Your favorite MMA fighter is most likely someone you’ve been following before they became famous. You feel more connected to such fighters because you feel you’ve been part of the journey to fame. If you usually bet on MMA events, it is easier for you to discover upcoming fighters. In this sense, consider reading MMA bet tips to improve your probability pacing a winning bet. Moreover, if you’ve been reading the tips you might have a clue of who these fighters are. So, who are the up-and-coming MMA fighters you should watch? Read on to find out more!
5. Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida
Buchecha is an extremely decorated BJJ professional. He crossed over into MMA, where he has enjoyed a promising start to his career after registering two first-round submissions. Besides, the fighter has 128 wins in submission wrestling to his name.
His grappling pedigree creates a fascinating matchup with Arjan Bhullar, the ONE Championship heavyweight champion. He is a fighter MMA fans should keep an eye on as he continues to grow in the game.
4. Paddy Pimblett
Pimblett introduced himself to the MMA scene with an impressive UFC debut. The fighter survived Luigi Vendramini’s initial assault and pulled off a comeback knockout late in the first round. He showcased the rock-solid chin he is popular for. Moreover, he exhibited a willingness to keep going even when things got tough in the cage.
“The Baddy” bears the potential to become a lightweight division contender as long as he works on a few weaknesses. Nonetheless, all is well for the Englishman, who some have dubbed the next Conor McGregor.
3. Garry Tonon
Tonon is currently ranked third in the featherweight division of ONE Championship. He is a decorated grappler who has participated in almost 100 grappling matches. He started his career with wrestling classes while in fifth grade. Later, he added Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his training.
He signed with ONE Championship in 2018 and has impressed even more as an MMA artist. He has an impressive 6-0 record. His next match is against Thanh Le for the featherweight title.
2. Chris Barnett
Chris Barnett is arguably the most entertaining heavyweight in MMA at the moment. He is full of surprises, and his chunky appearance usually makes his opponents underrate him. He hails from a family of Taekwondo practitioners, and his kicks are unmatched.
His spinning techniques are out of this world, something you wouldn’t expect from a plump heavyweight. His spinning kicks were critical in stopping veteran Gian Villante in his last match.
1. Mackenzie Dern
Dern is undoubtedly the most decorated female grappler in MMA. She has participated in over 100 grappling matches meaning she is experienced enough. Once she puts her opponents’ backs on the canvas, they hardly survive. Seven of her eleven wins were courtesy of submission. Moreover, she has greatly improved her striking ability recently. She boasts an 11-2 record and remains the most promising up-and-comer in the women’s strawweight division.