The UFC heavyweight division witnessed a compelling display of strength and tactical prowess as Martin Buday secured a unanimous decision victory over legendary grappler Marcus Buchecha at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi on July 26, 2025. The bout, part of a stacked card headlined by Whittaker vs. de Ridder, underscored Buday’s rising stature in the heavyweight ranks and highlighted the challenges Buchecha faces in transitioning his elite grappling skills to MMA’s diverse combat demands.
From the opening bell, Buday’s physicality and imposing frame posed significant challenges for Buchecha. Standing 6’4” and weighing in at the heavyweight limit of 266 pounds, Buday used his size advantage effectively, neutralizing Buchecha's renowned grappling attempts. Buchecha, a 13-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion and ADCC titleholder, weighed 254 pounds and tried to impose his ground game but was consistently met with Buday’s defensive resilience and striking.
The first round saw Buday controlling the pace on the feet, landing impactful strikes and maintaining forward pressure that disrupted Buchecha’s rhythm. Two of the three judges scored the round 10-9 for Buday, reflecting his effective aggression. Buchecha managed to rally in the second round, taking the fight to the ground and choosing to land damaging strikes from dominant positions rather than pursuing full control. This strategic choice helped him claim the round on all three judges’ scorecards, including two 10-9 rounds in his favor.
The final round was pivotal. Buday demonstrated cardiovascular durability and tactical composure, regaining control on the feet before securing top position in the closing exchanges. Although Buchecha mounted a reversal late in the round, Buday’s top control and ground-and-pound inflicted sufficient damage to sway the judges. All three scorecards reflected a 10-9 round for Buday, culminating in a unanimous 29-28 decision victory.
Reflecting on the fight in his post-fight interview, Martin Buday said, “It was a tough matchup because Marcus is one of the best grapplers in the world. I knew I had to use my size and power, keep the pressure, and not allow him to settle. I’m proud to get the win, and I know this puts me in a good spot in the heavyweight division.” Buchecha, known off the mats for his humility, acknowledged the challenge: “Martin is a strong, well-rounded fighter. I learned a lot tonight, especially about pacing and striking in MMA. I’ll take this experience and keep improving.”
Statistically, Buday out-landed Buchecha in significant strikes and demonstrated superior octagon control time throughout the bout. Despite Buchecha’s elite ground credentials, he landed only two successful takedowns out of several attempts and was unable to maintain dominant positions for extended periods. Buday’s ability to defend takedowns and dictate striking exchanges was a clear factor in the judges’ scoring.
This victory keeps Buday’s UFC record strong, as he rides momentum within a highly competitive heavyweight landscape often characterized by physicality and endurance. While Buchecha's transition to MMA is still evolving, his skill set remains impressive, and this fight adds valuable lessons as he adapts to the diverse demands of mixed martial arts.
Martin Buday’s unanimous decision over Marcus Buchecha at UFC Abu Dhabi was a measured display of heavyweight skill, combining physical dominance, striking accuracy, and tactical grappling defense. The fight affirmed Buday’s role as a contender to watch in the heavyweight division and presented Buchecha with critical insights for his future MMA career. As Buday stated, “I’m ready for tougher fights ahead and eager to prove myself against the best.”
LATEST
- NEWS
- |
- ARTICLES
- |
- VIDEOS
FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK
