Prospects To Watch (2019 Edition): Heavyweights

This is not a comprehensive list of prospects; it’s an overview of the most promising young talent in a given division. Given the sheer number of grassroots and regional promotions worldwide, it is almost a certainty that future stars have not yet popped up on my radar. If you feel I’ve overlooked a high-calibre prospect, please feel free to let me know in the comments section or on social media.

Ciryl Gane

Age: 28

Record: 2-0

Years Pro: 1

In early 2018, Gane transitioned from a successful career in kickboxing, where he went 14-0, to MMA. At 6’5 with an 83-inch/ reach, Gane has a top–end body frame for a heavyweight striker. The speed with which Gane moves and strikes impresses that his physical gifts are matched with real talent. He likes to stay on the outside where he can utilise his long reach, but quickly closes the distance when he sees an opening. Gane is also comfortable in the clinch, where he is able to consistently finding opportunities to throw knees. His ground game is still an unknown but he does have a submission win on his record which demonstrates some knowledge of offensive grappling.

Ali Isaev

Age: 35

Record: 4-0

Years Pro: 3

A former European Freestyle Wrestling champion, Isaev is a late starter in MMA, debuting at 32 years of age; he has since gone 4-0 with increasingly impressive performances. Unsurprisingly, Isaev’s main objective is to get his opponents to the ground, often favouring a double leg takedown to do so. On the ground, Isaev has a controlling top game and prefers short punches over submissions. On the feet, Isaev likes to use his kicks which is uncommon for a heavyweight. However, he has made it work for him, picking up a highlight-reel spinning wheel kick knockout in his most recent fight.

Denis Goltsov

Age: 28

Record: 22-5

Years Pro: 9

Although Goltsov has more experience than other people on our list with a record of 22-5 against a good level of opposition, he is still only 28 years old – a cub by heavyweight standards. Goltsov comes from a Combat Sambo background and has a well-rounded skill set. Despite his 6’6 frame, Goltsov is light on his feet and can run circles around the more plodding heavyweights; he has picked up wins with speed and a well-utilised jab. Goltsov has shown a susceptibility to takedowns but he does, however, possesses a dangerous submission game due to his long limbs.

Amir Aliakbari

Age: 31

Record: 9-1

Years Pro: 3

The 2010 World Wrestling Championship gold medalist, Aliakbari transitioned to MMA in 2015 and has since gone 9-1, his sole loss delivered to him by the legendary Mirko Cro Cop. Aliakbari brings a very physical and technical wrestling game into the cage which has often overwhelmed his opponents. The Iranian looks to advance positions on the ground and has two wins as a result of him securing a mounted crucifix. Aliakbari’s striking is still raw but he has shown power in his hands, the realization of which could make him a true threat to anyone in the land of giants.

Hugo Cunha

Age: 25

Record: 4-0

Years Pro: 1

Cunha is a former Brazilian national wrestling team member and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In addition to his grappling credentials, Cunha has a very large stature at 6’3 and 260 lbs. Cunha’s stand up is still largely a question mark as he prefers to quickly take his opponents down, but from the limited time that he has spent on his feet he still seems very green. On the ground, Cunha is a handful for his opponents due to his grappling skill and size. ‘Silverback’ is skilled in passing the guard and utilises heavy ground-and-pound volume to secure finishes. Cunha’s game is enough to achieve success on the regional scene but he will have to improve his striking if he wants to make an impact in major organisations.