Samandar Murodov, 26, Tajikistan, 11-0-0
Murodov is perhaps the most ready prospect on this list. The Tajik fighter, based in Moscow, Russia, is a relentless pressure grappler who smothers opponents on the ground. Murodov holds wins over Jonathan Piersma, Abdurakhman Alimagomedov, Maxim Shvets, and Gian Siqueira. Names that round out a premier resume that rivals current rostered UFC fighters.
The strengths in Murodov’s game lie in his double-leg takedown entries. With a speed that’s eerily similar to the elite grapplers of the division. At his best, Murodov is syncing up a submission or finishing with nasty GnP. His cardio and experience outside of the first round are what make him most valuable. Despite not competing since August 2024, Murodov remains one of the top pound-for-pound prospects in the world. He would be an immediate talent boost for any promotion.