Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Gerald Meerschaert: UFC Vegas 96 Main Card Preview and Prediction2 months ago
Edmen Shahbazyan and Gerald Meerschaert will battle in the middleweight division. Shahbazyan, known for his striking and finishing ability, will take on Meerschaert, a fighter with a strong grappling game and resilience.

Edmen «The Golden Boy» Shahbazyan

Age: 26

Record: 13-4

Recent Fights:

  • Win against A.J. Dobson (KO, Elbows and Punches)
  • Loss to Anthony Hernandez (TKO, Elbows and Punches)
  • Win against Dalcha Lungiambula (TKO, Punches)
  • Loss to Nassourdine Imavov (TKO, Elbows)
  • Loss to Jack Hermansson (Decision, Unanimous)

Gerald «GM3» Meerschaert

Age: 36

Record: 36-17

Recent Fights:

  • Win against Bryan Barberena (Technical Submission, Face Crank)
  • Loss to Andre Petroski (Decision, Split)
  • Loss to Joe Pyfer (TKO, Punches)
  • Win against Bruno Silva (Submission, Guillotine Choke)
  • Loss to Krzysztof Jotko (Decision, Unanimous)

Fight Analysis

Edmen Shahbazyan is known for his powerful striking, with a high percentage of his wins coming via knockout. His success in the UFC has been marked by his ability to end fights quickly and decisively. However, Shahbazyan has shown some vulnerabilities, particularly when fights extend beyond the first round or when he faces opponents who can match his power and push him into deep waters.

Gerald Meerschaert is a seasoned veteran with a heavy focus on grappling and submissions. His extensive submission record is a testament to his ground game expertise. Meerschaert’s strategy often involves absorbing damage to close the distance, secure a takedown, and work for a submission. His experience and submission skills make him a dangerous opponent for anyone who cannot avoid getting into grappling exchanges.

Shahbazyan’s primary advantage is his striking power. If he can keep the fight standing and avoid Meerschaert’s grappling game, he has a strong chance to secure a knockout. On the other hand, Meerschaert will likely look to absorb Shahbazyan’s early aggression and drag the fight to the ground where he can utilize his superior submission skills.

Prediction

Edmen Shahbazyan has the edge in striking and can finish fights quickly if he avoids the ground game. If he can prevent Meerschaert from closing the distance and getting the fight to the floor, he should be able to secure a knockout.

Gerald Meerschaert, however, is a seasoned grappler and submission specialist. If he can withstand Shahbazyan’s early onslaught and get the fight to the ground, his chances of securing a submission are high.

Edmen Shahbazyan wins via TKO. Shahbazyan’s striking prowess and power give him the edge, and if he can keep the fight standing, he should be able to capitalize on his knockout power to secure a victory.