Aslanbek Badaev provided analysis of Azamat Bekoev's recent showing at UFC Vegas 115, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in his performance. Badaev noted that while Bekoev possesses heavy striking power, he remains technically raw and absorbs too many strikes. He also pointed out that Bekoev has wrestling skills but doesn't utilize them, likely due to fear of being forced to stand. Badaev recalled Bekoev as a solid fighter during his ACA days but emphasized that significant work is needed and that restructuring his approach at this stage of his career will be very difficult. The veteran coach's assessment suggests Bekoev faces an uphill battle to adapt and improve his overall game.
Veteran coach Aslanbek Badaev offered a candid breakdown of Azamat Bekoev's performance at UFC Vegas 115, delivering praise for the Russian heavyweight's raw power while identifying clear gaps that he believes will be difficult to close.
Bekoev, who competes out of American Top Team and carries a professional record of 20-5-0, is 30 years old and brings notable numbers to the cage. He lands 4.57 significant strikes per minute at a 52 percent accuracy rate, and his 3.48 takedowns per 15 minutes signal a legitimate wrestling base. Despite that grappling output, Badaev pointed out that Bekoev appears reluctant to use those skills, suggesting the hesitancy may stem from a fear of being brought into a standing exchange on his opponent's terms rather than his own.
Badaev acknowledged that Bekoev hits hard, but flagged that the six-foot, 183-centimeter fighter — who carries a 72-inch reach — absorbs too much damage in return and remains technically unrefined in his overall approach. The coach, who knew Bekoev from his time competing in ACA, described him as a solid prospect during that period but was measured in his optimism, noting that rebuilding fundamental habits at this point in a fighter's career is a steep challenge.
Why it matters
- Bekoev's takedown volume suggests untapped potential that his coaching setup has not yet unlocked in UFC competition
- The striking accuracy numbers are reasonable, but Badaev's concern over damage absorbed points to defensive holes that elite opponents will exploit
- At 30, Bekoev has limited time to overhaul his style, making the pace and direction of his development over the next few fights critical to his UFC future
