Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at TUF 22 competitor and former RFA Champion Mehdi Baghdad as he takes on American Chris Wade at Fight Night 81. Mehdi “The Sultan” Baghdad Hometown: La Seyne-sur Mer, France Age: 30 Height: 6’1” Reach: 75” Weight Class: Lightweight Camp: Team Black House Career Record: 11-2 Key Wins: Artem Lobov (TUF 22) Key Losses: Charles Oliveira, Juan Manuel Puig Background The former RFA lightweight champion enters the UFC having previously fought on TUF 22 winning his opening round matchup with Artem Lobov prior to losing his second round matchup with Julian Erosa. He’s previously fought as a kickboxer. Strengths
- Striking background in kempo karate and Muay Thai
- Balanced striking attack
- Really nice kicking game with snap in his kicks
- Strong in the clinch
Weaknesses
- Poor footwork
- Striking defense needs work
- Has been taken down regularly in previous fights
- Can be controlled by a good wrestler
Matchup with Chris Wade A tough debut fight in the UFC for the former RFA Champion. Baghdad is a striker who does well when given space to open his kicking game. He certainly does well in the clinch and that is something we will see at points in this fight, but it will be Wade’s constant pressure that will cause problems for the Frenchman. Baghdad is most dangerous on the feet, so expect the American to implement a wrestling focused game plan to nullify Baghdad’s strengths. Look for Wade to control this fight mainly on the ground en route to a clear decision. UFC Ceiling Mehdi Baghdad is yet another RFA fighter making his debut on his card. He’s certainly a veteran of the fight game having faced good competition including featherweight top ten mainstay Charles Oliveira. Baghdad has trained with strong camps including Team Black House where he is currently. In striking matchups, Baghdad will certainly hold his own, but he is going to struggle against grapplers. Given his experience, it’s difficult to see Baghdad improving much more to contend with those grapplers. He’s a fighter that could spend a couple years in the UFC and will be pushed towards action fights after his debut. He’s not a fighter that will be competing against the division’s best. Fight Film Check out Mehdi Baghdad in some of his most recent fights: Mehdi Baghdad vs. Evan Delong Mehdi Bahgdad vs. Zach Jusola (highlights)