The UFC has officially announced a middleweight bout between Brendan Allen and Edmen Shahbazyan for June 7 at UFC Vegas 118. Both fighters will look to climb the rankings in what promises to be a compelling stylistic matchup. Allen has been on a strong run in the division, while Shahbazyan seeks to rebuild momentum after previous setbacks. The bout is expected to serve as a significant test for both men in the crowded middleweight landscape.
The UFC has made official a middleweight clash between Brendan Allen and Edmen Shahbazyan, scheduled for June 7 at UFC Vegas 118.
Allen, nicknamed "All In," enters the bout as the number-five-ranked middleweight in the world. The 30-year-old from the United States, who trains out of Kill Cliff FC, carries a record of 26-7-0 and has established himself as one of the division's most well-rounded threats. Standing six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach, Allen lands 3.59 significant strikes per minute at an impressive 53 percent accuracy and adds consistent wrestling pressure, averaging 1.56 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Shahbazyan, known as "The Golden Boy," enters looking to rebuild after a difficult stretch. The 28-year-old American, who trains at Xtreme Couture, holds a record of 16-5-0 and shares identical measurements with Allen — six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach. Shahbazyan is a volume striker, landing 3.8 significant strikes per minute, though his accuracy sits at 48 percent. He also contributes on the mat, averaging 1.62 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Allen is ranked fifth at middleweight, meaning a win for Shahbazyan would represent a significant leap back into title contention
- The physical symmetry — identical height, reach, and orthodox stances — puts the stylistic edge in sharp focus
- Both fighters generate strong grappling volume, which sets up potential for high-action scrambles throughout
