Rising Middleweight finisher Brendan Allen is set to face grappling expert Paul Craig this Saturday (Nov. 18, 2023) at UFC Vegas 82 inside UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Allen, at 27, holds an impressive 10-2 record in the Octagon, securing victories over notable fighters like Kevin Holland and Andre Muniz. Despite finishing 80% of his opponents via strikes or submissions, Allen doesn't always receive the recognition he deserves.
Trained under Henri Hooft at Sanford MMA, Allen showcases improved kickboxing skills. He effectively targets the legs, body, and head in his striking combinations, demonstrating a diverse range of attacks. His strong kicking game, particularly the chopping calf kick, has proven effective in past fights.
In the clinch, Allen's size advantage allows him to land powerful knees to the chin, showcasing his well-rounded skills. Notably, he excels against Southpaws, utilizing his lead right hand and versatile kicking to control the pace.
While Allen's wrestling skills are underutilized, he has demonstrated proficiency in chain wrestling, effectively transitioning between single and double-leg takedowns. Defensively, he faced challenges against Jacob Malkoun but still managed a win.
As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Allen boasts 13 submission victories, including five rear-naked chokes inside the Octagon. His opportunistic approach, emphasizing submissions over position, sets him apart. Allen's unique use of the rear-naked choke, switching arms repeatedly to secure the submission, demonstrates his strategic prowess.
At 27, Allen is poised to make a significant impact in the Middleweight division, with the potential to enter the title mix in the coming years. His diverse skill set and ability to finish top competition make him a formidable force in the Octagon.