In the Clinch: Gaziev Could Leapfrog to Rankings vs. Rozenstruik, UFC Vegas 87 – There is a logjam in the UFC heavyweight division with champion Jon Jones injured, but Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Shamil Gaziev still have business to take care of Saturday at UFC Vegas 87.
Rozenstruik (13-5-0), 35, will defend his No. 12 ranking by taking on DWCS alum Shamil Gaziev (12-0-0), 34, in the main event. With three losses in his past four fights, the pressure is on ‘Bigi Boy’ to get a win.
In his last fight, Rozenstruik was dragged to the ground by Jailton Almeida and choked out in the very first round. So, against Gaziev, I expect his takedown defense to be improved so that he can use his striking to maximum effect. He has done it before against Curtis Blaydes, although in defeat. But that’s what you get with Jairzinho, powerful striking and average ground game.
If Rozenstruik can connect, the game is usually over.
Meanwhile, Gaziev is still undefeated in 12 fights, including a victory in his octagon debut against Martin Buday last December at UFC 296. The Bahrain prospect has also shown a knack on the ground, with three rear-naked choke finishes on his record, in addition to knockout power, with eight stoppages. On paper, this gives Gaziev, the advantage in terms of skills.
Rozenstruik has the experience advantage, having fought a lot of good fighters in the division. And so, it will be interesting to see if pure talent wins out, or if experience will play a vital role.
And so where does this fight leave the heavyweight division? It probably helps more than hinders, as everyone in the top five needs someone to fight to keep things moving. Having another potential contender enter the fray is always a good thing.
Rozenstruik was once that contender who is now trying to regroup. Gaziev will look to carve his own path at UFC Vegas 87.
In the Clinch: Gaziev Could Leapfrog to Rankings vs. Rozenstruik, UFC Vegas 87 – More Resources
Jairzinho Rozenstruik
Shamil Gaziev
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