Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at Australian high school teacher Anton Zafir, as he takes on James Moontasri at UFC 193 in Melbourne, Australia. Anton Zafir Hometown: Airlie Beach, Australia Age: 28 Height: N/A Reach: N/A Weight Class: Lightweight Camp: Whitsunday Martial Arts Career Record: 7-1 Key Wins: None Key Losses: Alex Volkanovskiy Background A high school teacher and MMA gym owner, Zafir only began fighting professionally in 2012. He currently holds the Nitro MMA welterweight title in Australia after eight professional fights. Strengths
- Decent athlete
- Aggressive fighter that prefers to dictate action
- If he can get top control, he’s capable of working good ground and pound
Weaknesses
- Inexperienced
- Low level camp
- Doesn’t excel in any area
- Poor technique
Matchup with James Moontasri James Moontasri is making the move up to welterweight to welcome Australian Anton Zafir into the UFC. The Australian is rather inexperienced and will struggle in this bout as Moontasri will be the much bigger fighter on fight night. The American has a significant striking advantage with more power and better technique. Look for Moontasri to set the pace early on this bout. Unless Zafir is able to force the fight to the ground and hold it there, he has little shot of winning at UFC 193. UFC Ceiling Outside of China, there has not been much worse talent development than in Australia. Rarely is there a high level Australian prospect. Unfortunately for Zafir, he fits into the standard Australian category. Sure, he’s a 7-1 fighter, but he lacks the technical ability to compete on this level. Coaching and training at your own camp is a recipe for disaster in this sport. Fight Film Check out Anton Zafir in some of his most recent fights: Anton Zafir vs. Ryan Heketa Anton Zafir vs. Josh Smith