UFC Fight Night is set to feature a heavyweight showdown as the main event, pitting Jairzinho Rozenstruik against Shamil Gaziev.
Jairzinho Rozenstruik Dominates in UFC Vegas 87 Headliner
Rozenstruik (13-5) has had a mixed bag of results recently, going 3-5 in his last eight fights after an explosive start to his UFC career. Known for his devastating power and counter-striking, Rozenstruik has faced some of the top competition in the division, demonstrating his ability to end fights with a single punch. Despite recent setbacks, including losses to Curtis Blaydes and Alexander Volkov, Rozenstruik bounced back with a knockout win over Chris Daukaus before falling to Jailton Almeida via submission. His strategy remains clear: keep the fight standing and utilize his kickboxing skills to land the knockout blow.
Shamil Gaziev
Gaziev (12-0), on the other hand, enters the Octagon with an undefeated record and significant momentum. Making his UFC debut with a second-round knockout over Martin Buday, Gaziev has shown he’s not just a striker but also possesses grappling skills. With most of his wins coming by way of quick finishes, Gaziev has demonstrated both power and the ability to end fights early. However, there are questions regarding his stamina and performance in longer bouts, given his exhaustive appearance in his lone fight that went the distance.
This matchup is set to be a critical test for both fighters. Rozenstruik aims to re-establish himself as a heavyweight contender by halting the rise of a promising newcomer. In contrast, Gaziev seeks to prove that he belongs among the division’s elite by taking out a recognized name. The fight’s outcome could hinge on whether it remains standing, playing to Rozenstruik’s strengths, or if Gaziev can utilize his grappling to bring the fight to the ground.
Predictions vary, with some analysts favouring Gaziev due to his grappling advantage and potential to secure a submission victory. Others see value in Rozenstruik’s knockout power, especially if Gaziev cannot close the distance without absorbing significant strikes.
What Unfolded
From the off-set Gaziev tried push Rozenstruik against the fence, but eat a clean combination for his troubles. Gaziev continues to march forward and take Rozenstruik down, but the shots were poor with not much conviction in the attempts. Rozenstruik found success dancing on the outside picking and choosing his shots, but landing. With a minute on the clock of the first round, Gaziev was able to get the fight to the floor, but didn’t have much time to effectively work.
A close second for the heavyweights, Rozenstruik was able to land, and Gaziev tried to grind his opponent against the fence and wear ‘Bigi Boy’ down.
In unfamiliar terroirity, Gaziev seems to be feeling it after ten-minutes of action. Rozenstruiks jab is finding it’s mark on a consistent basis, busting up the lips of Gaziev. Rozenstruik’s looking like the fresher fighter and starting to take over the fight, dictating the pace and landing at will,
Rozenstruik is feeling himself and playing with his food at this point. He’s controlling the fight with a jab, which Gaziev has no answer for. The UFC newcomer is exhausted and is punching back for Rozenstruik as we close in on round five.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
