Almabaev secured a third-round finish over Johnson, controlling the fight on the ground before locking in a Suloev stretch near the end of the final frame. The bout was described as an entertaining, dynamic contest featuring creative ground work from both fighters.
Sherzod Almabaev claimed a third-round submission victory over Jose "Zhakwarius" Johnson on June 27, 2026, finishing the fight with a Suloev stretch late in the final round after controlling large portions of the contest on the canvas.
Johnson, a 31-year-old orthodox fighter out of Twin Wolves MMA, entered the bout carrying a 16-10 record. Standing six feet tall with a 71-inch reach, he is a well-rounded competitor who lands 2.27 significant strikes per minute at an impressive 57 percent accuracy. His grappling credentials are also legitimate, averaging 0.69 takedowns and 0.7 submission attempts per 15 minutes, making him a credible threat in the clinch and on the mat.
Despite Johnson's ability to generate offense across multiple phases, Almabaev ultimately imposed his will on the ground, working through the final round before securing the Suloev stretch — a relatively rare finishing hold that requires precise positional control and timing. The tap came near the end of the third frame, capping what was characterized as an entertaining and dynamic performance featuring creative grappling exchanges from both men.
Why it matters
- The Suloev stretch finish underscores Almabaev's technical depth on the ground and ability to find submissions beyond conventional holds.
- Johnson's 16-10 record and consistent output made him a credible measuring stick; the loss deals a setback to any ranking aspirations he held.
- The described creativity and dynamism of the grappling exchanges suggests both fighters contributed to a notable contest worth reviewing for divisional scouts.
