Introduction
Friday, July 3rd, French welterweight prospect Jordan Zebo will be in action for Ares FC, where he will be looking continue his winning ways against Andre Fialho. He will be looking for another win, as Zebo looks to inch closer to a UFC contract. He represents MMA Factory, a solid camp in MMA. Let’s take a closer look at this prospect as this week’s “Prospect Spotlight.”
Strengths
Kickboxing: Zebo has a strong kickboxing base that aids him in the cage. He has very fluid movement and good technical skills, which he combines with uncanny power in his hands and legs. While he has that power, he tends to be more of a volume striker that tries to wear out his opponent and build damage as opposed to scoring the kill shot early. When he keeps it technical and at a distance, he’s very difficult to deal with as he can stay out of the shooting distance.
Natural Gifts: In terms of physical strength and natural athleticism, Zebo is hard to match when it comes to those categories. His explosiveness and athletic prowess aid him in the cage, as he’s able to use great movement and quick reflexes to both play on offense and defense on the feet. These natural advantages make a dangerous fighter even more dangerous.
Needs Improvement
Counter-Wrestling: While Zebo has certainly improved in the wrestling and grappling arts, it still seems to be an area that can be exposed. He was taken down a few times in his fight with Baysangur Chamsoudinov, though he won that fight and showed improved takedown defense. In his most recent fight, he won a split decision over Ramazan Mustafaev who was able to have some success in the wrestling game. Zebo’s continued improvement will serve him well, but once he hits the UFC or PFL, the level of wrestling goes up several notches and could expose him a bit.
Outlook
UFC Top 20: Zebo is only 25 years old. His lone loss came three years ago when he was a puppy of a pro fighter when he fought kickboxing world champion Cedric Doumbe. Three years later, Doumbe hasn’t been super active and Zebo has surged as a top 170-pound prospect in the world. He’s yet to peak in his athletic prowess and skill, which is a scary thought given recent events. He claimed the top prospect status in France when he skulled previously unbeaten Baysangur Chamsoudinov, who was undefeated and the top French prospect at the time. If Zebo continues to win, a UFC fight kit should be in his future.
MMA Intel 