The UFC returns to the United States with yet another Fight Night card. Among the fights in store for the fans at UFC Vegas 69, we will see Jamall Emmers vs Khusein Askhabov in a featherweight bout in the prelims.
Replacing Cory Sandhagen and Marlon Vera, fans will now see Jessica Andrade vs Erin Blanchfield headlining the event. With some really talented and notable fighters making an appearance on the night, the card will be a good event for the spectators. As such, one of the fights to look out for will be Jamall Emmers taking on the newcomer, Khusein Askhabov.
Ever since making his way to the UFC, Emmers has been a bit of a hit and a miss. Most notably, the 33-year-old took #8 ranked featherweight, Giga Chikadze to deep waters in his debut. Eventually losing the fight via split decision, many were impressed with his performance on the night.
However, he has won once and lost again since that fight. Now, he faces Askhabov, a super-prospect from the UAE. Known to be a dominant champion and a solid fighter, the 28-year-old is expected to put up a debut to remember. But with a clear and obvious increase in the level of opponents, will Askhabov be able to replicate the same success in the UFC?
UFC Vegas 69: Jamall Emmers vs Khusein Askhabov Stats
| Stats | Jamall Emmers | Khusein Askhabov |
|---|---|---|
| Wins | 18 | 23 |
| Losses | 6 | 0 |
| Height | 1.78 m | 1.73 m |
| Division | Featherweight | Featherweight |
| Reach | 1.88m | 1.75 cm |
| Age | 33 | 28 |
Emmers vs Askhabov: Fight Breakdown
Despite his time in the UFC, Emmers is not the favorite to win this fight. Currently, 1-2 in the UFC, his performances, though commendable, have been nothing to write home about. On the other hand, Khusein Askhabov is coming into the fight with an unblemished 23-0 record.
Although the Russian fighter has been away from the action for almost 3 years, expect him to still be as good, if not better than before. Similarly, Emmers is also coming off a near-2-year layoff and will be looking to get back to winning ways. A solid, technical boxer, “Pretty Boy” Emmers likes to create a lot of pressure and is an able contender on the mats as well.
"I always wanted to be a Ninja Turtle or a ninja so this is the closest thing I can get to it."
Jamall Emmers (@PrettyBoyemmers) is thrilled to be back in action at #UFCVegas69 🔊🆙
— UFC News (@UFCNews) February 16, 2023
However, Emmers also has a habit of putting himself in dangerous situations, and against an explosive striker like Askhabov, it could be a costly mistake. Moreover, aside from his striking prowess, “Nohcho” Askhabov is also a very good wrestler and has collected 10 submissions throughout his career. Not just that, the Russian is also very proactive and hardly ever sits back.
Head to head, Askhabov leads in almost all parameters. As such, Emmers could be facing his toughest opponent yet. However, Jamall can make life difficult for the Russian if he fights soundly, and leaves fewer openings for him. Additionally, the American must keep the fight on his feet at all times. If it goes to the ground, it could be an early night for him.
