#10: Mitchell McKee
Age: 28
Representing: USA
Record: 10-0
Having McKee as the final prospect on this list just shows how much talent there is at bantamweight. He’s got what you look for in a prospect: a muscular frame, strong collegiate wrestling, aggression, power, and an 8-0 record with LFA. However, there are some small concerns that move him down marginally. McKee’s competition has been good but not great, and his best wins have come against other grapplers (Sean McPadden and Greg Fischer).
He can be one-dimensional, throwing hooks that leave him open to getting countered by jabs and other quicker shots. Mitchell has been hurt when brawling but his power makes up for it when he lands. Those hooks also open up McKee’s outstanding takedowns. He really shines on top with powerful hips and great leg usage in all positions. Ground and pound is his most effective weapon to finish fights. While his BJJ is solid and gets him in good positions, he’s yet to record a submission.
McKee has to avoid the trap of falling in love with the KO. It seduces many wrestlers and leads them away from their greatest natural advantage. He’s scored some great shots, including a massive hook in his most recent fight against Brazilian veteran Pedro Nobre (22-8-2). However, his defense and especially his head movement aren’t good enough to trade the way he does. McKee has a clear path to victory against most opponents and should focus on more straight strikes at range before using hooks when he wants to get to the wrestling. He has the grappling to win fights in the UFC right now, but may need another win to start 2026 to get the call.