Introduction
Tuesday, August 19th, French lightweight prospect Dylan Salvador will be in action for Dana White’s Contender Series, where he will be looking continue his winning ways against Bolaji Oki. He will be looking for another win, as Salvador looks to impress the UFC brass and score a UFC contract. He represents American Top Team Atlanta, a solid camp in MMA. Let’s take a closer look at this prospect as this week’s “Prospect Spotlight.”
Strengths
Kickboxing: Salvador has an extensive Muay Thai and kickboxing background, fighting in big kickboxing promotions such as Glory and Kunlun. He brings that style with him to the cage, utilizing the great movement and technique that has brought him success in the striking field. In his biggest career win against Arman Ospanov, he utilized excellent punch and kick combinations to accumulate damage and eventually force a stoppage. There won’t be many that can match his technical striking on the feet.
Offensive Submissions: Surprisingly, Salvador has a good submission arsenal despite being a striker by trade. Four of his five wins come by way of tapout, with two rear-naked chokes, an anaconda choke and a von Flue choke. He is very good offensively from top position, where he does have the ability to find openings and grab his opponent’s neck. Don’t sleep on this striker’s grappling.
Needs Improvement
Counter Wrestling: Like most Muay Thai stylists making the crossover to the UFC, Salvador’s counter wrestling is the biggest need for him right now. His lone loss, a split decision to Ali Zebian, saw him have to defensively wrestle and get outpointed, especially as the fight wore on and he got more tired. Luckily in this fight, Oki is a striker himself, so he may avoid having to have extended wrestling exchanges with his opponent.
Outlook
UFC Prelim Fighter: Salvador is one of the many Muay Thai/kickboxing fighters that are up-and-coming prospects since crossing over from their days in Glory and other top promotions. He follows guys like Alex Pereira, Cedric Doumbe and others. He has a good chance to find success in the UFC once this fight is over and a decision is made whether to contract him or not. With the Lima brothers helping him round his game, he’s going to only get better in the sport of MMA. He will have a solid run in the UFC.
MMA Intel 