Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at American Justin Willis as he makes his UFC debut against Polish heavyweight Marcin Tybura at UFC 208 in Brooklyn, New York. Justin Willis Hometown: Age: 29 Height: 6’3” Reach: 82” Weight Class: Heavyweight Camp: American Kickboxing Academy Career Record: 4-1 Key Wins: None Key Losses: None Background The American Kickboxing Academy trained fighter is a former college football player. He’s amassed four straight wins since losing his professional debut. Three of those four wins are by knockout. Strengths
- Big heavyweight weighing in near the 265 pound weight limit
- Collegiate football background showcases his athleticism
- Good hands
- One punch knockout power
Weaknesses
- Experience is limited
- Defensive wrestling is an unknown
- No semblance of a submission game
Matchup with Marcin Tybura Yet another heavyweight prospect makes his UFC debut as Justin Willis takes on Marcin Tybura. It’s hard to be confident in picking a winner of this fight due to the limited tape on Justin Willis. Willis is certainly gifted physically as a big heavyweight with athleticism and knockout power. He’s also green on experience and I think that’s the difference in this fight. Tybura is an underrated heavyweight. He’s got a decent standup game, but he’s very good in the grappling exchanges and has a strong submission game. While Tybura will be giving up some size in this fight, I think he has the craftiness to get the win here. This is just too much of a step up in competition for Willis at this point. Given the limited tape available on Willis, I’m hesitant to make any wagers on this fight. UFC Ceiling Justin Willis is a fighter with a decent amount of potential. He’s a big heavyweight with significant reach and athleticism. If developed properly and not put into the cage with top fighters right away, he could become an interesting prospect in this weight class. He trains at one of the sport’s best MMA gyms in American Kickboxing Academy training with some of the best fighters in the sport, so it’s likely he will develop an improved skillset rather quickly. Fight Film Check out Justin Willis in some of his most recent fights: Justin Willis vs. James Kirby https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rP4N4mSDtQ