Issue 150

January 2017

Wrestlers have always been the perfect athletes for MMA. They have the perfect base for developing their skills and fighting in the cage.

The question is: can they adapt to life in 4oz gloves? This man certainly can.

Logan Storley came into the pro ranks as a four-time NCAA All-American at the University of Minnesota – a wrestling room that breeds champions. He may not look as physically impressive as fellow former Golden Gopher, Brock Lesnar, but he’s arguably more of a natural mixed martial artist than the former UFC heavyweight champion.

The 24-year-old has the heavy hips and great balance in top position you’d expect from a great grappler. None of his four opponents so far looked like they enjoyed fighting off their back against him.

Then there’s his power. The South Dakota native’s standup skills are, well, striking, but it’s his ground ‘n’ pound that’s really a sight to behold. This is no stall-happy positional grappler. When his fists start raining down, other fighters recoil in fear and pain until the referee steps in to put a stop to the carnage.

Arizona’s Power MMA has yet another terrifying, power-punching takedown machine. You’re looking at a welterweight who’s as close to a sure-thing as you’re likely to see.

3 MORE TO KEEP AN EYE ON

• GERALD MEERSCHAERT - USA

A Roufusport product, the RFA 185lb champ might not strike like Anthony Pettis, but he’s strong on his feet and possesses a ground game to make opponents look like fish out of water. He just needs a signature win to punch his ticket to the UFC.

• TAI TUIVASA - AUS

When Mark Hunt says you could ‘easily put him to sleep’, you know you’ve got power. ‘Bam Bam’ moves like a pure athlete, but he’s not a natural 265lb. That’s no problem Down Under but he’ll need to trim down and improve his cardio to tangle at the elite level.

• HERDERSON BATISTA - BRA

Unlike many Brazilians, ‘Capoeira’ didn’t build a record by crushing cans. Fast, powerful hands have helped him take out some decent opposition. It’ll just take another big win or two to confirm this man as the latest 155lb force to come out of South America.