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**Jiu-Jitsu Legend “Buchecha” Makes UFC Debut Amid Subdued Middle East Card**

**Abu Dhabi, UAE** – Mixed martial arts analyst Liam Heslin (“LiamPicksFights” of RotoGrinders) has previewed the upcoming UFC fight card in the Middle East, noting a somewhat less-than-stellar lineup for the region. While the card may lack some of the star power typically associated with UFC’s Middle Eastern events, Heslin highlights a few key attractions: the UFC debut of jiu-jitsu legend Marcus “Buchecha,” Reinier de Ridder’s first main event, and a bantamweight clash between Petr Yan and Marcus McGhee.

All eyes will be on Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida as he steps into the Octagon for the first time. The 13-time Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion (black belt level) brings a 5-1 MMA record from ONE FC. His opponent, Martin Buday, has a 6-1 UFC record, although Heslin suggests Buday’s run has been somewhat fortunate against lower-level competition. Heslin notes Buday’s recent loss againsgt Shamil Gaziev (3-1 UFC).

“Buchecha” has finished all of his professional wins and he recently beat Amir Aliakbari (14-4 Pro), an Iranian Greco-Roman wrestling world champion, submitting him in the first round. This is likely to continue Buday’s misfortune.

Heslin predicts “Buchecha” will win via stoppage in the first or second round, citing the jiu-jitsu phenom’s superior grappling skills and burgeoning MMA game.

*Liam Heslin is a combat sports analyst for RotoGrinders.com*

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