UFC on ESPN 73: Salikhov vs. Medić takes place on November 8, 2025, featuring a welterweight showcase between Dagestan’s iconic “King of Kung Fu” Muslim Salikhov and Serbia’s knockout artist Uroš Medić. Both men are known for explosive striking and fight-ending power, promising one of the most exciting stylistic matchups on the card.
Muslim Salikhov
Muslim Salikhov (22–5) is one of the most accomplished Wushu Sanda practitioners to ever compete in MMA. Renowned for his spinning kicks, creative striking patterns, and ability to end fights in an instant, Salikhov has translated his elite striking pedigree into a successful UFC career. After early inconsistencies, he found his rhythm with highlight-reel victories over Nordine Taleb, André Fialho, Song Kenan, and most recently Carlos Leal Miranda, earning multiple Performance of the Night bonuses.
Salikhov’s style is built on timing and unpredictability—using feints, blitz attacks, and spinning techniques to keep opponents guessing. Despite being 41 years old, his knockout power and technical precision remain lethal. However, opponents who pressure him or mix in takedowns have found success disrupting his rhythm, a factor that could come into play against Medić.
Muslim Salikhov – Last 5 Fights:
Win vs. Carlos Leal Miranda – KO (Punch) – UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. de Ridder, July 26, 2025
Win vs. Song Kenan – KO (Spinning Wheel Kick) – UFC FN: Yan vs. Figueiredo, November 23, 2024
Win vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio – Decision (Split) – UFC on ESPN: Namajunas vs. Cortez, July 13, 2024
Loss vs. Randy Brown – KO (Punches) – UFC FN: Dolidze vs. Imavov, February 3, 2024
Win vs. André Fialho – TKO (Spinning Wheel Kick/Punches) – UFC FN: Nzechukwu vs. Cuțelaba, November 19, 2022
Salikhov’s keys are to control range, use lateral movement to frustrate Medić, and pick his moments to unleash spinning and counterstriking sequences. If he dictates the pace and maintains distance, his precision and experience could carry him to victory.
Uroš Medić
Uroš Medić (11–3), known as “The Doctor,” is one of Serbia’s most explosive MMA prospects. A natural finisher with nine knockout wins, Medić brings relentless aggression and elite power in both hands. His knockout of Tim Means with an uppercut and his spinning backfist finish of Matthew Semelsberger underscored his ability to end fights suddenly. In August 2025, he added another quick KO over Gilbert Urbina, reasserting himself as a dangerous contender at 170 pounds.
Medić thrives in chaos—pressing forward with volume and confidence, often overwhelming opponents who can’t handle his speed or power. However, his losses to Myktybek Orolbai and Punahele Soriano exposed holes in his defensive grappling and tendency to get caught when overcommitting. Against a seasoned counterstriker like Salikhov, discipline will be critical.
Uroš Medić – Last 5 Fights:
Win vs. Gilbert Urbina – KO (Punch) – UFC on ESPN: Dolidze vs. Hernandez, August 9, 2025
Loss vs. Punahele Soriano – KO (Punches) – UFC FN: Dern vs. Ribas 2, January 11, 2025
Win vs. Tim Means – KO (Uppercut) – UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez, April 27, 2024
Loss vs. Myktybek Orolbai – Submission (Neck Crank) – UFC FN: Allen vs. Craig, November 18, 2023
Win vs. Matthew Semelsberger – TKO (Spinning Backfist/Punches) – UFC 291, July 29, 2023
Medić’s keys are to pressure Salikhov early, force close-range exchanges, and rely on his speed and power to disrupt the veteran’s rhythm. If he can close distance before Salikhov sets up his kicks, the Serbian’s explosiveness could become the deciding factor.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup promises fireworks between two pure strikers. Salikhov brings elite timing, creativity, and veteran composure, while Medić offers youth, aggression, and devastating power. The first round will likely set the tone—Salikhov seeking to establish range and counters, Medić hunting for early momentum through pressure and combinations.
If Salikhov maintains control of the distance, his precision and movement could frustrate Medić and open up opportunities for spinning techniques. Conversely, if Medić can close the gap and trade in the pocket, his knockout power could overwhelm the aging veteran.
Prediction
The fight is a clash of experience versus explosiveness. Salikhov’s craft and timing will keep him competitive, but Medić’s youth, athleticism, and forward pressure could prove decisive as the exchanges heat up. Expect a striking battle with a highlight finish.
Prediction: Uroš Medić def. Muslim Salikhov via KO (Round 2)
A win would mark Medić’s breakout moment as a legitimate contender in the welterweight division, while Salikhov remains a dangerous challenge for any opponent who dares to strike with him.