Sharabutdin Magomedov vs Neiman Gracie - The Most Underrated Matchup

RAF MOSCOW features one of the most star-studded cards in terms of raw namepower in wrestling history. When the debut of Sharabutdin “Shara Bullet” Magomedov and Neiman Gracie is one of the lighter matches on the card, you know it’s going to be a wild ride.

Few names have meant more in the world of combat sports than “Gracie.” Few combat sports debuts were more anticipated, in recent memory, than Sharabutdin “Shara Bullet” Magomedov. Both names carry immense weight and for those who have let this matchup slip their minds when looking at the RAF MOSCOW card, prepare for a pleasant surprise.

Had it not been for all of the other names on the card, Gracie and Shara Bullet would likely be one of the most talked about bouts at RAF MOSCOW. Now set up to catch the world offguard, Magomedov and Gracie square off in a matchup with an enticing clash of styles that is likely to contend for Match of the Night honors.

Known for his awkward all-around style, Shara Bullet is a feared UFC striker who is itching to show the world his Dagestani wrestling capabilities. He met criticism in his first trip to the Octagon and came back stronger than ever. Can being called exclusively a “striker” have the same impact as he takes his first-ever high-level freestyle match?

He called for it earlier this year and he got it.

As for Gracie, it’s a tale as old as time, a Gracie trying to prove to the world that grappling alone can defeat any combat sport.

On record, the Gracie’s have been showing the world the benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 1993 at UFC 1. They’ve slayed almost every kind of style and have sent another generation to try and continue the tradition, this time on the highest stage of freestyle wrestling.

Gracie can do what his family has always done and as the more experienced grappler of the two, he may go into the match as the betting favorite.

The Dagestani wrestlers always win, the Gracie family always wins. Something has to give at RAF MOSCOW.

Known primarily for his unorthodox striking, Shara Bullet will likely to match that with an equally unorthodox and effect gameplan. Never go to the ground.

Jiu-jitsu is different than wrestling. You can be flat on your back and be the most dominant man in the sport in grappling, it will result in an immediate loss in wrestling but Shara Bullet can’t bank on Gracie making that mistake. He is better off making it a battle of the shot clock, defense and push out points. It may not go in the highlight real but it will be the easiest path to victory.

He also needs to use his size to make entries uncomfortable for Gracie. At 6’2 with a giant reach, Shara Bullet can easily use heavy hips and a large wingspan to create and maintain space to keep the match on the feet and a battle of size and strength.

Gracie needs almost the exact opposite. He sports a name that is known for taking out the bigger, stronger opponents with his ground game and takedowns, the Gracie apple never falls far from the tree.

To get to his sweet spot, he will need to attack the legs early and often. He can’t look to hand-fight and stand up with the bigger athlete. Shooting low-singles and high-crotches will be his most effective method of operation.

Both men were bred to win battles like this but only one can walk off the RAF mat a winner.

Catch Sharabutdin Magomedov vs Neiman Gracie at RAF MOSCOW, Saturday, September 5!