Issue 048
April 2009
Rookies, young blood, newcomers; whatever you want to call them, it is always the next generation of fighters who will shape how the sport develops. The old guard lay the foundations for the young bucks to build upon, so we decided to highlight some of the hot young talent coming up through the ranks who are set to make an impact on MMA.
Jon Jones
In Brief
21-year-old, super-athletic light heavyweight wrestling-prodigy.
The Good
Some of the best Greco-Roman wrestling in the UFC, incredibly fast learner to MMA.
Known For
Amazing high-amplitude throws and an unorthodox striking style (inspired, he says, by kung fu movies).
Most Recent Fight
A decision win against Stephan Bonnar, UFC 94.
Must-see Fight
The Stephan Bonnar fight – Jones tossed Bonnar around like a rag doll for three rounds.
Dustin Hazelett (12-4-0)
Cincinnati, Ohio
In Brief
Bearded submission wizard and training partner of Rich Franklin.
The Good
His slick submission skills, courtesy of trainer Jorge Gurgel.
Known For
Apart from the luscious beard and massive tattoo on his leg, being a contender for last year’s ‘submission of the year’.
Most Recent Fight
A submission win over Tamdan McCrory, UFC 91.
Must-see Fight
His fight with Josh Burkman, which Hazelett finished with one of the best armbars the UFC has ever seen.
Cain Velasquez (4-0-0)
San Jose, California
In Brief
Fearsome heavyweight out of the American Kickboxing Academy, who nobody wants to fight.
The Good
Superb wrestling skills (he is a college champion) combined with a ‘rough ‘em up’ style.
Known For
Aside from his ‘Brown Pride’ tattoo, his imposing physicality, drive, and focus.
Most Recent Fight
A two round beatdown of Denis Stojnic, Ultimate Fight Night 17.
Must-see Fight
Any of his UFC outings - all are equally impressive.
Dong Hyun Kim (11-1-1)
Busan, Korea
In Brief
Talented submission grappler and all-rounder from Korea.
The Good
Excellent judo, submission grappling and ground ‘n pound.
Known For
His awesome nickname, ‘Stun Gun’.
Most Recent Fight
A three-round battle with Karo Parisyan, UFC 94.
Must-see Fight
The split-decision loss to Parisyan – Kim lost by the narrowest of margins in a thrilling encounter.
Junie Browning (3-0-0)
Lexington, Kentucky
In brief
Hyper-talented, foul-mouthed, borderline alcoholic, white trash.
The Good
Heavy hands, quick learner and strong wrestling. Tonnes of heart.
Known For
His drunken antics on The Ultimate Fighter.
Most Recent Fight
A solid submission win over Dave Kaplan, TUF 8 finale.
Must-see Fight
The Kaplan win showed a real improvement and a new Junie, one with discipline.
Jim Miller (13-1-0)
Whippany, New Jersey
In Brief
25-year-old former college wrestler-turned-MMA fighter.
The Good
Excellent grappling, solid hands, good training partner in his brother Dan, also a fighter.
Known For
Tearing up the American North East scene before entering the UFC.
Most Recent Fight
A decision win over Matt Wiman, Ultimate Fight Night 16.
Must-see Fight
His submission win over Pride veteran David Baron.
Jose Aldo (13-1-0)
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
In Brief
Spunky Brazilian featherweight making waves in the WEC.
The Good
Fast hands, sharp ground game, and plenty of ambition.
Known For
Finishing his last three fights in the WEC, all via KO / TKO.
Most Recent Fight
A TKO win over Rolando Perez, WEC 38.
Must-see Fight
Any of his WEC fights – he goes at 100 miles per hour until his opponents are finished.
...
