Ikram Aliskerov will be given the chance of a lifetime this weekend in Saudi Arabia. After Khamzat Chimaev‘s withdrawal from the fight against Robert Whittaker, the Dagestani stepped up to take on the former champion.
This fight will only be Aliskerov’s third in the UFC. To say this will be a step up in competition doesn’t quite cut it. So far, the 24-year-old has a perfect record in the world’s leading MMA promotion with knockout wins over Phil Hawes and Warlley Alves – the latter earning him a performance of the night bonus.
The four-time combat sambo world champion is an exciting prospect. A heavy hitter with a quality wrestling game to fall back on, he is definitely one to watch. Currently unranked, a win over the brilliant Whittaker will catapult him up the middleweight division and could even throw him into title contention. A staggering feat for someone who lacks experience in the UFC.
Does Glory Await Ikram Aliskerov in Saudi Arabia?
Aliskerov is dangerous and arguably has the tools to cause Whittaker problems. He has far more to gain from a win than the Australian does, but securing the victory will be the biggest challenge in the Dagestani’s career by a long way.
The only blemish on Aliskerov’s record so far is a knockout loss to the aforementioned Chimaev back in 2019 in Brave CF. Since then, he has won seven fights, six of which were finishes. There are knockouts and submissions aplenty on his record of 15-1.
Whittaker has only ever lost to champions in the middleweight division. He is one of the most technical fighters in the UFC and has a stunning resume to boot. ‘The Reaper’ is taking a big risk with this fight, but he will be the favourite on the night.
Ikram Aliskerov will have his hands full in Saudi Arabia. Win though, and the rewards will be great.
The Aliskerov Skillset
Looking at his sambo success, it can be easy to forget that Aliskerov is an excellent striker. That is, until he lands the knockout blow.
He carries fight ending power and likes to set up his big shots with the jab. He will often move laterally as he throws this shot, stepping out to the left or right. This angle change can lead to a successful straight follow-up shot.
Aliskerov is entertaining and at times, wild. He will attempt unpredictable strikes such as the flying knee which can leave him exposed to counter shots. Other times though, these strikes provide devastating results – see the Alves fight for a prime example.
Aliskerov’s wrestling will mostly be on show against the fence where he is able to take his opponents down, sometimes with ease. He has a strong clinch game, seeking strikes here as well as trips.
This match up is fascinating for multiple reasons. The fight will show whether Aliskerov is ready for the big time in the UFC, and it will also give Whittaker the opportunity to put together back-to-back wins for the first time since 2021. Both men can make a leap towards gold with victory here. Defeat for Aliskerov and it’s back the the drawing board. A loss for Whittaker could spell disaster for his title hopes and career as a whole.
Ikram Aliskerov vs Robert Whittaker in Saudi Arabia. Who have you got?
