Featherweights
Khusein Askhabov (23-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Jamall Emmers (18-6, 1-2 UFC)It has been at least a year in the making, but the Askhabov’s much-anticipated UFC debut has finally arrived. The Russian’s record jumps off the proverbial page, as no matter the level of competition, 23 wins against zero losses is always impressive, particularly since a vast amount of that work was done before he turned 21 years of age. Askhabov has only had four of those fights since 2016, but they have all been impressive showings that have seen him mix in some impressive wrestling and grappling to go along with some flashy striking. However, that recent success has all come at 135 pounds, which makes it a bit surprising that Askhabov is moving up to featherweight for this UFC debut. Askhabov has spent years at 145 pounds previously, but most of that slate represented his weakest competition, and he did not look anywhere near the physical force against his better opponents in that weight class. That makes for an interesting backdrop in this fight against Emmers, a powerful featherweight who could probably make a go of it as a lightweight. Emmers was a well-traveled veteran perennially on the verge of a call-up until the UFC finally rang in 2020, when he nearly got what would have been a huge win against Giga Chikadze. Overall, Emmers has typically been a tough out. A wrestler who has built out his striking through experience, Emmers can bring some defensive craft while also grinding his fights to a halt as needed. However, it has essentially been a lost year and a half for “Pretty Boy.” His last fight against Pat Sabatini saw him suddenly fall victim to a heel hook that has kept him out of action since August 2021. Askhabov himself has been inactive for nearly three years, so it will be fascinating to see how he looks here, particularly physically. If he has filled out during his mid-20s and in anticipation of this move up to featherweight, there is a chance he can be the type of bullying fighter who marked his best performances at 135 pounds. With that said, the bet is that Emmers can be a stout enough force to upset the apple cart for Askhabov, avoiding a knockout while turning this into an absolute grind. The pick is Emmers via decision.
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