Magomedov credits Askarov for twister finish at UFC Vegas

Murtazali Magomedov pulled off the fourth twister submission in UFC history at his promotional debut Saturday, and he credits a former flyweight contender for the rare finish.

Magomedov stopped Melsik Baghdasaryan at 1:17 of the first round at UFC Fight Night 279 in Las Vegas after locking in the modified twister as his opponent tried to escape from back control. Per Sherdog, the unbeaten 11-0 Kyrgyz prospect told reporters after the fight that Askar Askarov drilled the technique with him for months.

"I work this technique long time," Magomedov said, according to the report. "My brother, Askar Askarov teach me this technique."

Askarov's brief but impactful UFC run

Askarov fought to a draw with Brandon Moreno during his UFC tenure and defeated Joseph Benavidez, Alexandre Pantoja and Tim Elliott before dropping a decision to Kai Kara-France in 2022. The 15-1 Bullet requested his release from the promotion later that year following weight management struggles and a cancelled bout with Brandon Royval. He has competed just once since on the regional scene in 2023.

Magomedov, who calls himself The Highlight, said the featherweight division needs fresh blood. "The featherweight division is almost dying," he told reporters, per the same report. "Let's bring it back to life and make it great again."

UFC Fight Night 280 takes place next Saturday at the Apex.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Octagon newcomer learned twister submission technique from ex-UFC standout