Key Stats: 4.11 strikes landed per minute, 75% takedown defense, 3:59 average fight time
What It Means: Calling Edmen Shahbazyan a finisher might lend one to think of him as a wild, chaotic fighter, which couldn’t be further from the truth. The 22-year-old displays high levels of polished technique in his striking and grappling, as well as more patience than his track record might indicate. A well-rounded fighter, Shahbazyan makes winning look easy.
*Hasn’t competed in enough UFC bouts to qualify in the UFC Record Book
What to Look For in the Fight: A classic veteran versus up-and-comer bout, Edmen Shahbazyan is riding all sorts of momentum after knocking out veteran Brad Tavares. In Derek Brunson, though, he is set to face his most dangerous challenge yet. Brunson has shown a more patient approach to fighting, using his wrestling to wear on his opponents while keeping them honest with his heavy hands. How Shahbazyan adapts to the style mid-fight is a question to be answered, especially if the bout goes past the first round.
