MMA Future Stars

Taking a look at some of the top prospects in Mixed Martial Arts

Future MMA stars are like stars in any sport. The best way to locate prospects for the NFL is to watch NCAA football, the same goes for the NBA. In baseball, it’s the minor leagues. Where is it in MMA? Although many future stars reside in UFC, Strikeforce and Affliction, they are already labeled by that point. To identify them early, one must attend regional promotions. I have attended many events and gyms in the Midwest. Here are some fighters to keep your eye on (listed by last name alphabetically not by ranking). Photos of fighters follow the list.

• Chris “The Samurai” Bennett - Bennett is a natural with a strong will and desire to succeed. He is only 18, having only a single loss on his resume. Check out our March 2009 interview with Chris "The Samurai" Bennett.
• Relentless Roger Bowling - Bowling has several explosive victories. His next bout will be against the always-entertaining War Machine in June for MMA Big Show.
• Mojo Horne - Long time training partner of Rich Franklin, Horne packs the punch and explosion of Rich. Mojo has good power in both his hands and feet. Mojo owns an undefeated record. Check out our March 2009 interview with Mojo Horne.
• Steve Muldrow - Steve is extremely talented with a level head on his shoulders. He is well versed in all disciplines with incredible strength for a 155lber.
• Victor O’Donnell - Victor packs a wallop. The reputation of his punching power is growing with every fight. Vic is explosive and dangerous whether on the ground or in the stand up. Victor takes on the always dangerous Shonie Carter in April for ICF. Check out our March 2009 interview with Victor O'Donnell.
• Jeremy Pender - Pender is a dangerous fighter on the ground. He will make his pro debut in April for ICF
• Dustin Winterhalt - Dustin is an elite wrestler. He brings a wrestler’s mentality to the cage. He controls fights with his strength. Dustin has fought for several organizations. Dustin will put his undefeated record on the line April 25th at XFC in Knoxville, TN vs. Joe Heink. Check out our January 2009 interview with Dustin Winterhalt.

Keep your eye on these fighters. Each of them has a chance at making it to the big stage.

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Dustin Winterhalt grappling against Roger Bowling	Victor O'Donnell grappling against Roger Bowling

By Scott Dryden
ProFighting-fans.com Staff Writer & Director of MMA Content