Bantamweight contender Javid Basharat is gearing up for a big year in 2024, and he's kicking it off with a fight at UFC Fight Night 238 in Las Vegas on March 2. Multiple sources have confirmed that the undefeated Afghan-born Brit will be looking to continue his climb up the ranks in the 135lbs division.
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Octagon Veteran Aiemann Zahabi Stands in Basharat's Way
Basharat's first opponent of the year will be octagon veteran Aiemann Zahabi, who happens to be the younger brother of renowned coach Firas Zahabi. This will undoubtedly be a challenging matchup for the Snow Leopard as he aims to get back to winning ways and secure a spot in the bantamweight rankings.
Basharat's Impressive Start in the UFC
The 28-year-old fighter made an explosive entrance into MMA's top promotion when he was signed by Dana White in October 2021. Basharat dominated veterans Trevin Jones and Tony Gravely, and he handed Mateus Mendonca his first professional loss. However, his perfect run came to a halt in October due to an accidental low blow in a fight against Victor Henry, resulting in a No Contest.
Determined to Prove Himself
Basharat believes he should already be ranked in the bantamweight division, and he sees his upcoming fight against Zahabi as an opportunity to make his case. He has faced tough opponents and emerged victorious, yet he remains unranked while his competitors sit higher in the rankings. Basharat is determined to showcase his skills and earn the recognition he believes he deserves.
He said, "Everyone thought that [Tony Gravely] was going to be a tough fight to see where Javid was at. And I made light work of him. I fought him with one eye the whole fight... And then I had an undefeated Brazilian from Charles Oliveira's team. So that in itself, whether he was good or not, there was no blueprint to beat him."
Basharat's confidence and track record speak for themselves, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can continue his winning streak and make waves in the bantamweight division.
