did well.

What is your career or would MMA be your full-time job?

Yes, this is my career, I made that decision the second I began this journey. I’ve given up great paying career opportunities for this. I currently work a full-time job but that’s just to pay my bills so I can keep continuing to chase my dream.

Who are you currently training with and who are some of your main sparring partners?

I train with Jason Georgianna (Head Coach) and Kobb Thongsai (Muay Thai Striking Coach). My training Partners are Adam Fugitt and Raymond Hill two of the most deadly welterweights in the PNW. I also have two other amazing partners that come in solely to help keep fresh bodies on us. I haven’t had Ray in a while due to an injury, but Adam is the sharpest fighter on the block right now so I stay prepared and fight ready with this kind of corner behind me.

List of accomplishments such as titles, belt ranks, etc…?

High School State Champion (FL), All-class champion (Best in-state), 4X All-American in HS, FCFF Amateur Welterweight Champion, 2 stripe Blue Belt 10th planet under Black belt Jason Georgianna, Undefeated since Amateur and have never been out of the first round!

What are your favorite striking and grappling techniques?

I have definitely taken to Jiu-Jitsu and fell in love with Muay Thai. I love to do it all, I love any position or striking scenario because everything requires a correct rebuttal or you’ll be met with the unexpected.

You’re set to fight Aaron Thomson coming up. What do you think about him as an opponent and how do you see this fight playing out?

I respect him like I do all that share a cage with me. I intend to end this fight as I have before. First-round, by way of finish no specifics just that I have a job to do and it will be done.

Is it correct your first amateur fight was at 185?

My first fight was a catchweight on one day’s notice at 190lbs then we made the move to Welterweight where the current fight is actually booked. It’s the weight class I intend to stay in and weight cut is still going good though!

Is there someone on the regional scene you have your eyes on to fight?

Yes anyone that will sign on the dotted line! I absolutely would love to fight on some bigger shows so it could be anybody.

What are your plans moving forward? Is it the UFC or maybe something like Bellator, PFL, Rizin, or any other promotion?

Moving forward my manager Matthew Dodge with Dodge Sports will help me decide that. We plan on dabbling wherever the fight is right!

If you weren’t fighting where would you be today?

if I wasn’t fighting I’d be working some crazy job making some crazy money living a quiet life out in the Midwest. Somewhere I see myself gravitating towards in retirement

Last question. Why do you fight and who do you fight for?

Like anyone, we all strive to find peace or what makes us get out of bed in the morning. Well some are built differently and we wake up and cannot live the 9-5, we can not just fall into line and take zero risks. I wake up and want to feel alive every day and be present. I need to know I earned my right to lay my head down at night and gave my all to earn and strive for better futures for my self, my family, and my gym. It’s a tough tough tough profession to put a family through. So a lot of men fight for their families. I fight because we all fight every day. We fight to get out of bed, not to eat that pizza or cookie, most of all we fight to be happy. That’s why I fight because when people will see me doing what I love, and witness what peace a fighter can possess but be so deadly in the cage. It brings me discipline and joy. I’m quite a simple guy and just love to compete. I’m in it for the fight, not the night…. when you understand that you understand a fighter.

Pure Combat: Battle for the Brave goes down live this Saturday, November 16 in Salem, Oregon at the National Guard Armory. The event can be streamed online via Fite.tv

The post Get to know Pure Combat Prospect Tobias Baker appeared first on Cageside Press.

Light-heavyweight, Magomed Ankalaev (11-1)

UFC Moscow is host to a lot of great fighters. While Roman Kopylov was strongly considered, I decided on Magomed Ankalaev for our spotlight this week. Russia’s own Ankalaev has only one loss, and that was by a Hail Mary triangle choke in the last second of his fight against Paul Craig.

Literally the last second. Ankalaev dominated that entire fight and would probably do that every time they fought. He’s a well-rounded fighter but what will make him exceed at the higher level is his wrestling. Being so physically strong in the clinch, Ankalaev finds the body locks, trips, and double legs effortlessly. The Russian is very good on top mainly with his devastating ground and pound that is definitely fight-ending. Ankalaev has grown into a solid fighter on the feet. Not someone who fights with a lot of output, Ankalaev is explosive and super athletic.

He throws good combinations with the lead roundhouse kick and strikes behind it. Ankalaev is a power kicker who has a precise jab. A bit flat-footed but makes up with it for his speed.

Ankalaev will take on South Africa’s Dalcha Lungiambula this weekend. On the feet, Dalcha has decent boxing and relies on his power and explosiveness more so. Ankalaev should have the advantage on the feet as he’s more technical and has more weapons. Both these fighters have solid wrestling and both are able to be taken down. I’d look for Dalcha to be a bit easier to take down, since historically he’s been taken down by lesser guys. Also, Ankalaev does well off his back, while Dalcha, not so much. Ankalaev is better on the feet, on the mat, faster, and as the fight goes on he will be the fresher fighter. This should be a setup fight for him, but I’m not looking past Dalcha one bit.

Ankalaev, in my opinion, is a future top ten guy easily and maybe even better. Right now I believe he beats Krylov, Rua, Cirkunov, Walker, and Latifi who are all ranked.

Welterweight, Logan Storley (10-0)

Logan Storley is a 4X All-American wrestler out of the University of Minnesota. Storley, who is currently 10-0, has been dominating in his MMA career thus far. He makes takedowns look easy, has heavy pressure and lands big ground and pound where he is the most effective. Storley is a great wrestler, though on the feet he hasn’t shown too much. He has a powerful right hand and does a good job throwing straight punches and has shown solid leg kicks, but can wrestle all fight long.

Storley is fighting EJ Brooks who is making his Bellator return after fighting outside the promotion since July of 2017. Brooks is a good wrestler who is decent on the feet, where his kicks are his best weapon. Storley hasn’t shown as much on the feet, but Brooks isn’t an opponent that’s really gonna test him in that area. The All-American is levels above Brooks when it comes to wrestling. As this is another good test for Storley I don’t see Brooks doing any better than what Ion Pascu and Joaquin Buckley did against the “Storm.”

I would have loved to have seen Storley in that Bellator welterweight Grand Prix. With that said, he’s young and with a new Bellator contract in hand, he will be pushed. I would like to see him fight Bellator welterweights like Yaroslav Amosov, Keifer Crosbie, Jason Jackson, Sabah Homasi, Ed Ruth, and Erick Silva. All guys I would favor him against. It’s a very stacked division and he is widely overlooked.

The post Fighter Spotlight: Magomed Ankalaev and Logan Storley appeared first on Cageside Press.

Nate Smith will enter this weekend’s MCF 18 a perfect 5-0 as a pro. Battling Delfino Benitez from the promotion’s 125lb strap, former Victory FC amateur champ Smith is looking to win his first title since turning pro in 2017. We caught up with Smith ahead of his main event title fight Saturday.

First of all, how did you get into MMA?

Man, I got into MMA from just watching it growing up. As well as from a lot of other influences.

Do you got any background in any other sports?

Yes! I was very deep into football as well as wrestling. I have a huge background in wrestling which a lot of people sleep on.

What is your career, or would MMA be your full-time job?

I work part-time jobs here and there, but I give my undivided attention to my MMA career. Just so I can reach and push towards my maximum potential.

Who are you currently training with and who are some of your main sparring partners?

I train with a lot of stud UFC fighters and prospects as well as ex-Bellator champions. From Anthony Smith, Devonte Smith, Johnathan Martinez, Cody Stamen, Sid Bice, Brandon Royval and the OG himself Joe Warren. All at Factory X.

List of accomplishments such as titles, belt ranks, etc…?

USA Junior Olympic wrestler in Greco Roman, Fargo All-American as well national champion. Won a ton of amateur belts, too many to think of as well. I’m currently number 24 in the country in the flyweight division.

What are your favorite striking and grappling technique?

My favorite strike is the basics A Dutch style 1,2 into my double leg takedown.

You’re set to fight Delfino Benitez coming up. What do you think about him as an opponent and how do you see this fight playing out?

I think of him just as another individual in my way and I have to get through them. Nothing else, nothing more, nothing less. I already beat him twice so it’s another day in the office.

If you weren’t fighting where would you be today?

I would be honestly just working a regular 9 to 5 job and taking care of my little four-year-old girl.

You’re still so young in your career. Where do you see yourself in the next couple years?

Well in the next two years I will be a top contender. And followed up with me beating and becoming the new flyweight champ and having a long run like Mighty Mouse.

With how the state of the flyweight division is would you consider moving up to 135?

Yeah but only if I had to bump to 135 regardless. I know what I have to do no matter what weight and that’s be great and make history and win titles.

Is there someone on the regional scene you would like to fight?

Someone who’s getting a shot in the UFC to be honest because I personally feel there’s guys who are given chances who aren’t even remotely close to my level of skill.

Explain a normal day in the life of Nate Smith?

My normal day consist of me getting up taking a good shower, having some coffee preparing me. As well as getting a couple push-ups in just to get my body active, eat a nice breakfast if I can, then head out straight to training and get ready for growth and development.

Favorite TV show?

Favorite show that’s pretty hard to say I have mini from watching anime to watching Black-ish but honestly other than that I don’t really watch TV.

Last question. Why do you fight and who do you fight for?

Why! It’s bigger then me. Because not only do I fight for my daughter to provide a good life for her and show her how to continuously push forward through any obstacle that is thrown her way in life. As well as for my family. I really want to take my grandmother out the hood and give her everything that she wants or anything that she wants because my grandfather passed away four years ago and it was one of the biggest heart breaks I have ever had. And plus I want to continue making my grandfather proud of me continuing to pursue my dreams even after I got my education in college and being the first in my family to do so.

MCF 18 takes place live on Saturday, October 19 at the D&N Events Center in North Platte, Nebraska. A live stream PPV of the card is available.

The post MCF Flyweight Nate Smith Plans To Have A Long, Mighty Mouse-Like Run appeared first on Cageside Press.

Underrated undefeated Russian prospect Zelim Imadaev has signed a contract with the UFC, and has been in talks since November. First reported by Russian journalist Adam Zubayraev, the story was later confirmed by ESPN’s Ariel Helwani. A debut date and opponent has yet to be announced.

Zelim Imadaev
6’0″
Welterweight
23-years-old
Moscow, Russia
Xtreme Couture
8-0
8 KO/TKO

How Does Zelim Imadaev Fare in the UFC?

Zelim Imadaev is another good Russian prospect the UFC has made a move on in 2018. At only 23-years-old, Imadaev has yet to reach his prime as he still is developing his striking defense and cardio. With that said, it hasn’t been too much of a problem as he has stopped all his fights in completely one-sided fashion. On the feet, he has knockout power in his hands and solid kickboxing. He’s excellent with chain-wrestling and positional grappling. The Russians have a thing for a dominant top game and while he is not near the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov or other Dagestanis, it’s a great tool of his. Overall, he’s a good talent with a high ceiling who can be a top guy a few years from now.

Who Should Zelim Imadaev Fight?

With the UFC coming to Russia in the first quarter of 2019, there’s no doubt he should be on that card but the opponent would be the big question. A fight with someone like Ottman Azaitar makes for a good challenge as Azaitar is the former Brave CF champion. Azaitar is a newly-signed UFC fighter as well waiting for a debut and both show promise.

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