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Record: 6-0-0, Weightclass: Middleweight
Age: 27, From: Baldwin, New York, USA
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In the past two and a half years, Chris Weidman has gone from being an assistant wrestling coach at Hofstra University, to the very best prospect in mixed martial arts. The two-time NJCAA and NCAA Division I All-American (four-times overall) first rose to prominence when he came out of nowhere by not only qualifying, but performing competitively, at the 2009 ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championships. Since then Weidman has continued expanding his arsenal under the tutelage of Matt Serra and Ray Longo, leading to his signing with the UFC in early 2011. Weidman should have no problems stepping into an impact role within the division, and could emerge as a top ten talent as soon as the coming year.
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Record: 11-1-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 22, From: Quesnel, British Columbia, Canada
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It’s hard to imagine that at just twenty-two years of age, Rory MacDonald is almost six years into his professional fighting career. The Kelowna, British Columbia product currently holds an 11-1 record, and recently made the move to Montreal to train alongside division kingpin Georges St. Pierre at the Tristar Gym. His smooth transition game, strong submission pedigree, and knockout power have critics salivating over his top end potential. Just a little over a year ago MacDonald appeared poised to crack the top ten rankings in the division, before a comeback performance by Carlos Condit saw him stopped just 7 seconds from the final bell. It would be very wise of the UFC to demonstrate patience in bringing along MacDonald, who could emerge as a title threat in a couple of years.
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Record: 4-0-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 29, From: Brazil
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Roger Gracie retains his status as the best BJJ practitioner on the planet and one of the top prospects in the sport of mixed martial arts. Having captured multiple ADCC submission wrestling titles and an unprecedented ten IBJJF World Championships as a black belt, there’s no doubting the quality of Gracie’s grappling pedigree. Recently he’s also shown improvement in his standup, which has piqued interest into the type of striker he’ll ultimately develop into. After competing very sporadically over the first five years of his career, Gracie appears set to make an honest run in the sport. If he competes regularly and continues showing progress in his standup and takedowns, Gracie could creep into top ten contention towards the end of the year.
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Record: 14-1-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 21, From: Sao Paulo, Brazil
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It’s hard to ignore Charles Oliveira’s offensive skill set. He’s constantly pressuring opponents standing with his punches and kicks, while showing the technical ability and aggressive submission mentality to threaten as soon as the fight hits the mat. While wrestling does appear to be an obstacle he’ll have to overcome, Oliveira has the rare ability to thwart top position grapplers with one of the most efficient guard games in the division. As the sport of mixed martial arts has grown, elite fighters with aggressive, go-for-broke, finishing mindsets like Oliveira have become few and far between. At the very least, the twenty-one year old Oliveira should develop into a lightweight mainstay for years to come.
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Record: 13-1-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 20, From: Modesto, California, USA
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An immensely skilled bantamweight prospect, Michael Mcdonald is starting to hit his stride just half a year into his UFC career. He’s currently riding a six-fight winning streak that includes stoppages of five notable opponents, including a former WEC champion. What separates McDonald from an average prospect is his combination of talent, and his cerebral approach to the fight game. In addition to showcasing the ability to succeed as both a grappler and striker, McDonald has demonstrated phenomenal MMA IQ. Mature beyond his years, the twenty year old is an elite prospect with an extremely high ceiling. Already established as a UFC regular, McDonald shows the potential to anchor the promotion’s bantamweight division at some point in the future.
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Record: 8-0-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 25, From: Nova Friburgo, Brazil
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Heavily hyped even before signing with a major promotion, Edson Barboza has continued his evolution under the UFC banner. The decorated muay thai stylist brings an unparalleled brand of standup to the cage, showcasing fantastic speed, power and technical competency. His trademark leg kicks and dynamite power have reaped benefits early in his career, as Barboza’s compiled a perfect 8-0 record which includes six knockouts. Under the guidance of Eduardo Guedes, Raphael Chaves and the staff at The Armory, Barboza has continued making significant strides in his BJJ and wrestling abilities. Although he still has a lot to prove, Barboza is a rare talent who’s capable of anchoring a division and excelling in every facet of the sport. If his game continues maturing at the rate it has, Barboza could emerge as a top ten contender as soon as 2012.
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Record: 8-0-1, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 23, From: Akureyri, Iceland
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Gunnar Nelson remains one of the top prospects in all of mixed martial arts. Since entering the sport in 2007 he’s compiled an 8-0-1 record and shown rapid progression in his grappling ability. At twenty two years of age Nelson is already a Renzo Gracie black belt, Pan-American Games Champion, Mundials Silver Medalist, and Abu-Dhabi veteran. He also holds a black belt in karate and has shown knockout finishing power early in his career. Although he’s arguably the top welterweight prospect outside North America, Nelson doesn’t appear to be in a rush to make the transition just yet. In the meantime he’ll need to add strength and continue working on his wrestling, but his talent level is undeniable. Nelson projects as an all-around welterweight with elite grappling ability.
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Record: 6-0-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 20, From: Brazil
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At twenty years of age Yuri Villefort already shows the makings of a complete mixed martial artist. He boasts backgrounds in judo, BJJ, and muay thai, and demonstrates technical merit that transcends his age. Villefort’s shown the potential to develop into a knockout artist as his striking arsenal already consists of devastating kicks and a superb recognition of range. Equally comfortable on the mat, Villefort’s aggressive guard skills and active submission game should only improve in the coming years. Although his wrestling has not developed as rapidly as the other aspects of his game, Villefort’s ceiling is extremely high. Well trained, Villefort continues gaining experience steadily and without putting much wear on his body. He holds the highest upside of any fighter on this list, and with seasoning could develop into a frontline welterweight contender in due time.
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Record: 9-1-0, Weightclass: Featherweight
Age: 24, From: Porterville, California, USA
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Despite injury concerns, Joe Soto remains one of the featherweight division’s brightest prospects given his wrestling base, versatility and drive. Prior to detaching his retina, Soto had torn through all nine of his professional opponents and was dominating top ten featherweight Joe Warren before a right hand sent him reeling and eventually led to a knockout loss. Only twenty four, Soto holds fantastic upside in his all-around ability. The two-time JUCO All-American wrestler comes from a solid base, shows aggressive submission skills, and has demonstrated the potential to develop into a strong MMA striker. His work ethic and toughness have never been questioned, and if his eye injury is finally behind him there’s no limit to how far he can get in the sport. Soto projects as a well-rounded fighter with substantial skill across the board. Should he continue to build on the promising start he’s had to his career, Soto could breakthrough as an impact fighter as soon as this year.
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Record: 17-1-0, Weightclass: Featherweight
Age: 24, From: Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
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After spending the first six years of his pro career competing in Brazil, Patricio Freire has encountered little difficulty transitioning to the North American mixed martial arts game. Recently he captured Bellator’s Season Four Featherweight Tournament Championship, after finishing as a runner-up in season two. A dynamic athlete known for his black belt level mat game, aggressive submission skills, and highlight reel knockout prowess, there’s little not to like about Freire’s makeup. While wrestling may be an obstacle, “Pitbull” does hold a 17-1 pro mark as well as a mature, well-rounded MMA game. Freire requires little seasoning and is poised to breakthrough as a top ten featherweight as soon as this coming year.
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Record: 10-1-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 27, From: Washington, DC, USA
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In mixed martial arts injuries routinely derail the careers of promising fighters. In Mike Easton’s case, he has not competed in nearly two years as he continues working his way back from knee, elbow, and forearm injuries. Prior to that, the Team Lloyd Irvin trained black belt appeared on the cusp of a major promotional deal, after he’d earned several notable victories including a decision over former WEC title holder Chase Beebe. An incredible athletic specimen, with a strong technical pedigree on the mat and dynamite power in his fists, there’s little not to get excited about when evaluating Easton’s skill set. Although his rehabilitation from injury will play a critical role in the course his career takes, Easton’s athleticism and natural talent makes him a potential impact bantamweight.
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Record: 4-1-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 25, From: Riga City, Latvia
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Misha Cirkunov has continued his evolution as a mixed martial artist during his second year as a pro. Although his resume does not include an abundance of notable victories, it’s always been in Cirkunov’s pedigree and supplementary skills where his appeal lies. He’s been blessed with an enviable combination of size, speed, and power, as well as an amateur grappling background littered with noteworthy achievements. With Abu-Dhabi experience, several amateur wrestling titles in Canada, and holding dual black belts in Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Cirkunov’s MMA grappling potential is off the charts. A rare package of raw physical talent and technical savvy, Cirkunov projects as a complete light heavyweight with elite grappling ability.
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Record: 10-2-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 22, From: Brazil
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A versatile, immensely gifted talent, Eduardo Dantas remains one of the most promising prospects in the bantamweight division. At twenty two years of age, Dantas has already developed into an elite-level prospect, potentially capable of challenging the best in the sport. Dantas is equally comfortable in the striking and grappling departments, showcasing a finesse game that suggests star power. Like most BJJ-striker hybrids, Dantas will need to continue concentrating on his wrestling, and his progression remains far from complete. A veteran of the Brazilian and Japanese circuits, Dantas is expected to make his North American debut this fall. While he could experience some growing pains adjusting to the North American game, the move will likely prove beneficial and allow Dantas to add to his already impressive skill-set. Dantas could arrive as an impact fighters as soon as 2012.
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Record: 8-1-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 22, From: New Jersey, USA
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A King of the Cage Champion, Jimmie Rivera is arguably the most highly regarded bantamweight prospect not signed to a major promotion. If his early career is an indication, Rivera should continue developing into a well-rounded fighter comfortable attacking with his standup and takedowns. His relentless takedowns, strong striking, and impressive cardiovascular training are trademarks of his game, and have helped him build a solid 8-1 record in his three years in the sport. Defensively there may be positions Rivera isn’t as efficient at attacking from, but there appear to be no glaring holes in his game. Given his athleticism and mature skill set, the twenty two year old’s evolution is far from complete. Look for Rivera to make his way to a big name promotion in the near future, where he could immediately step into a major role.
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Record: 11-1-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 24, From: Stockholm, Sweden
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Contrary to many European imports, Alexander Gustafsson has encountered little difficulty transitioning to the North American game. Much of that can easily be attributed to his skill set which is well suited to the UFC cage. A strong wrestler, Gustafsson’s powerful takedown game is complimented by a ferocious ground and pound attack on the mat. Standing, he’s demonstrated fantastic punching power and over the past year has made significant strides in his technical grappling ability. Blessed with a 6’5” frame, Gustafsson is a complete natural talent who projects as a power light heavyweight in his prime. His work ethic suggests he’ll continue developing in the coming months, and he could breakthrough as a top ten threat during 2012.
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Record: 8-2-1, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 27, From: Coro, Falcon, Venezuela
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Maximo Blanco’s evolution from prospect to lightweight contender has continued this past year. In that time he’s gained experience with two more victories, and signed with North American promotion Strikeforce. A powerful lightweight lauded for his offensive skills, Blanco’s upside is significant. He’s an accomplished amateur Venezuelan wrestler known for his big takedowns and tremendous punching power. His relentless aggression is well received by fans, and toughness has never been a question. Where Blanco will need to concentrate his efforts on are his defensive skills and technical ability. He has a tendency to ignore his defensive responsibilities, and much of his early success has come directly from his raw power. However, Blanco’s development is far from complete and if his technical skills can catch up to his natural ability he could become a dominant force at lightweight.
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Record: 13-3-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 27, From: Kyrgyzstan
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Farkhad Sharipov’s quality wins over the past twenty four months re-affirm his status as one of the top bantamweight prospects in mixed martial arts. Over that span Sharipov has earned several key victories, and gained experience in promotions such as Bellator FC and Tachi Palace Fights. A former Kyrgyzstan freestyle wrestling champion and member of the Russian national team, Sharipov’s wrestling pedigree is first class. Since moving to the United Stats he’s worked on rounding out his ground game and overall holds immense potential as an MMA grappler. Standing, Sharipov’s fluid footwork and intelligent striking has served as a perfect compliment to his natural base. He projects as a complete mixed martial artist whose mature skill-set could allow him to step into a significant role within a major promotion immediately.
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Record: 6-0-0, Weightclass: Bantamweight
Age: 24, From: Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada
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An enticing combination of skill, physical talent, and work ethic, Josh Hill continues his methodical route through the Canadian circuit. He’s been dominant through his six professional fights, showcasing an athletic skill-set that hints at elite potential. Hill’s power grappling game is well suited to the North American system, which combined with his cerebral approach and rapidly improving technical skill could allow him to flourish at the upper levels. While his resume may not boast the quality of opposition that most major promotion’s look for, Hill has shown flashes of brilliance early on. Given adequate time to develop, he could find himself a top ten fixture at bantamweight.
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Record: 7-0-0, Weightclass: Heavyweight
Age: 27, From: Appleton, Wisconsin, USA
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Prospect or not, Cole Konrad’s wrestling pedigree ranks amongst the very best in the heavyweight division. He’s a four-time Division I All-American, two-time National Champion, and Pan American Games Gold Medalist who’s made a successful transition to mixed martial arts. Konrad’s performance over the last year has seen him capture Bellator FC’s Heavyweight Championship and stake his claim as one of the top heavyweights not on the UFC’s roster. Konrad’s cerebral approach, excellent takedown game, and fantastic top position control bode very well for his future. Contrary to most wrestlers, Konrad is not known as an overwhelming ground and pound artist but his improving submission pedigree does give reason to be optimistic about his overall grappling potential. Striking is still a concern and there’s questions about whether his wrestling will translate at the upper levels, but Konrad is a potential impact heavyweight.
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Record: 1-0-0, Weightclass: Featherweight/Lightweight
Age: 23, From: Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Lance Palmer is one of the sports brightest prospects given his wrestling pedigree and athletic makeup. He makes the transition to fighting after finishing off a wrestling career that included a Big-Ten Championship, four Division I All-American honours, and a second place finish at the 2010 NCAA National Tournament. Although his MMA career has just begun, Palmer’s strength, speed, and flexibility suggest it should be a fruitful endeavour. Team Alpha Male will likely take a patient approach with Palmer’s development, but he could emerge as a bona fide top five superstar within two or three years.
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Record: 4-0-0, Weightclass: Heavyweight
Age: 25, From: Sandpoint, Idaho, USA
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Jared Rosholt has made a smooth transition to the sport of mixed martial arts after a standout collegiate wrestling career at Oklahoma State University. A rare combination of size and speed, Rosholt possesses the athleticism and credentials to develop into an impact heavyweight in due time. He’s a four-time NCAA Division I All-American and 2010 NCAA Runner-up, whose pure wrestling pedigree ranks amongst the best in the division. Moreover, his physical style is well suited to the sport and he’s shown promise in his ground and pound and power submission games. While the twenty four year old does possess top ten potential, he’ll need time to round out his skills and gain experience.
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Record: 16-5-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 21, From: Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
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While Rory MacDonald’s garnered most of the attention amongst Canadian welterweight prospects over the past couple of years, Jordan Mein’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. 2011 will likely be the seen as a turning point in his career, as the Lethbridge, Alberta native reeled off four consecutive victories, including those over Marius Zaromskis, Josh Burkman, and former UFC title contender Joe Riggs in the past seven months. Mein already has five years of experience on the Canadian circuit, and is easily one of the most mature twenty one year olds in the sport today. Although strong wrestlers could cause him problems at the higher levels, Mein’s capacity to finish is not lost on promoters. At the very least, Mein’s a safe bet to remain a relevant figure at welterweight in some capacity or another, although his ceiling is much higher.
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Record: 6-1-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 28, From: Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Since 2008 Sergio Moraes has been one of the top grapplers on the international stage. His breakthrough performance occurred during that year’s BJJ World Championships, when he tore through heavy favourite Kron Gracie en route to capturing his division’s title. Since then Moraes has added two more world titles at black belt, establishing himself as an elite player on the world stage. Moraes’ skill on the mat is undeniable and his silky smooth transition game and world class submissions ability will never be questioned. Moraes’ potential, however, is not limited to that one dimension. He’s shown promise in his wrestling, and while his standup game is developing the raw talent to succeed is evident. Finding a world class jiu jitsu practitioner capable of excelling in other facets of the sport is a rare thing in today’s sport. Assuming he returns to MMA competition at some point, there’s every reason to believe Moraes could make an impact at the highest level.
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Record: 12-3-0, Weightclass: Featherweight
Age: 25, From: Portland, Oregon, USA
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The gifted grappler brings a blend of size, wrestling, and submission skills to a division bereft of top level talent. Having spent the past eight months nursing a variety of injuries, Brookins will be looking to establish himself as an impact featherweight over the coming months. As a former “Ultimate Fighter” winner, the UFC will likely be patient in Brookins’ development and he should get plenty of opportunities to prove his worth. His combination of wrestling, top position control and developing jiu jitsu skills have proven to be incredibly difficult for past opponents to deal with. Although his standup game has a long way to go, Brookins is a special athlete with the raw talent to succeed in every facet of the sport. If Brookins begins trusting his repertoire as much as his coaches and fans do, he can accomplish big things at 145 pounds.
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Record: 7-1-0, Weightclass: Middleweight
Age: 26, From: Santa Cruz, California, USA
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2011 was expected to be the year that Luke Rockhold would blossom into a top ten threat at middleweight. Instead, the American Kickboxing Academy product has spent much of the last seventeen months rehabbing a variety of injuries. Prior to that, Rockhold appeared to be coming into his own after earning six straight stoppage wins - all of which had occurred in the first round. Rockhold’s offensive skill set is impossible to overlook, as he’s shown aggressiveness in both his striking and grappling that opponents have rarely had an answer for. Wrestling will be key as he proceeds in his career, but success will be inevitable should his skills translate against the upper echelon fighters in the division. He could emerge as a top ten fighter as soon as this year, injury concerns not withstanding.
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Record: 18-4-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 23, From: Brazil
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Douglas Lima is starting to come into his own at welterweight. The last twelve months has seen the young Brazilian go 3-0 to capture the MFC Welterweight Championship, and earn himself a spot in Bellator’s Season Five Welterweight Tournament. His flashy, offensive Jiu Jitsu game has proven remarkably consistent over the course of his career, and has been directly responsible for eleven of his eighteen career victories. Lima’s striking has continued to evolve and he’s seen improvements in his power recently, sparking interest into his fantastic striking-grappling potential. It appears that wrestling will be the only obstacle standing in the way of Lima developing into a bona fide superstar in the sport, but his talent level cannot be denied. Should he continue building on his strong 2010 campaign, Lima could breakthrough as a legitimate contender within a year.
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Record: 4-0-1, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 24, From: New York, USA
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After taking all of 2010 off, Al Iaquinta returned recently and pushed his record to 4-0-1. The New York native remains one of the top lightweight prospects on the east coast where he’s been recognized for his speed, quickness and improving technical pedigree. A collegiate wrestler by trade, Iaquinta’s shown fantastic progress in his standup. His smooth footwork is his most impressive skill, and Iaquinta’s shown immense promise in his boxing and standup games overall. His wrestling background is not lost in the shuffle as Iaquinta will look to utilize his takedowns to change pace. Though he will need to continue focusing on his jiu jitsu, he is a potential front line fighter at lightweight. Experience and training may be the only things standing in the way of Iaquinta’s development into an impact mixed martial artist.
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Record: 6-0-0, Weightclass: Heavyweight
Age: 28, From: Croatia
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Stipe Miocic will join the UFC with high expectations. A combination of physical talent and amateur pedigree, Miocic projects as a total package heavyweight in his prime. His vast athletic background saw him earn accolades in wrestling, boxing, and baseball during his time at Cleveland State University. A former nationally ranked Division I wrestler at 197 pounds; Miocic is also a golden gloves boxer who’s displayed crushing power in his early career. Although he’s recognized for his standup, Miocic separates himself from the typical one dimensional power puncher with the wrestling background he possesses. Although he lacks polish, Miocic’s technical skills have advanced over the course of his short career. Miocic will need to focus on his submission game and defensive instincts, but his upside is substantial. If the UFC is patient in bringing him along, they may have another viable contender on their hands within a couple of years.
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Record: 6-1-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 24, From: Dominican Republic
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Alex Garcia’s upside is tremendous, even though his technical game is still quite raw at this point. In his short career he’s shown flashes of brilliance and elite level natural talent in amassing a 6-1 pro record. Garcia’s explosive combination of speed and strength is awe inspiring, and he’s quickly become recognized for his punishing takedown game and crushing ground and pound. Although he doesn’t possess the amateur credentials that many of his peers do, Garcia’s potential is based almost entirely on his raw abilities. As an April loss to Seth Baczynski showed, there’s bound to be some growing pains along the way, but the potential payoff is enormous. At twenty four, there's no need for Firas Zahabi to rush Garcia's development, because the end product could potentially be an elite welterweight.
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Record: 8-0-0, Weightclass: Middleweight
Age: 27, From: North Carolina, USA
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Since turning pro in 2010, Derek Brunson has quickly run his record to a perfect 7-0. The three-time NCAA Division II All-American currently splits his training time between the Renzo Gracie Academy and Jackson’s MMA, and has shown elite offensive instincts early in his career. His wrestling pedigree is complimented by a punishing ground and pound game, burgeoning submissions skills, and incredible punching power. Brunson will need to focus on his continued technical progression with a special emphasis on his BJJ and submission skills, and to that end has surrounded himself with the trainers he needs to succeed at the highest level. A terrific athlete, should Brunson continue building on his strong start he could flourish in the middleweight division.
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Record: 8-0-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 25, From: High Ridge, Missouri, USA
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Michael Chandler’s championship run during Bellator’s Season Four Lightweight Tournament cements his status as one of the top prospects at lightweight. The young American’s gritty, in your face style is a holdover from his wrestling days where he was known for straddling the line between working hard and playing dirty without actually crossing over. Although Chandler’s athletic abilities are admirable, his biggest strength lies in his competitiveness and work ethic. He never takes anything for granted and shows the willingness to do whatever is needed to take his game to the next level. This was exemplified during his time at the University of Missouri, where he walked on to the wrestling program and went on to become team captain and achieve Division I All-American status. Chandler projects as a strong top position grappler with complimentary standup skills, who could develop into a top ten threat.
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Record: 10-0-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 24, From: Breisach, Germany
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After three years of solid work on the European scene, Pascal Krauss signed with the UFC and made his promotional debut in late 2010. Possessing backgrounds in boxing, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Krauss projects as a versatile, top ten contender in his prime. Krauss shows upside in his submission pedigree, which has served as his bread and butter in the early parts of his career. Extremely well trained on the mat, Krauss has spent significant chunks of time with the Gracie Fusion, Renzo Gracie, and Cesar Gracie camps furthering those skills. His grappling ability is complimented by a smart, technical striking game and he did earn junior boxing titles on the German scene prior to pursuing his MMA career. Though his skills are valid, his most impressive feature is his intelligence and cerebral approach. Already signed to the biggest promotion in the world, Krauss will look to continue gaining experience in the coming year.
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Record: 9-0-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 22, From: Michigan, USA
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Myles Jury was ready for his chance at mainstream success when he appeared on “The Ultimate Fighter 13” before a major knee injury derailed those plans and forced him to drop out of contention. Despite those concerns, the twenty two year old King of the Cage veteran is viewed as one of the top talents in the world at 170 pounds. With backgrounds in wrestling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Tae Kwon Do, Jury’s proven to be a complete fighter with no obvious holes in his game. Already five years into his professional fighting career, Jury displays a level of composure and maturity that transcends his age. If his consistent finishing ability can translate to the big stage, Jury could develop into a dominant welterweight contender in due time. Injury concerns aside, he projects as a versatile top ten threat.
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Record: 15-4-0, Weightclass: Featherweight/Lightweight
Age: 23, From: Florida, USA
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The drop to featherweight may finally push Pat Curran into top ten contention by year’s end. The long time Bellator standout made the decision to drop a weight class earlier this year and the move has paid immediate dividends. For the second consecutive year Curran will participate in a tournament final and that consistency has not gone unnoticed. With a 6-1 record over the past year and a half, Curran is starting to hit his stride as a pro. Though he’s a wrestler by trade, Curran has emerged as a dangerous striker. Training alongside his cousin Jeff Curran, Pat has continued showing progression in his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu pedigree and projects as a well rounded featherweight. Curran’s time as a prospect is nearing its end, and he could emerge as a featherweight contender shortly.
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Record: 15-1-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 22, From: Russia
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Vyacheslav Vasilevsky’s stock is on the rise after posting superb numbers to start his career. In just three years of active competition, Vasilevsky has compiled a 15-1 pro record that includes wins over several noteworthy opponents. A solid, all-around talent, Vasilevsky’s combination of technique and natural ability bodes well for his future. The young Russian displays great poise on his feet, showcasing excellent reaction times, great footwork and fantastic speed in his boxing. A decorated black belt sambo practitioner, Vasilevsky’s balance, and technically sound understanding of the ground game serves as a strong complimentary skill set to his striking. He may experience some growing pains when he inevitably makes his way to North America, but Vasilevsky’s talent level is immense.
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Record: 5-1-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 24, From: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Gregor Gracie’s bloodlines are steeped in tradition and MMA royalty. The half brother to Rolles and Igor Gracie, Gregor is a superbly gifted BJJ practitioner making his training out of New York. Even putting the Gracie name aside for a second, Gregor has established himself as an elite grappler on the world stage. He’s medalled at the Mundials, Pan –American Games, Brazilian Nationals, and recently took bronze at the 2009 ADCC Submission Wrestling Championships. After a brief MMA hiatus, Gracie returned in late 2010 and went on to earn three consecutive victories over a seven month period. While it may be a foregone conclusion that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will always be his bread and butter, it should be noted that Gregor is a phenomenally gifted athlete capable of excelling in all facets of the sport. Adding to his striking and refining his wrestling should be next steps, but Gregor shows the makings of an impact welterweight.
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Record: 9-0-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 28, From: Brazil
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Rene Nazare returned to MMA competition this year and picked up right where he’d left off. After signing with Bellator FC, Nazare promptly defeated Luiz Azeredo and Kelvin Hackney, earning an invitation into the promotion’s coveted lightweight tournament in the process. Nazare’s Brazilian Jiu Jitsu pedigree has been proven multiple times at the international level, as he’s captured four different world titles between the CBJJO and IBJJF governing bodies. What has been most promising however, has been his rapid progression as a striker. Nazare is an engaging combatant who’s shown considerable upside in his power and technique. Being recognized was one of the major hurdles standing in Nazare’s path to full-time mixed martial arts competition. He’s now in-line for regular duty with a Bellator tournament spot locked up, and could emerge as a future top ten contender with a strong showing.
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Record: 11-0-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 24, From: USA
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Possessing a combination of speed and power rarely seen at light heavyweight, Lorenz Larkin projects as an elite MMA striker. He shows elite offensive instincts and an incredibly athletic striking arsenal consisting of brutal kicks, fast hands, and legitimate one-strike knockout ability. Larkin’s explosiveness keeps opponents on guard at all times and he’s able to confidently press the action to force an exchange. Larkin’s sprawling techniques are adequate in keeping the fight upright, but progressing against tougher competition his wrestling and ground skills will need re-tooling. Although he’s still a very much a one dimensional fighter at this point, with a complimentary grappling game to accompany his brilliant standup, Larkin could achieve top ten status.
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Record: 11-2-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 26, From: Harlem, New York, USA
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The last two years have been an up and down time for Lyman Good. After capturing a Bellator title in June 2009, Good sat idly by waiting to defend his belt for more than a year. Though he returned in October, ring rust was evident and he proceeded to drop two of his next three bouts. Athletically, Good brings an enviable combination of size, skill and power to the cage. He hits hard and fast, proving to be a dangerous striker with finishing ability. He’s also shown strong takedowns, and his potential as a wrestler and ground and pound artist are sky high. Good has loads of offensive potential but will need to focus on his technical skills. His grappling game in particular will require attention, but a raw talent with Good’s ability is rare to find.
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Record: 12-1-0, Weightclass: Featherweight
Age: 22, From: Iowa, USA
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Erik Koch has provided depth to the UFC’s featherweight division without sacrificing his finishing ability. In a little over four years in the sport, Koch has compiled a 12-1 record and a finishing percentage of over 80% despite the stiff level of competition he’s faced. Known for his consistent effort and great offensive instincts, Koch is equally comfortable working his grappling and striking. He’s already shown dangerous power in his kicks and punches, as well as strong submission skills particularly off his back. Koch will need to continue adding to his wrestling skill set, but he appears to have a long career ahead of him. Koch could enter the top ten picture very shortly, and at the very least his aggressive striking and sound submission skills should allow him to develop into a credible two-way threat for years to come.
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Record: 8-0-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 26, From: Brazil
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Marcos Rogerio de Lima presents a package of power and technical skill in his striking. An accomplished muay thai artist, Lima is an ultra aggressive combatant who presents a dangerous inside-outside threat on his feet. His fast hands, punishing kicks and powerful clinch game are trademarks, as is his brutal power and finishing ability. Improving his wrestling and BJJ are next steps, although he has made strides in those areas under the tutelage of Marco Barbosa. After raising his profile by defeating Paulo Filho, de Lima inked a contract with Strikeforce in mid-2011. He’s expected to embark on his North American career later this year and given his size and offensive abilities, Lima could emerge as a top ten player within a year or two.
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Record: 7-1, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 27, From: USA
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A former Division I wrestler at Cornell University, John Cholish has quickly acclimated himself to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA in general. Earlier in the year, Cholish hinted at where his true potential lay in a beautifully orchestrated win over Marc Stevens. Although he has the skill and background to justify his appeal amongst supporters, it’s Cholish’s intelligence and ability to transition between different areas of the fight game that makes him a special prospect at lightweight. He blends his entire arsenal together effortlessly, while showcasing strong technical comprehension at all times. The biggest hurdle to success appears to be Cholish’s capacity to juggle a rigorous training schedule, with a full time job as an Ivy League energy broker. At some point it seems inevitable that Cholish will have to choose between the two, because he does have top ten talent.
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Record: 10-1-0, Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 22, From: Los Angeles, California, USA
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Jorge Lopez offers a skill set that features good wrestling, grappling and above average striking. A former Utah State Wrestling Champion, Lopez dove head first into his mixed martial arts training upon graduation. The diversity in his background is quickly apparent, and Lopez has shown the ability to adapt his technique to multiple situations. His skills have progressed steadily and he’s experienced almost no setbacks in the early going. Lopez’s intelligent use of takedowns and striking has helped guide him to a 10-1 record in his five years as a pro. Although he’s far from proven, at twenty two Lopez’ game is already well suited for quality opposition. With seasoning on the regional circuit, Lopez could be ready for a big league promotion shortly.
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Record: 12-0-0, Weightclass: Middleweight
Age: 24, From: Salvador da Bahia, Brazil
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Bruno Santos has risen to prominence competing in his home country of Brazil. He’s compiled a perfect 12-0 record, and earlier this year emerged victorious at the prestigious eight man, one night Bitetti Combat Middleweight Grand Prix. Though Santos has only finished 25% of his opponents, its undeniable his makeup is well suited to the North American style. Santos deviates from the typical Brazilian approach, relying heavily on his takedowns, ground and pound, and smothering top position control to methodically grind his way to victory. His BJJ skills are strong, submission skills sound, and with focus on his striking, he’s a potentially complete mixed martial artist. With little left to prove on the domestic scene, look for Santos to make his way to a major American promotion by 2012.
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Record: 11-1-0, Weightclass: Light Heavyweight
Age: 23, From: Brazil
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Ronny Sales da Silva (also known as Ronny Markes) joined the UFC in 2011 after a successful three year stint on the Brazilian circuit. The talented light heavyweight is a powerful athlete who’s posted impressive finishing numbers in the early portion of his career. An offensively gifted striker, Markes attacks with his muay thai arsenal and shows plenty of upside in his speed-strength attributes. As a member of the famed Nova Unioa camp, Markes has continued receiving expert instruction on the various nuances of ground fighting. He’s also shown plenty of upside in his takedown ability, and his approach translates well to North American fighting. At twenty three, Markes may have benefited from a little more exposure on the domestic scene before joining the big stage. Size, American wrestling, and defensive instincts are all obstacles that will need to be overcome, but his natural talent really isn’t debatable. Markes projects as a prototypical Brazilian grappler and muay thai stylist who could make an impact with experience and seasoning.
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Record: , Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 23, From: Liverpool, England
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Paul Sass is part of a growing number of talented British fighters to join the UFC in recent years. He made his North American debut this past October, and promptly defeated Mark Holst to up his pro record to a perfect 11-0. At twenty two years of age, Sass has shown immense potential in his submission skills. Ten of his career wins have come via submission, and a staggering eight of those have come in the form of triangle choke. Like many young fighters, rounding out his game and filling out physically will be keys at the next level. What Sass does have going for him, however, is a skill set that is atypical for the division. His frame and makeup is not easy to prepare for, and if his game is able to function against the better fighters in the division, he could breakthrough as an elite lightweight.
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Record: 6-2-0, Weightclass: Heavyweight
Age: 25, From: Evansville, Indiana, USA
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Few fighters have had their career’s go off the tracks as quickly as Todd Duffee’s has. Just one fight after posting the most impressive debut in company history, Duffee was abruptly released by the UFC. Then in late December he decided to take a short-notice bout with Alistair Overeem and was promptly knocked out in 19 seconds. Duffee’s talent level has never been the problem. His speed, power and natural athleticism all rank at the top of the division and suggest he could potentially be a top contender one day. Just eight fights into his professional career, Duffee may be at a crossroads. Given his age and experience there’s still reason to be optimistic about his future, but the question now becomes, will Duffee ever make the most of that incredible skill set?
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Record: 5-2-0, Weightclass: Middleweight/Light Heavyweight
Age: 22, From: Concord, California, USA
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Roy Boughton’s stock has continued to rise in his short career. In just over a year of professional fighting, Boughton has captured a four-man tournament championship and defeated notable names like Misha Cirkunov and Murilo Rua. The Cesar Gracie trained light heavyweight is very confident in his ground skills and has shown little hesitation attempting to take opponents to the mat. Under the guidance of his coaches, Boughton’s shown good transitions and active submissions skills all while learning jiu jitsu the correct way. Most impressive has been the level of composure Boughton’s demonstrated. He rarely get’s rattled and seems to have the innate ability to capitalize on any openings that come his way. Though he’s developed at an encouraging rate, Boughton will need to build on his strong start. He will also need to be weary about taking bouts before he’s ready for them, but given his talent he could develop into an impact fighter.
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Record: 10-2-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 19, From: Tychy, Poland
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Poland's prized lightweight prospect, Marcin Held has developed well over the course of his three year career. He’s a slick grappler known for his submission game, technical ground skills, and steadily developing standup. Held recently made his North American debut under the Bellator FC banner where he was choked unconscious by Michael Chandler. At nineteen years of age there’s no reason to think Held won’t be able to rebound, although that fight did highlight several holes in his game. While there are few doubts about Held’s talent level, he remains far from filling out his projectable frame. Adding strength and focusing on his wrestling are absolute necessities for Held if he wants to eventually make an impact in the UFC.
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Record: 15-3-0, Weightclass: Lightweight
Age: 22, From: Chechen Republic, Russia
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Mairbek Taisumov's stock is rapidly on the rise. The M-1 prospect has already reeled off consecutive wins to begin the year, showing well rounded abilities in the process. Taisumov possesses a quality submission game, excellent ground and pound instincts, and very dangerous standup. He also has a background in freestyle wrestling, which bodes extremely well for his North American aspirations should those skills translate against the better fighters in his weight class. Just twenty two years of age, Taisumov appears content gaining experience on the European circuit. As he matures and fills out physically, Taisumov could very well make his mark as an impact lightweight.
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Editors Note
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As a sport, Mixed Martial Arts has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. And while it has continued to expand, the structure, framework, rules and regulations that characterize and govern the sport are still developing.
We at MMARanked.com abide by a criteria when deciding who is (and who isn’t) considered a “prospect”. At this point while there are certain subjective measures in place, much of our evaluation process involves an objective outlook also.
That criteria is continuously under review and we are always looking to better our process. The list we’ve constructed is based on fighters who’ve fallen under the prospect banner according to our criteria.
While still developing, we feel that it’s imperative MMA be covered in as similar a fashion as possible to traditional sports. Every major sport has multiple publications and a foundation for judging the young talent for their respective sports. We are trying to help build that structure in MMA.
Feedback is both welcomed and appreciated.
Vikram Sandhu
Editor-in-chief MMARanked.com
vik.sandhu@mmaranked.com
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