When you hear about a fighter from Dagestan, Russia, many immediately think that the fighter is just another wrestler training with Khabib. But that is not the case with this one-eyed Dagestani native. In 2016, Shara “Bullet” Magomedov suffered an eye injury during one of his fights. With this injury, it will be difficult to get a fight permit in the US. That is why we fans currently only see him fight when the UFC travels to Abu Dhabi or Saudi Arabia. But now, after three consecutive wins in the UFC and after becoming a favorite throughout the MMA community, the question is how high Sharaputdin’s potential still is.
Photo by FansidedMMA, photo taken by Amy Kaplan
Sharaputdin’s blanket?
After his short-notice win on Saturday over Michael Olkekiejczuk, now ranked 20th in the middleweight division, Sharaputdin’s striking power is improving with each fight. Still, he must continue to work on his takedown and striking defense. Since he only has one eye, he continues to face stronger competition. His opponents will try to hurt his one good eye. Not only will his future opponents target him standing up, but the stronger competition, especially in the top 20, will also know how to attempt takedowns and look for ground strikes. Sharaputdin’s peak in the UFC can be in the top 15 in the middleweight division if he can improve certain aspects of his game. His striking power is solid, but improving his takedown and ground defense could take him to the next level. That would help him secure a spot among the top fighters in the division.
Photo by Sharaputdin Magomedov, image from The US Sun
Diploma
Shara said in a post-fight interview that his contract was up and he hopes the UFC re-signs him. That will most likely happen as he has a 3-0 record in the UFC and is now becoming a fan favorite. The 30-year-old one-eyed phenom is quickly approaching the top 15 in the middleweight division and should have more exciting fights coming up soon. If he makes some adjustments, his talent should make it into the top 10. For more articles, click here.