Rising UFC Star Azamat Bekoev Makes Statement with Dominant Performance at UFC Des Moines
The MMA world just witnessed what might be the arrival of the next big thing in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. Azamat Bekoev put on a clinic earlier tonight (Saturday, May 3, 2025) at UFC Des Moines, leaving fans and analysts buzzing about his potential championship future.
Fighting inside Wells Fargo Arena on the ESPN2/ESPN+ broadcast, Bekoev didn’t just win – he made a statement that echoed throughout the division.
Bekoev’s Breakout Performance Stuns Des Moines Crowd
From the moment Bekoev stepped into the octagon, there was something different about his presence. The confidence was palpable, but it wasn’t the usual pre-fight bravado we often see. This was the silent assurance of someone who knew exactly what they were capable of.
I’ve covered hundreds of fights over the years, and you can tell when someone has “it.” Bekoev has it in spades.
His combination of technical striking, powerful wrestling, and fight IQ was on full display as he systematically broke down his opponent. The Des Moines crowd, initially split in their allegiances, gradually unified behind the sheer brilliance they were witnessing.
Technical Breakdown: What Makes Bekoev Special
What separates Bekoev from other rising prospects is his complete skillset. Unlike many fighters who rely heavily on either striking or grappling, Bekoev seamlessly transitions between both realms with deadly efficiency.
| Skill Area | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Striking | 9 | Precise, varied attack patterns, excellent distance management |
| Wrestling | 9.5 | Explosive takedowns, superior control, versatile entries |
| Submission Game | 8 | Threatening from multiple positions, chain submissions effectively |
| Fight IQ | 9 | Excellent adaptability, strategic approach, calm under pressure |
His cardio deserves special mention. Even in the third round, Bekoev maintained the same explosive power and technical precision he showed in the opening minutes – a rare quality in the light heavyweight division.
The Dagestani Connection
If Bekoev’s style looks familiar to hardcore fans, it’s no coincidence. Coming from the same region that produced Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, and other dominant wrestlers, Bekoev brings that signature Dagestani pressure and grappling excellence to the 205-pound division.
But don’t mistake him for just another wrestler. His striking has a technical fluidity that many from his region don’t develop until much later in their careers, if ever.
“His stand-up is already more advanced than Khabib’s was when he became champion,” one cageside analyst remarked to me during the fight. “And his wrestling might be just as good.”
What’s Next for the Light Heavyweight Prospect?
After tonight’s performance, the UFC matchmakers have a serious talent on their hands. Bekoev improved his UFC record to 4-0 (15-0 overall), and each victory has been more impressive than the last.
While a title shot isn’t immediately in the cards, a top 10 opponent certainly makes sense for his next outing. Names like Jamahal Hill, Magomed Ankalaev, or even a veteran like Jan Blachowicz would provide the perfect test to see if Bekoev is truly ready for the elite level.
The light heavyweight division has been searching for its next dominant force since Jon Jones moved to heavyweight. Alexander Volkov currently holds the belt, but the division lacks the kind of long-term dominant champion that defines an era. Could Bekoev be that fighter? After tonight, it’s hard to argue against the possibility.
Fan Reaction: Social Media Explodes
The MMA community wasted no time reacting to Bekoev’s performance. Within minutes of the final bell, “Bekoev” was trending on Twitter, with fans and fighters alike sharing their impressions:
“This dude is the real deal. Light heavyweight just got interesting again.” – @MMAFanatic
“Haven’t seen someone look this dominant at 205 since prime Jon Jones. Scary potential.” – @FightAnalyst
Even UFC veterans chimed in, with former light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill posting: “Impressive showing tonight. Always room at the top for real ones who can back it up.”
The Bigger Picture: A Division Revitalized
For years, the light heavyweight division has struggled to recapture the excitement it had during the Jones-Cormier era. With Bekoev’s emergence alongside other rising stars like Aleksandar Rakić returning from injury, fans may finally have the compelling matchups and potential rivalries that make a division must-watch.
UFC Des Moines might not have been the most hyped card of the year, but it may well be remembered as the night one of the sport’s next big stars announced himself to the world. Remember the name: Azamat Bekoev. Something tells me we’ll be hearing it for years to come.
Did you catch Bekoev’s performance tonight? What did you think of his showing and who would you like to see him face next? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: Image via Vox