Prospect In-depth: Michael Pagani (Patreon)

Lightweight
25-years-old
Five-foot-nine
Brescia, Italy
7-0, 1 NC
5 KO/TKO
Combined opponent's record: 29-11

Boxing: A-
Kickboxing: B+
Knockout power: B+
Explosiveness: B
Footwork: A-
Clinch: C+
Wrestling: C
Grappling: C+
Ground and Pound: A-
Submission threat:
Striking defense: C+
Takedown defense: B-
Grappling defense: F
Cardio: B
Fight IQ: A

I've known of Pagani since he was a young pro and I wasn't a fan of him at start. It wasn't until his last fight when he beat James Power that officially sold me. Power was a guy I was high on and Pagani basically controlled the entire fight.

Pagani early on in his career struggled with takedown defense, cardio, and striking defense. Over time he's really sharpened up everything. There is still minor concerns in his takedown defense but at least does a good job of using his physicality to make if difficult. His striking defense plays a big part into his offensive abilities. Pagani is a dangerous counter striking. It's his unpredictability with his countering as hell snipe with spinning attacks, elbows, and the jumping knee. Everything Pagani throws there is intention behind it.

Pagani does a great job maintaining range while using footwork switching stances And sniping on the outside. He throws straight punches, the jab, a one-two, and straight to the body. Pagani throws those teeps to the body as well to create that distance control. He doesn't throw more than two strikes at a time but he throws them from different angles and finds those striking lanes so well. Pagani can dictate the pace and at the same time is so dangerous off his back foot.

Pagani is a primary striker but did show some ground game in his last fight. His wrestling isn't anything notable and jiu-jitsu seems fine. Where he shines in that department is that ground and pound where he will smash with those elbows. At just 25 the whole wrestling and ground game will get better Im sure.

Pagani has real grown on me. He's got a bright future with a high ceiling. He's capable of pitching a shut out or scoring a highlight reel knockout. Keep an eye on Pagani and when doing so, don't blink.