Anthony Rocco Martin: Top 15 on the Horizon

After suffering back to back losses in his first two UFC appearances, Anthony Rocco Martin has gone on to compile a 9-3 UFC record since October 2014 and is currently ranked as the #19 UFC welterweight by world mma rakings. He holds notable victories over Alex White, Johnny Case, Ryan LaFlare, and Jake Matthews throughout his UFC career and is on the verge of cementing himself as a top 15 contender. The Illinois native is 5-1 in his last six UFC appearances with his only loss to Demian Maia in that timespan. Although he was defeated by seasoned Maia, Martin was able to keep the fight competitive and followed up with a unanimous decision victory over Ramazan Emeev several months later.

Martin has paid his dues and put in the work to earn himself a big fight. On June 6, 2020 he will face former top ranked welterweight Neil Magny in a bout that can surely launch him into the top 15 if he is able to defeat the dangerous Magny. Magny is coming off an impressive unanimous decision victory over Li Jingliang back at UFC 248 and looked better than ever. On June 6, both Martin and Magny will have the opportunity to announce their arrival to the top 15 of the UFC welterweight division.

At first glance, Martin seems to be heavily outmatched against the more experienced and taller Magny. Magny has fought higher caliber opponents and will enjoy a six-and-a-half-inch reach advantage over Martin. However, there is one key area that Martin holds a distinct advantage and will have to implement effectively if he is to have any hope of defeating Magny. Out of his seven losses, Magny has suffered four losses via submission and has been susceptible to the takedown which is apparent from his 60% takedown defense rate. Martin is the more polished grappler and has finished nine of his 17 opponents by submission in his professional career. The game plan for Martin is simple. Get the fight to the ground and attack Magny with a variety of submissions until something hits.

Official Prediction: I really like both fighters and think they can be top 15 talent, but I am going with Anthony Rocco Martin. His mindset, newfound approach and recent Octagon performances have convinced me he is ready to be a top 15 welterweight and will shine at UFC 250. Martin by second round submission!

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Andrew Sumian

Andrew is a lifelong follower of combat sports. His passion began as a child and has only grown as an adult. Andrew holds a bachelor's degree from Pepperdine University and a master's from Texas A & M University. Outside of combat sports, Andrew currently works as a program manager for an aerospace manufacturing company. He has trained Muay Thai for seven years and continues to spar and train on the weekends when time permits.

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