Ikram Aliskerov, a rising star in the UFC’s middleweight division, has made an impressive impact with his dominant performances. Here are three of his best fights before facing Robert Whittaker at UFC Saudi Arabia:

Ikram Aliskerov vs. Phil Hawes (UFC 288):

• Date: May 6, 2023
• Result: Ikram Aliskerov def. Phil Hawes via KO (punch) – Round 1, 2:10
• Synopsis: In his UFC debut at UFC 288, Aliskerov faced Phil Hawes. Hawes started the fight with aggressive body kicks, but Aliskerov quickly turned the tide with a powerful right hand that knocked Hawes out cold. This victory showcased Aliskerov’s striking power and precision, marking an impressive start to his UFC career. Aliskerov’s knockout win earned him widespread recognition and established him as a formidable contender in the middleweight division.

Ikram Aliskerov vs. Warlley Alves (UFC 294):

• Date: October 21, 2023
• Result: Ikram Aliskerov def. Warlley Alves via TKO (strikes) – Round 1, 2:07
• Synopsis: At UFC 294, Aliskerov faced the experienced Warlley Alves. The fight began with Alves landing inside leg kicks, but Aliskerov responded with a stiff jab followed by a flying switch knee that floored Alves. Aliskerov then unleashed a barrage of strikes, forcing the referee to stop the fight. This victory improved Aliskerov’s record to 15-1 and solidified his reputation as a dangerous striker, further highlighting Aliskerov’s rapid rise in the UFC.
• Accolades: Performance of the Night

Ikram Aliskerov vs. Mário Sousa (Dana White’s Contender Series Season 6):

• Date: September 27, 2022
• Result: Ikram Aliskerov def. Mário Sousa via submission (Kimura) – Round 1, 2:09
• Synopsis: In a middleweight bout on Dana White’s Contender Series, Aliskerov showcased his grappling prowess against Mário Sousa. After some striking exchanges, Aliskerov successfully took the fight to the ground and applied his signature Kimura, forcing Sousa to submit. This victory demonstrated Aliskerov’s elite grappling skills, honed from his background as a multiple-time sambo champion. His dominant performance earned him a UFC contract and set the stage for his subsequent success in the organization.