Every fighter starts somewhere. Before the hype, before the Contender Series, before the UFC call — there’s the grind. Before They Blow Up is where we shine a light on prospects still in that phase.
I’m looking at a few rising talents with five fights or fewer that are on my radar. These aren’t fighters I expect to be making any waves anytime soon. These are fighters I have watched, and I think have a good future in this sport
Jakob Dyrup (5-0), Heavyweight
Someone quietly building a nice resume is Jakob Dyrup. Back in May, he had a really good performance against fellow prospect Akseli Kaasalainen. However, he still isn’t well known as a future heavyweight contender.
The 6’3″ heavyweight might not be the most imposing guy in the division. Nevertheless, he is not undersized by any means. He compensates for his physicality with some of the best IQ you will see in the division regionally. Moreover, he has the tools to bring the fight wherever he is. He is more likely to succeed having some solid striking fundamentals. Also, he has the grappling knowledge to accompany it. He is also a natural finisher.
With such a good trajectory, he will be signed to a big company by next year, with the potential to develop into a top fighter in the division
Thomas Blackorby (5-0), Welterweight
One of the most under-the-radar American prospects is Thomas Blackorby. The 24-year-old is undefeated both in his pro and ammy career.
Blackorby really represents the modern MMA archetype. He is super versatile and finds finishes wherever the fight goes. Additionally, he shows his cardio in case the fight goes long.
He is a really aggressive striker looking to close the distance as soon as possible. Furthermore, he tries to get into clinch positions where he really thrives. He can also take fights to the ground. There he establishes his physical dominance to fully control his opponents.
While still in development, I can see Blackorby developing into a relevant fighter for the welterweight division. This could happen in the near future.
Atabek Nurdinzhanov (2-0), Light Heavyweight
A personal dart throw of mine with immense potential is Atabek Nurdinzhanov. The Kyrgyz fighter is super athletic for the division (hopefully natural). He also has the skills to accompany it.
There isn’t a ton of tape on him yet. So far, he has looked extremely dominant by taking his opponents to the ground and mauling them. There are a lot of questions still with Nurdinzhanov. However, he has the potential to become one of the top fighters in the division in the next few years.
