Tag: youssef zalal

Youssef Zalal Accuses Calvin Kattar Of Underhanded Tactics At UFC Vegas 102: ‘Slipperiest Guy I’ve Ever Seen’

Youssef Zalal may have had his hand raised at Saturday’s UFC Fight Night, but he believes achieving the win was made more difficult by some potential cheating. Zalal recorded the biggest win of his career to date in this weekend’s co-main event at the Apex, where he outpointed top-10 opposition in perennial featherweight contender Calvin […]

Youssef Zalal may have had his hand raised at Saturday’s UFC Fight Night, but he believes achieving the win was made more difficult by some potential cheating.

Zalal recorded the biggest win of his career to date in this weekend’s co-main event at the Apex, where he outpointed top-10 opposition in perennial featherweight contender Calvin Kattar.

But while he’s now won seven straight and can expect a high number next to his name come Tuesday’s rankings update, “The Moroccan Devil” wasn’t totally happy in the aftermath of his triumph.

During his post-fight press conference, Zalal appeared to accuse Kattar of cheating by greasing his body to ensure an advantage in grappling exchanges.

“This is the crazy part: We worked a lot of grappling, and I sh*t you not, I felt like there’s Vaseline all over his legs,” Zalal said. “I swear to God, he was the most slipperiest guy I’ve ever seen in my life, and I felt like I’m not trying to be that guy with this and that (excuse). But man, that was suspicious, bro.

“Nobody slides like that – that quick. I’ve fought a lot of good guys – Jack Shore and all those guys – and I felt when you’re dry and all that stuff, there’s no way. It is what it is. You can cheat the sport, you can do whatever you want.”

‘Zalal To PFL For Running An Entire Round’ – Fans Split As Youssef Zalal Outpoints Calvin Kattar At UFC Vegas 102

Youssef Zalal received the biggest opportunity of his career thus far when he took on Calvin Kattar in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 102. But while he scored a decision win, the result led to a mix of reactions from MMA fans. Kattar tried to take control of the fight from the get-go, looking […]

Youssef Zalal received the biggest opportunity of his career thus far when he took on Calvin Kattar in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 102. But while he scored a decision win, the result led to a mix of reactions from MMA fans.

Kattar tried to take control of the fight from the get-go, looking to blitz with the striking that led him to popularity during his Octagon career. Zalal, however, took advantage of that by using his footwork, keeping distance and landing counterstrikes.

Footwork and distance continued to use this strategy and found success, frustrating Kattar over the course of the remaining 10 minutes to win the fight across all three judges’ scorecards.

While some fans and media members felt it was excellent strategy, others were critical of the performance, stating Zalal would lose fans for the way he fought here.

Youseef Zalal Splits MMA Fanbase With Performance In Win Over Calvin Kattar

After his first stint in the UFC ended unceremoniously, Zalal has won seven straight and is now 4-0 since his return to the Octagon.

Kattar, meanwhile, has now lost four straight and five of six since a January 2021 loss to Max Holloway.

Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal – Odds and Match Preview

Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal - Odds and Match PreviewCalvin Kattar and Youssef Zalal are set to face off in a pivotal featherweight bout at UFC Fight Night…

Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal - Odds and Match Preview

Calvin Kattar and Youssef Zalal are set to face off in a pivotal featherweight bout at UFC Fight Night 251 on February 15, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. This fight carries significant stakes for both fighters as they look to solidify their positions in the competitive featherweight division.

Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal Odds

The betting odds for the upcoming UFC featherweight bout between Calvin Kattar and Youssef Zalal suggest that Zalal is the favorite to win. Current odds show Kattar as a +190 underdog, while Zalal is listed at -225, indicating a higher likelihood of victory for Zalal according to bookmakers. These odds mean that a $100 bet on Kattar would yield $190 in profit if he wins, whereas a $225 bet on Zalal would return $100 in profit. For playing additional numbers check out wanted win casino for more games.

Youssef Zalal’s status as the favorite reflects his recent momentum, including a string of submission victories that highlight his grappling dominance. If the fight goes to the ground, Zalal’s submission skills could lead to a finish. On the other hand, Kattar’s striking power and experience make him a dangerous opponent, particularly in stand-up exchanges. A knockout by Kattar is possible if he can control the distance and avoid takedowns.

Youssef Zalal

The odds have remained relatively stable in favor of Youssef Zalal, reflecting confidence in his grappling edge and recent form. However, late betting activity closer to fight night could shift the lines slightly, especially if fans or analysts weigh in on Kattar’s striking threat or his ability to rebound from losses.

Report - Calvin Kattar targeted to make return in huge UFC Vegas 102 fight

Calvin Kattar is a seasoned UFC veteran known for his boxing and elbows. Kattar has earned 11 of his wins via knockout and is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous strikers in the division. Despite his striking focus, he has a solid wrestling foundation from his high school days. However, Kattar is currently on a three-fight losing streak and aims to bounce back in this matchup.

Youssef Zalal is a rising star with a well-rounded skill set but excels in grappling and submissions. After being released from the UFC in 2022, Zalal made an impressive comeback in 2024 with three consecutive submission victories, showcasing his elite jiu-jitsu. He is known for his adaptability, switching stances effectively, and his ability to capitalize on ground opportunities.

For Kattar, this fight represents an opportunity to halt his losing streak and re-establish himself as a top contender in the featherweight division. For Zalal, it’s a chance to continue his resurgence and secure a victory over a highly ranked opponent, potentially breaking into the upper echelon of the division.

This clash of styles, Kattar’s striking versus Zalal’s grappling, makes this an intriguing matchup with high stakes for both fighters’ careers.

Morocco’s Youssef Zalal Aiming for Revenge Against Ilia Topuria “There’s a whole story behind this.”

Morocco's Youssef Zalal Aiming for Revenge Against Ilia Topuria "There's a whole story behind this."Morocco’s Youssef Zalal is eyeing a rematch with UFC Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, determined to rewrite the story of…

Morocco's Youssef Zalal Aiming for Revenge Against Ilia Topuria "There's a whole story behind this."

Morocco’s Youssef Zalal is eyeing a rematch with UFC Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, determined to rewrite the story of their first encounter.

Youssef Zalal Wants Ilia Topuria Rematch

Youssef Zalal first faced Topuria on October 11, 2020, and lost the fight by unanimous decision in a hard-fought three rounds. Topuria’s grappling was dominant, and the victory helped the Georgian-Spanish fighter climb the ranks to eventually secure the UFC Featherweight Championship in February 2024.

Youssef Zalal vs. Ilia Topuria

Reflecting on the potential future fight against Ilia Topuria, Zalal said, “Oh, bro, why not? It’s a whole story, bro. Like, the storyline is right there. You talk about promotion—that’s like a big promotion right there. It’s like you fought the guy in his UFC debut. He’s your only decision, and you’re both coming up. He got kicked out and came back, so there’s a whole story behind this. So, 100%.”

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Zalal’s journey to this potential rematch has been marked by perseverance. After a brief stint outside the UFC, due to struggling inside the organization, he returned stronger. In his second UFC run, he earned Performance of the Night bonuses and captured the attention of fans and analysts. The loss to Topuria remains a motivating factor in Zalal’s career.

As for Topuria, the undefeated fighter has seen his incredible rise in the sport. For Zalal, the opportunity to face Topuria again represents a chance to settle unfinished business and prove how far he’s come since their initial meeting. Youssef Zalal is currently on an impressive six-fight win streak and just submitted Jack Shore in the UFC.

Undefeated, All Finishes “F*ing Great, Thank You” Youssef Zalal Reaction to Facing Ilia Topuria On Short Notice

Undefeated, All Finishes "F*ing Great, Thank You" Youssef Zalal Reaction to Facing Ilia Topuria On Short Notice UFCMorocco’s Youssef Zalal faced a pivotal moment in his career during his UFC journey. In 2020, Zalal found himself…

Undefeated, All Finishes "F*ing Great, Thank You" Youssef Zalal Reaction to Facing Ilia Topuria On Short Notice UFC

Morocco’s Youssef Zalal faced a pivotal moment in his career during his UFC journey. In 2020, Zalal found himself up against an undefeated force, Ilia Topuria, under challenging circumstances. When Zalal’s original opponent pulled out just days before the bout, he had to quickly adapt.

Youssef Zalal vs. Ilia Topuria

“I’m in Abu Dhabi, I land, and I get a call. They’re like, ‘Yeah, your opponent pulled out,’” Zalal recalls. “I say, ‘What the fck do you mean my opponent pulled out? I’m fcking seven days away from the fight.’” The shock didn’t end there.

“They’re like, ‘Yeah, but we got you this guy,’” Zalal continues, “I said, ‘Okay, what’s his record?’ ‘Fcking 8-0 or 9-0 or some sht like that. All finishes, never seen a decision.’ And I said, ‘F*cking great. Thank you. Like, this is awesome, bro.’”

Zalal’s new opponent, Ilia Topuria, was an undefeated juggernaut. The challenge of facing someone on such short notice didn’t deter Zalal. Instead, he took the opportunity in stride.

“I go in and fight this guy, and I was like, first round, they said he’s a grappler,” Zalal explained. “And I was like, ‘Okay.’ I didn’t know this f*cker was a Greco-wrestler. That’s the only highlight you see of him—ever tossing my ass.”

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Despite the sudden adjustment, Zalal faced Topuria with resilience, but the fight saw Ilia Topuria’s grappling power earn the W. The bout went the full three rounds, with Topuria’s control on the ground proving too much for Zalal to overcome, and Topuria secured the unanimous decision victory.

Topuria’s success in the division, culminating in his February 2024 UFC Featherweight Championship win against Alexander Volkanovski, has only highlighted the significance of their encounter, as both fighters’ careers have continued to rise.

Ilia Topuria

Zalal’s experience against Topuria in 2020 has proven invaluable in his development. The fight may have ended in a loss for Zalal, but it propelled him towards future success. He is now on a six-fight win streak with his most victory being a submission win against Jack Shore.

Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal In The Works For UFC Fight Night On Feb. 15

Veteran UFC featherweight contender Calvin Kattar will need to defend his spot in the rankings this year following a difficult period. After a battering at the hands of Max Holloway, Kattar (23-8) kept his name close to the title picture in 2022 by being on the opposite end of a destructive display against Giga Chikadze. […]

Veteran UFC featherweight contender Calvin Kattar will need to defend his spot in the rankings this year following a difficult period.

After a battering at the hands of Max Holloway, Kattar (23-8) kept his name close to the title picture in 2022 by being on the opposite end of a destructive display against Giga Chikadze.

But “The Boston Finisher” hasn’t had his hand raised since. He fell on the wrong side of a contentious split decision against Josh Emmett, lost to Arnold Allen after tearing his ACL mid-fight, and most recently failed to spoil Aljamain Sterling’s featherweight debut at UFC 300.

With that losing skid in mind, Kattar will unsurprisingly be fighting down the pecking order in 2025. And should plans come to fruition, that’ll seemingly be against the charging Youssef Zalal (16-5-1).

The fight was announced by Zalal during an appearance on the JAXXON Podcast.

Zalal exited the UFC in 2022 after going 0-3-1 across a four-fight run, in which he lost to Ilia Topuria, Seungwoo Choi, and Sean Woodson. But since working his way back with three wins on the regional scene, he’s been unstoppable.

The 28-year-old Moroccan went 3-0 under the UFC banner in 2024, submitting Billy Quarantillo, Jarno Errens, and Jack Shore to earn a shot at the rankings and the featherweight top 10.

With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at the UFC Fight Night on Feb. 15 are as follows:

  • Jared Cannonier vs. Gregory Rodrigues (middleweight main event)
  • Edson Barboza vs. Steve Garcia (featherweight)
  • Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal (featherweight)
  • Yuneisy Duben vs. Carli Judice (women’s flyweight)
  • Ismael Bonfim vs. Nazim Sadykhov (lightweight)
  • Gabriel Bonfim vs. Rinat Fakhretdinov (welterweight)
  • Jose Delgado vs. Connor Matthews (featherweight)
  • Billy Ray Goff vs. Nikolay Veretennikov (welterweight)
  • Dylan Budka vs. Edmen Shahbazyan (middleweight)
  • Vince Morales vs. Elijah Smith (bantamweight)
  • Jesus Aguilar vs. Rafael Estevam (lightweight)
  • Don’Tale Mayes vs. Valter Walker (heavyweight)
  • Kaue Fernandes vs. Jared Gordon (lightweight)