Javad Mahjoub vs Joel Faglier

👊 Mahjoub heads into his UFC debut boasting a perfect 5-0 record. The Iranian heavyweight, who represented his country in Olympic judo, has finished four of his five professional bouts inside the opening round, tallying three knockouts and one submission. Faleye also remains unbeaten, with six wins—five of them coming inside the distance. In February, the American went the full three rounds against former UFC fighter Cody East, and now steps into the Octagon after being called up as a late replacement for Mahjoub’s original opponent.

Mahjoub’s Olympic-level grappling credentials should be his biggest asset in this matchup. He excels at imposing a heavy clinch, executing takedowns, and creating opportunities for ground-and-pound from top position. Faleye is no slouch on the mat either, having secured three of his victories by submission, so controlling him won’t be straightforward. Still, Mahjoub has already demonstrated his ability to assert physical dominance early, and with Faleye stepping in on short notice, it could prove difficult for him to neutralize such a specialized wrestling style. Prediction: Javad Mahjoub to win.