Muslim Salikov

Name: Muslim Salikhov
Nickname: King of Kung Fu
Professional Record: 11-1
Weightclass: Welterweight
Age: 32
Height:
Nationality: Russia
Gym Affiliation:
Accolades: Sanshou World Champion
Rank: 6
Upcoming Fight: 1/2/17
Overall Rating: ★★★★★

Striking Skill

Overall Technique ★
Boxing
Kick Technique
Power
Striking Defense
Footwork/Movement

Grappling Skill

Submissions★
Submission Defense
Guard ★
Positioning
Takedowns
Takedown Defense
Clinch

Salikhov has a storied fight background.  He is a Sanshou (wushu sanda) world champion.  He was a top notch wushu sanda competitor.  As you might expect, Salikhov has very good striking skills.  His striking is very diverse.  He has some power in his punches and at 170 pounds is a real danger on the feet to anyone.  Salikhov’s base brings some similarities to former UFC figher, Cung Le.  While not as explosive with his kicks as Le, Salikhov certainly has a wide arsenal of attacks.   He is dangerous moving forward as well as backwards.   In the past Salikhov has trained with the Phuket Top Team, expanding his mixed amrtial arts game.  His takedowns are very solid, but they look more like sanshou takedowns than pure wrestling takedowns.  I have a few concerns with Salikhov.  First, I would have some concern over his ability to defend submissions.  I am certain he is improving that aspect of his game, but that would seem to be area where he would be most vulnerable.  I would also wonder how he would do on his back.  The main concern is his age.  I still think Salikhov has a lot to offer, but he is no spring chicken.  That being said, his incredible standup game makes him a threat to anyone.  I would love to see Salikhov get his shot in a bigger promotion.  However, out of the guys on this list, he may be a long shot to head to a North American promotion.