Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at featherweight Paul Redmond as he takes on blue chip prospect Mirsad Bektic at UFC on Fox 14 in Stockholm, Sweden. Paul “Redser” Redmond Hometown: Dublin, Ireland Age: 28 Height: 5’10” Reach: – Weight Class: Featherweight Camp: Renzo Team Ryano MMA Career Record: 10-4 Key Wins: None Key Losses: None Background A part time DJ, Redmond is a veteran of Cage Warriors. In recent years he has become a bit of submission specialist with three of his last five victories by toe hold submission. Strengths
- Aggressive stand up
- Good from the clinch to work in takedowns
- Solid in top control and does well with ground and pound
- Dangerous heel hook if he has to chance to lock it in
Weaknesses
- Footwork needs improvement
- Throws punches with arms as opposed to solid fluidity
- Below average takedown defense
- Really poor level of competition faced
Match-up with Mirsad Bektic It’s no walk in the office to ever face Mirsad Bektic and to do so on one’s UFC debut is extremely difficult. While Redmond has done well in his recent fights, his level of competition is poor at best. In Bektic, he’s facing by far the best wrestler he’s ever faced. Combining that with Bektic’s quick hands and big time power and it’s going to be a very difficult matchup for Redmond. While Redmond’s standup is improving, he’s at a real disadvantage in that facet of the match. In the grappling, Bektic has one of the most beautiful power double takedowns one will ever see in MMA. Expect him to drive into Redmond and take him down with ease. He certainly has the ability to finish in top control with heavy ground and pound. However, it is also the one play where Redmond can win the fight. Redmond has a very sneaky submission game He’s shown in recent fights that he can lock in toe holds from unorthodox positions to secure a submission win. In the end, Bektic should control this matchup from start to finish and get a dominant win. If you are looking for a long shot in this bout, wait for the submission prop on Redmond to be released as that is his only way to victory. UFC Ceiling Paul Redmond is an improving fighter with good offensive submissions. What Redmond lacks is the stand up to regularly compete against most UFC fighters. His striking is rather arm heavy and he puts himself in poor positions in the standup due to overextending in his striking. Ultimately, he’s the type of fighter who is capable of a couple upsets in the octagon because of submission ability. More often than not though, he won’t be able to lock in a sub those situations and thus will have a difficult time winning in the UFC. Fight Film Check out Paul Redmond in some of his recent fights: Paul Redmond vs. Alexis Savvidis
Paul Redmond vs. Ryan Roddy