UFC free fight: Edmen Shahbazyan knocks out Brad Tavares with headkick at UFC 244

MMA might be at a halt, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy some of the most promising and upcoming talents in the sport.

Back in November at UFC 244 in New York City, Edmen Shahbazyan reminded people he’s the real deal and should be taken seriously at 185 pounds. The 22-year-old fighter picked up an impressive first-round knockout of veteran Brad Tavares to continue his unbeaten run in MMA.

With the victory over Tavares, Shahbazyan (11-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC) earned his eleventh professional win and fourth consecutive victory in the UFC. It was also his 20th stoppage finish. The last time someone stopped Tavares prior to UFC 244 was by former champion Robert Whittaker back in 2015.

The Glendale Fighting Club product was scheduled to face Derek Brunson on April 11 at UFC Fight Night event in Portland, Ore., but the card was canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions. An update on a date for the potential rebooking has yet to be announced by the UFC.