Global Watchlist: The Best MMA Prospect From Each Country

Slovenia

 

One of the best heavyweight prospects just so happens to come from Slovenia in Miha Frlic (6-0-1). After starting his pro career with a draw, he’s won his next six and has a 100% finish rate. At his stature, you wouldn’t expect him to be successful, but he’s been a wrecking ball—a physical wrestler with a mauling top position. Wild on the feet, but has a crazy chin and is constantly pressing the pace. He took the hype from Shah Kamali when he beat him, and now he’s the one to watch.

 

South Africa

 

South Africa has a ton of fighters in their database and a lot to go through. I found myself interested the most in Coenie Lamprecht (2-0). The young man is only 19 but has been active for a long time. He has a youth MMA record of 23-4 and was a three-time National champion and a World Youth IMMAF champ. Outside of MMA, his BJJ record is 102-10. Lamprecht is still looking to improve his striking, but his jiu-jitsu is nasty. He’s quick to transition and attack subs. In his two pro fights, he has a sub win off his back and on top, so he’s dangerous everywhere.

 

Spain

 

Spain is held under a microscope, with Ilia Topuria being one of UFC’s biggest stars. Someone I’m high on is “The Boogeyman” David Hervias (2-0). 20-2 as an amateur, with both losses coming to legit guys. A two-time IMMAF European champion and a Worlds bronze and silver medalist. Hervias has a 6’4″ frame that he uses to impose his will on the ground and in the clinch. Only 23 at 185, so Hervias is gonna be a staple in the division for a long time.

 

Suriname

 

Suriname has only had Jairzinho Rozenstruik in the UFC, but Tyjani Beztati (1-0) is primed for big things. Beztati is very new to MMA, but it’s what he’s done in Kickboxing that has the hype surrounding him. He’s a former Glory Kickboxing lightweight champion with a record of 27-5-2. Most of the time, when kickboxers transition over to MMA, they are in their 30s, but Beztati is only 28. He beat a bum in his debut but showcased his kickboxing, ending the fight with damaging leg kicks.