Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at American Andre Soukhamthath as he makes his UFC debut against Californian Albert Morales at UFC 209 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Andre “The Asian Sensation” Soukhamthath Hometown: Providence, Rhode Island Age: 28 Height: 5-foot-9 Reach: 72 inches Weight Class: Bantamweight Camp: Blackzilians Career Record: 11-3 Key Wins: None Key Losses: None Background The former CES bantamweight champion enters his UFC debut on the back of a four-fight winning streak. That streak includes three consecutive wins by knockout, all of which were in the second round or later. Strengths
- Former soccer goalie which leads to good footwork / hand eye coordination
- Good athlete
- Big for the weight class
- Vicious elbows
- Heavy leg kicks
Weaknesses
- Poor takedown defense, but working on it a lot
- Doesn’t check leg kicks
- Hands need work
- Striking volume rather low for weight class
- No signs of a submission game
Fighter Grade Offensive Striking: C- Striking Defense: C- Knockout Power: D+ Athleticism / Speed: C- Footwork: C- Chin: D+ Offensive Wrestling: D- Takedown Defense: D- Submissions: F Conditioning: D+ Intangibles: D Overall Grade: D Matchup with Albert Morales An exciting matchup is on tap at UFC 209, as Morales welcomes Soukhamthath to the UFC. Both fighters are first and foremost strikers. Morales has more of a boxing-heavy approach while Soukhamthath comes from a kick-heavy background. I expect both fighters will want to keep this fight standing, as that is where they are at their best and most comfortable. From a technical standpoint, I’d give Soukhamthath the edge. However, Morales is much more aggressive and throws with much higher volume than his opponent. I think striking volume is the key to this fight. Morales will put Soukhamthath on the back foot. Morales will control the action and land with good frequency in this bout. Without an ability to get Morales to the ground, Soukhamthath will struggle to keep up with the pace on the feet. Look for Morales to earn a late stoppage, as the accumulation of strikes will be too much for his opponent to handle. If he doesn’t get the knockout, a wide decision is also a possibility, as I expect Morales to land more in all three rounds. UFC Ceiling Soukhamthath reminds me quite a bit of former UFC fighter James Moontasri. He has a pretty decent technical striking game but lacks the volume and well-rounded skill set to do well in the UFC. Soukhamthath hasn’t shown a level of grappling and wrestling necessary to compete with the better wrestlers in the division. He will need to make real improvements in those areas, or I don’t see him lasting long in the promotion. Fight Film Check out Soukhamthath in some of his most recent fights… Soukhamthath vs. Kody Norby Soukhamthath vs. Corey Simmons