#5: Khalim Nazruloev
Age: 27
Representing: Tajikistan
Record: 12-0
Of the fighters on this list, Nazruloev may have the lowest chance of getting to the UFC in 2026. However, that’s mainly due to his contract with RCC in Russia, which hasn’t sent many fighters to other promotions recently. He also has a more methodical control-based wrestling style than guys like Chopurov or Duysheev. Khalim has still managed to finish 8/12 fights as a pro and has the talent for top-level competition.
Nazruloev has solid leg kicks at range, though he can be over-reliant on them and could mix his attacks more. His boxing is simple but accurate, and he keeps a tight guard to deflect most of what comes back. Everything he does on the feet is ultimately a way to get to takedowns. His shots are so powerful that he can finish even when entering from long range. Nazruloev’s double-legs are particularly nasty, but he can chain techniques and use trips at the fence to get on top.
Once Nazruloev has a dominant position, he doesn’t rush to progress but is effective at using pressure, mat returns, and strikes to gradually drain his foes. His stamina allows him to push hard late into fights and he weaponizes his cardio to drain his opponents. Great instincts for when to increase the volume and power of strikes allow Khalim to get TKOs without wasting tons of energy getting blocked. He’ll take submissions if they’re given, but focuses more on top control and cumulative damage.
Nazruloev is 8-0 in RCC against good but not great competition, most commonly experienced Brazilians. They’ve tried to catch him with BJJ tricks but have had no answer to his crushing wrestling. Two wins for ONE against 8-1 and 4-0 prospects proved that he can succeed outside of his home promotion. However, he’s since returned to RCC. Nazruloev doesn’t have the absurd ceiling of some guys on this list, but he’s a proven winner with an effective style and the physicality to implement it. It’s more likely he ends up in ACA, Russia’s top show, but I’d be happy to see him in the UFC or PFL instead.