Prospect In-depth: Nikola Joksović (Patreon)

Welterweight
29-years-old
Six-foot-one
Novi Sad, Serbia
15-0
5 KO/TKOs, 8 Submissions
Combined opponent's record: 162-95-2

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

I wanted to take a deeper look at Joksovic considering he has an impressive-looking undefeated record. First of all, he did lose a fight back in 2022 to Karim Rabei at Ares FC 4. The fight was soon overturned due to Rabei failing an anti-doping test. This 15-0 record is definitely deceiving. Although his last win looks pretty good he's fought mostly journeymen. It's also weird how someone with 86% finish rate is incredibly boring. His fights are a drag to get through as he's a slow starter and lacks top-end volume.

What stands out the most is the way he keeps a high tight guard. That's fine and all when protecting his head but he leaves his body open and his legs to be chopped. It's also tougher for him to find counters where he's too worried about defense. With that said, he still gets hit a lot and has been wobbled a few times. On the feet, he has some power, especially in his right hand. He throws a good body kick. Lately, he's wrestled/grapples more but I don't rate him too high in those areas.

On the flip side when he's taken down he's not too great off his back. He'll fight wrist and throw his legs up but isn't flexible enough to be an actual threat. He's more of a liability then he is dangerous. There isn't much to his game which is disappointing. There is a reason this guy doesn't get talked about too much.