MMA – Page 16 – Fight Matrix

Exclusive Interview with Salamat Isbulaev, Undefeated Pro-MMA Fighter

Posted on August 12, 2025 by Heather

Introduction

[#220 LW] Salamat Isbulaev (9-0) is a 27 year old professional MMA athlete. He is undefeated as a pro and has never gone the distance, with all finishes by either TKO or submission, and only one fight going past the first round. As an amateur, Isbulaev has had a record of 29-2. This is unusual, due to the fact that MMA fighters typically move from amateur to professional earlier in their career than he did. Currently, he is managed by Miras Temirbolat with Paradigm Sports. Salamat is the lightweight title holder for the Kazakh promotion Alash Pride FC, and is looking to working his way to signing with a major world-wide MMA organization.

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Heather

Combat Sports & Martial Arts Writer| Director of Partnerships & Marketing
I have been an avid viewer of Boxing and MMA for decades. Judo is the martial art that I most admire. At different periods in my life, I have practiced Judo. This piqued my interest in MMA since 2001. I had a 25 year career in healthcare and now I am pursuing my hobby and a new venture. Now I enjoy writing about combat sports and martial arts for FightMatrix.

www.fightmatrix.com

How MMA Stats Power Smarter Casino Betting

Posted on August 12, 2025 by A. J. Riot

betting strategy guide

Mixed martial arts (MMA) has surged in popularity, and its statistical depth now influences betting strategies beyond sportsbooks. Savvy punters leverage fighter analytics to refine wagers in unexpected areas, including online casino mit krypto platforms. Understanding strike accuracy, takedown defence, and endurance metrics can reveal patterns applicable to live-betting dynamics. This crossover between combat sports data and gaming odds reshapes risk assessment.

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Fight Matrix Program – UFC 319: Du Plessis vs. Chimaev (08-16-2025)

Posted on August 11, 2025 by Jason

Middleweight Championship (185)
[#1P4P][#4DD][#1][#1UFC] Dricus Du Plessis (23-2-0, +174) vs. [#4][#4UFC] Khamzat Chimaev (14-0-0, -210)
Dricus Du Plessis is the All-Time #4 ranked Middleweight fighter.
Khamzat Chimaev is the All-Time #31 ranked Middleweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Dricus Du Plessis (3-0-0)
2025-02-08: W vs. [#2MW] Sean Strickland (29-7-0) via UD (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)
2024-08-17: W vs. [#5MW] Israel Adesanya (24-5-0) via Submission (Face Crank) in 3:38 of round 4
2024-01-20: W vs. [#2MW] Sean Strickland (29-7-0) via SD (48-47, 47-48, 48-47)

Last 3 Fights: Khamzat Chimaev (3-0-0)
2024-10-26: W vs. [#10MW] Robert Whittaker (26-9-0) via Submission (Face Crank) in 3:34 of round 1
2023-10-21: W vs. [#4WW] Kamaru Usman (21-4-0) via MD (29-27, 29-27, 28-28)
2022-09-10: W vs. [#21WW] Kevin Holland (28-14-0) via Submission (Brabo Choke) in 2:13 of round 1

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Khamzat Chimaev	-210		64.98%
Elo K170	Dricus Du Plessis	2382.91	+88.41	62.46%
Elo Modified	Dricus Du Plessis	2309.13	+50.66	57.24%
Glicko-1	Dricus Du Plessis	2396.54	+42.21	56.04%
WHR	Dricus Du Plessis	2200.82	+45.60	56.53%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Dricus Du Plessis 31.6, Khamzat Chimaev 31.3
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Dricus Du Plessis 189, Khamzat Chimaev 294
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Even: Both have 1 win(s) against common opposition.
.

Featherweight (145)
[#8][#8UFC] Lerone Murphy (16-0-1, +116) vs. [*] Aaron Pico (13-4-0, -140)

Last 3 Fights: Lerone Murphy (3-0-0)
2025-04-05: W vs. [#12FW] Josh Emmett (19-5-0) via UD (48-47, 49-46, 48-47)
2024-10-26: W vs. [#19FW] Dan Ige (19-10-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2024-05-18: W vs. [#47FW] Edson Barboza (24-12-0) via UD (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)

Last 3 Fights: Aaron Pico (3-0-0)
2024-02-24: W vs. [*] Henry Corrales (21-8-0) via TKO (Punches) in 4:53 of round 1
2023-09-23: W vs. [#65FW] Pedro Carvalho (13-10-0) via TKO (Punches) in 3:05 of round 1
2023-04-22: W vs. [#311MW] James Gonzalez (11-8-0) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Aaron Pico	-140		55.74%
Elo K170	Lerone Murphy	2107.74	+240.04	79.93%
Elo Modified	Lerone Murphy	2049.17	+165.04	72.11%
Glicko-1	Lerone Murphy	2082.95	+156.57	71.12%
WHR	Lerone Murphy	1941.92	+177.74	73.56%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Lerone Murphy 34.0, Aaron Pico 28.9
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Lerone Murphy 133, Aaron Pico 539
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
.

Welterweight (170)
[#10][#10UFC] Geoff Neal (16-6-0, +212) vs. [#26][#22UFC] Carlos Prates (21-7-0, -260)
Geoff Neal is the All-Time #50 ranked Welterweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Geoff Neal (1-2-0)
2024-10-26: W vs. [#35WW] Rafael dos Anjos (32-17-0) via TKO (Knee Injury) in 1:30 of round 1
2024-02-17: L vs. [#8WW] Ian Garry (16-1-0) via SD (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)
2023-03-04: L vs. [#6WW] Shavkat Rakhmonov (19-0-0) via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in 4:17 of round 3

Last 3 Fights: Carlos Prates (2-1-0)
2025-04-26: L vs. [#8WW] Ian Garry (16-1-0) via UD (49-46, 48-47, 48-47)
2024-11-09: W vs. [#34WW] Neil Magny (30-13-0) via KO (Punch) in 4:50 of round 1
2024-08-17: W vs. [#66WW] Jingliang Li (19-9-0) via KO (Punch) in 4:02 of round 2

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Carlos Prates	-260		69.26%
Elo K170	Geoff Neal	1973.64	+62.62	58.91%
Elo Modified	Geoff Neal	1977.26	+74.60	60.57%
Glicko-1	Geoff Neal	2045.31	+55.97	57.98%
WHR	Carlos Prates	1934.25	+34.28	54.92%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Geoff Neal 34.9, Carlos Prates 32.0
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Geoff Neal 294, Carlos Prates 112
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Carlos Prates leads 1-0
.
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This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays

Posted on August 7, 2025 by Jason

Both parlays still in the green!

Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:

Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
Both fighters must have at least 5 fights, with at least 1 draw or 1 loss (excluding debut). More data makes WHR happy.
Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.

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How Investment Propelled MMA and Boxing to Global Fame

Posted on August 4, 2025 by A. J. Riot

The combat sports world has undergone a seismic shift in the past decade. Once limited to niche audiences and regional followings, both mix martial arts (MMA) and boxing have exploded onto the global stage. At the heart of this growth lies strategic investment, money that has supercharged production, expanded international markets, and turned fighters into household names far beyond their home countries.

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RFP 100: A Historic Milestone in Ukrainian MMA – Blending Fighting Spirit with Purpose

Posted on August 3, 2025 by Vitaliy Vovk

On July 31, 2025, in Kolomyia, Ukraine, Real Fight Promotion (RFP) commemorated a historic achievement — its 100th MMA event, titled “RFP 100 – Grand Prix: Series 5.”

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Vitaliy Vovk

MMA Promoter | Event Organizer | Analyst

Founder & President of Real Fight Promotion (RFP) – one of the longest-running and most recognized MMA organizations in Ukraine. Organizer of 100+ MMA events. Contributor, analyst, and Trusted Promoter collaborating with leading global MMA platforms.

https://rfpromo.com/

rfpromo.com/

This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays

Posted on July 31, 2025 by Jason

We hit a huge parlay last week! Let’s try again..

Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:

Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
Both fighters must have at least 5 fights, with at least 1 draw or 1 loss (excluding debut). More data makes WHR happy.
Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.

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Top Lessons MMA Fighters Can Teach Online Casino Players

Posted on July 30, 2025 by A. J. Riot

The connection between mixed martial arts (MMA) and fast-paced world of online casino gaming might seem very unlikely at first glance, but it is surprisingly strong. At their core, both thrive off mental discipline, relentless focus, and the ability to keep emotions in check, even under extreme pressure. The best casino players have a whole lot to learn from top MMA fighters, especially in terms of preparation, routine and attitude. In this guide, we will explore the surprising parallels between the fight cage and the digital casino table and uncover the lessons you can learn from MMA that will help you thrive in the online casino gaming world.

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Why New MMA Fans Are Flocking to Beginner-Friendly Sports Betting Platforms

Posted on July 29, 2025 by A. J. Riot

In 2025, a growing wave of first time bettors are stepping into the fast-paced world of MMA sports betting. But instead of diving straight into complex odds or expert level parlays, many are turning to beginner friendly platforms that make the experience easy, accessible, and far less intimidating. These sites are designed with new fans in mind offering clean interfaces, simple betting options, and educational resources that help users gain confidence while learning the ropes. For those looking to get started, there’s no shortage of top-rated sports betting platforms to try that cater specifically to newcomers.

Even those initially just tuning in to see big-name fighters like Jon Jones or Sean O’Malley are finding themselves intrigued by the thrill of placing a well-timed bet. And rather than being pushed into complicated betting environments, they’re being welcomed into platforms built to ease that transition.

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Understanding how crypto and blockchain tech are shaking up the world of MMA

Posted on July 28, 2025 by A. J. Riot

The world of MMA has been known for its raw intensity and passionate fanbase, but a new transformation, far beyond the octagon, is happening. The rise of crypto and blockchain technology is rapidly reshaping how MMA operates. From fighter compensation to fan engagement, these digital innovations are getting more integrated into the sport.

The rate at which crypto is being accepted in different industries is rapidly increasing. In 2025, at least 28% of American adults own crypto, with 14% more planning to invest before the year ends. Most of them work with Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin. With the current trajectory of Bitcoin, most investors, like Conor McGregor of UFC, follow Bitcoin price in real time to know what their next move will be.

The integration of crypto into the world of MMA is shaking things up, opening the door to fresh opportunities, partnerships and innovation. This article will look at some of the developments that are happening as the sport changes its operations in and out of the cage.

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The Main Components of MMA Training

Posted on July 25, 2025 by A. J. Riot

https://pixabay.com/photos/bjj-jiu-jitsu-jiu-jitsu-jiujitsu-8111387/

In this article, we will look at the main components of training for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes. From sparring and bag work, to strength and conditioning and post-training recovery, we will examine the basics of MMA training. So read on for some tips on how to train like a pro!

Sparring

They say iron sharpens iron. Live, contact sparring is one of the main differentiators between traditional martials arts which became useful as a part of MMA, and the purely theoretical arts focused on forms/kata and without sparring with a resisting opponent. For example, striking arts such as Muay Thai, boxing, and kickboxing all emphasize contact sparring. Similarly, grappling based arts like wrestling, judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are focused on ‘rolling’ or grappling with a resisting opponent. Simulating live contact competition in practice is the reason why arts like Sambo work so well in MMA — and ones like Kung Fu do not.

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This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays

Posted on July 24, 2025 by Jason

Both parlays are still in the green! Woohoo!

Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:

Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
Both fighters must have at least 5 fights, with at least 1 draw or 1 loss (excluding debut). More data makes WHR happy.
Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.

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Diamond of a Career

Posted on July 22, 2025 by Vincent Juico

This content was originally published on https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/07/21/diamond-of-a-career/

DUSTIN POIRIER ends his UFC journey as one of the lightweight division’s most beloved and respected fighters—an interim champion, perennial high-performer and community pillar.

His legacy is defined by resilience, big-win performances, and a career built more than titles—it’s built on heart and impact.

The MMA community overwhelmingly praised Dustin Poirier—not just for his performance inside the cage, but also his integrity, work ethic and grace in retirement.

Fighters and media alike highlighted the dignity of stepping away on one’s own terms, while fans celebrated him as a “people’s champion” and role model.

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Vincent Juico

Vincent Juicio is a sports journalist covering basketball, mixed martial arts, boxing, American football-especially the San Francisco 49ers-and global sports issues. Known for his insightful analysis and a keen eye on both game strategy and broader sports trends, his work offers fans in-depth perspectives across multiple disciplines.

What Does Jon Jones’s Retirement Mean for UFC?

Posted on July 22, 2025 by A. J. Riot

In June 2025, Jon Jones shocked the UFC world by announcing his retirement, but nobody was betting on him reversing his decision less than one month later and ‘unretiring’ from UFC.

However, the 38-year-old is rapidly approaching the end of his career, and he will soon have to retire when his age and physical abilities finally get the better of him. The question being asked here is, what does Jon Jones’s retirement mean for the UFC?

Let’s dive straight in to find out.

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Fight Matrix Program – UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. de Ridder (07-26-2025)

Posted on July 21, 2025 by Jason

Middleweight (185)
[#6][#6UFC] Robert Whittaker (26-8-0, -162) vs. [#18][#15UFC] Reinier de Ridder (20-2-0, +133)
Robert Whittaker is the All-Time #4 ranked Middleweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Robert Whittaker (2-1-0)
2024-10-26: L vs. [#4MW] Khamzat Chimaev (14-0-0) via Submission (Face Crank) in 3:34 of round 1
2024-06-22: W vs. [#30MW] Ikram Aliskerov (16-2-0) via KO (Punches) in 1:49 of round 1
2024-02-17: W vs. [#10MW] Paulo Costa (15-4-0) via UD (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Last 3 Fights: Reinier de Ridder (3-0-0)
2025-05-03: W vs. [#34MW] Bo Nickal (7-1-0) via TKO (Knees) in 1:53 of round 2
2025-01-18: W vs. [#21WW] Kevin Holland (28-14-0) via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in 3:31 of round 1
2024-11-09: W vs. [#48MW] Gerald Meerschaert (37-19-0) via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) in 1:44 of round 3

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Robert Whittaker	-162		59.02%
Elo K170	Robert Whittaker	2124.73	+148.96	70.21%
Elo Modified	Robert Whittaker	2110.57	+109.07	65.20%
Glicko-1	Robert Whittaker	2173.56	+98.11	63.76%
WHR	Robert Whittaker	2000.64	+34.83	55.00%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Robert Whittaker 34.6, Reinier de Ridder 34.9
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Robert Whittaker 273, Reinier de Ridder 84
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
.

Bantamweight (135)
[#3][#3UFC] Petr Yan (18-5-0, -375) vs. [#19][#17UFC] Marcus McGhee (10-1-0, +289)
Petr Yan is the All-Time #10 ranked Bantamweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Petr Yan (2-1-0)
2024-11-23: W vs. [#9BW] Deiveson Figueiredo (24-5-1) via UD (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
2024-03-09: W vs. [#7BW] Yadong Song (22-9-1) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2023-03-11: L vs. [#1P4P][#2DD][#1BW] Merab Dvalishvili (20-4-0) via UD (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)

Last 3 Fights: Marcus McGhee (3-0-0)
2024-11-16: W vs. [#24BW] Jonathan Martinez (19-6-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2024-01-13: W vs. [#365BW] Gaston Bolanos (8-5-0) via TKO (Spinning Wheel Kick and Punches) in 3:29 of round 3
2023-08-12: W vs. [*] J.P. Buys (9-6-0) via KO (Punch) in 2:19 of round 1

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Petr Yan	-375		75.43%
Elo K170	Petr Yan	2126.82	+441.67	92.70%
Elo Modified	Petr Yan	2157.81	+467.66	93.66%
Glicko-1	Petr Yan	2214.70	+451.07	93.07%
WHR	Petr Yan	2073.60	+465.75	93.59%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Petr Yan 32.4, Marcus McGhee 35.2
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Petr Yan 245, Marcus McGhee 252
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
.

Middleweight (185)
[#29][#22UFC] Sharabutdin Magomedov (15-1-0, -555) vs. [#42][#30UFC] Marc-Andre Barriault (18-9-0, +400)

Last 3 Fights: Sharabutdin Magomedov (2-1-0)
2025-02-01: L vs. [#16MW] Michael Page (23-3-0) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
2024-10-26: W vs. [#100MW] Armen Petrosyan (9-5-0) via KO (Spinning Backfists) in 4:52 of round 1
2024-08-03: W vs. [#47MW] Michal Oleksiejczuk (21-9-0) via UD (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Last 3 Fights: Marc-Andre Barriault (1-2-0)
2025-05-10: W vs. [#66MW] Bruno Silva (23-13-0) via KO (Elbows and Punches) in 1:27 of round 1
2024-11-02: L vs. [#59MW] Dustin Stoltzfus (16-7-0) via KO (Punches) in 4:28 of round 1
2024-06-29: L vs. [#19MW] Joe Pyfer (14-3-0) via KO (Punches) in 1:25 of round 1

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Sharabutdin Magomedov	-555		80.90%
Elo K170	Sharabutdin Magomedov	1853.64	+291.74	84.28%
Elo Modified	Sharabutdin Magomedov	1865.19	+242.12	80.12%
Glicko-1	Sharabutdin Magomedov	1926.51	+242.50	80.15%
WHR	Sharabutdin Magomedov	1855.07	+261.83	81.87%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Sharabutdin Magomedov 31.2, Marc-Andre Barriault 35.4
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Sharabutdin Magomedov 175, Marc-Andre Barriault 77
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Even: Both have 1 win(s) against common opposition.
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