#6: Shakhban Gapizov
Age: 26
Representing: Russia
Record: 5-0
Gapizov has the least pro experience of anyone on this list, but don’t let that fool you. His 13-1 amateur career culminated in the 2021 IMMAF world title after beating a series of excellent opponents. His only setback came early in his career against Muhidin Abubakar, who’s now an elite flyweight prospect. Gapizov’s ammy experience is obvious in how polished and composed he is in the cage.
After demolishing three cans, he debuted in pop-MMA promotion Nashe Delo against Erkin Pratov (6-0). This was a good grappling showcase and ended with an RNC late R3 after Gapizov clearly won most of the fight. He’s most comfortable on the mat but can do it all with brutally powerful kicks, quality boxing, and varied angles and speed of his attacks. He’s skinnier than some on this list but his strength and leverage are undeniable, while his speed is a major asset.
Gapizov’s breakout win came a year ago against Mukhamed Eminov (18-2-1), an outstanding grappler with tricky BJJ who’s long been a boogeyman in Russia. I expected a competitive fight between the upstart prospect and established star, but Shakhban took it to him. From the opening, Gapizov showcased great scrambles, mat returns including a beautiful foot sweep, and accurate GnP to finish the fight towards the end of R1. A straight shot stunned Eminov, then a flurry of hooks ended things and gave Gapizov his first title.
He returned to Eagle FC early this month, but that fight unfortunately ended as a no-contest. EFC doesn’t hold many events nowadays, but they’ve sent fighters to DWCS before. It may be a year too early for Gapizov to make the UFC leap, but in terms of talent he’s ready now.