By Caoilte de Barra
This week sees plenty of IMMAF alumni in action as many former medalists continue to progress in the pro ranks.
On Friday, October 28, Brave CF 65 sees five former IMMAF athletes in action. Two-time World Champion Jose Torres co-headlines the show against Izzeddine Al Derbani, and a win may earn him a title shot.
Three athletes that have graduated from the Bahrain team will also feature. Four-time medalist Shamil Gaziev will look to maintain his current run of form and stay undefeated as he takes on Pavel Dadliko. During his IMMAF days, Gaziev only ever saw the judges’ scorecards on one occasion, and his pro career has been similar so far after going the distance in his last bout. Gaziev could secure a title shot or potentially a call-up to the UFC with a win over Dadliko.
After going undefeated in his IMMAF days, Magomed Gadzhiyasulov is continuing that streak in the pro ranks. The 2019 Asian Championships gold medalist will face his toughest test to date in Mohamed Said Maalem. While his teammate, Abdulla Alyaqoob, squares off with Fouad Al Shami in a bantamweight contest.
Frieh Harasheh is also due to feature on the card. Despite not medalling at an IMMAF event, the Jordanian athlete has enjoyed a successful start to his pro career with BRAVE CF, and Friday will be his second outing for the promotion when he takes on the experienced Maysara Mohamed. The full event will be available to watch on BRAVE CF TV.
The following day at Cage Fight Series 12, 2018 Junior World Champion Ger Harris will make his second appearance of the year against Georgia’s Torinke Chakvetadze. Headlining the card, which will be live on UFC Fight Pass, will be 2018 European bronze medalist Bogdan Grad. The Austrian athlete currently boasts a pro record of 9-1.
Austria’s Daniel Schordje will also feature on the prelim section of the card, a month after disappointment at the 2022 European Championships.
Over in Spain, three former members of the Spanish national team setup will compete in WOW FC 7. Rafael Calderon, Juan Izquierdo and Alvaro Ucendo have all medalled in the IMMAF competition, with the former two making the podium at the most recent World Championships.
Lastly, across the pond in Australia, Brad Ramsey will make the walk as a pro for the fourth time at Eternal MMA 71. The undefeated prospect will have Kevin Kophamel across from him on the night, and it will be available to watch on UFC Fight Pass.
