Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida and Max Gimenis are set to meet again – this time inside the octagon – at UFC Vegas 116 on May 25!
The matchup stands out as an unusual booking, given their history in grappling.
The two have already faced each other twice in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition, with Buchecha winning both encounters by submission.
While MMA introduces new variables like striking, neither fighter has yet established themselves as standout strikers, making the dynamic especially intriguing.
Gimenis has shown slightly more willingness to engage on the feet, but that approach has come with risks, including two knockout losses.
Buchecha, on the other hand, has relied more heavily on his grappling base as he transitions into MMA.
In terms of records, both fighters are still finding their footing in the sport.
Gimenis enters with a 6-2 record after dropping his UFC debut, while Buchecha sits at 5-2-1 and is still searching for his first win inside the octagon after two appearances.
Their grappling credentials, however, tell a very different story.
Buchecha is widely regarded as one of the greatest competitors in BJJ history, holding more IBJJF World Championship titles than anyone else before retiring at the top of the sport.
Gimenis has also had success on the world stage, earning podium finishes in both gi and no-gi divisions.
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