Record: 13-2 (5 wins by TKO/KO, 4 submissions, 4 decisions) Height: 5-4 Weight: 125 pounds Reach: 65.5 inches Fighting out of: Moscow, Russia Fighting style: Wrestling/Striking Profile: Another one of the Russian prospects making waves in MMA, Ali Bagautinov (13-2) earned a UFC title shot after just three fights in the Octagon. He defeated Marcos Vinicius in his debut but KO, then he took out Tim Elliott and John Lineker via decision to cement himself as the No. 1 contender. A small flyweight, Bagautinov is blessed with big knockout power and solid wrestling to boot. He is taking a serious step up here against Johnson for the title, but it’s a fight that, based on styles, is winnable. And this June, we’ll find out just how good he really is — or isn’t. Last fight: Decision of John Lineker at UFC 169. Next opponent: Demetrious Johnson at UFC 174.
