| 2012 World MMA Flyweight Scouting Report: #7 - Jesse Riggleman |
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http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2012/2/8/2785512/jesse-riggleman-mma-world-mma-flyweight-scouting-report At #7 on the 2012 World MMA Flyweight Scouting Report, Virginia's Jesse Riggleman (11-2) finds his deserved spot on this year's countdown. After back-to-back losses in 2010 to The Ultimate Fighter contestants John Dodson and Louis Gaudinot, Riggleman bounced back in 2011, defeating Jason Hiliker at M-1 Challenge 24 in March before narrowly defeating 2011 World MMA Scouting Report prospect Farkhad Sharipov at Bellator 51 in September. Before his ascension to the upper reaches of the talent pool, Riggleman amassed a perfect 9-0 record in a little over a year's time, defeating Bellator veteran Bryan Goldsby and The Ultimate Fighter 14 contestant Josh Ferguson along the way. Typical of other flyweight prospects, Riggleman fought in weight classes above his natural weight, showcasing a toughness and durability that can only be described as inspiring. His split decision win over Goldsby is the perfect example. Not only does Riggleman possess those valuable attributes, he's competent in almost every area of his skill-set. He possesses a solid takedown game, skilled striking, excellent conditioning, and a relentless work ethic, making him one of the best-rounded fighters on the countdown. If he truly possesses all of those skills, why isn't he higher on our list? From a technical standpoint, he could use some work, mainly on the intricate details that are usually the differences between good and great fighters. His granite chin and endless gas tank have saved him many times in the past, mainly because larger fighters took advantage of the size advantage. Riggleman found a way to win, but I'm still skeptical about his chances against top-tier talent. Undoubtedly, the UFC's inclusion of a flyweight division helps a guy like Riggleman the most. He's fought bigger competition his entire career, and he's succeeded for the most part. His skill-set isn't lacking any one skill, and he can beat any fighter who's severely weak in one area. With opponents more his size, it's possible he strings together some big wins in 2012 and gains considerable interest. At only 26 years old, Riggleman has plenty of time to close the gap on the technical know-how he needs to succeed against stronger competition. Since the birth of the UFC's flyweight division creates a question of who we should consider as prospects, we've tweaked the criteria specifically for this weight class. Most notably, we drew a line, excluding the following well-known, established flyweights: Jussier ‘Formiga' da Silva, Ulysses Gomez, Ian McCall, Yasuhiro Urushitani, BJ Kojima, Rambaa Somdet, Mamoru Yamaguchi, Dustin Ortiz, Darrell Montague, Danny Martinez, and any flyweights outside of our original criteria. Footage of Jesse Riggleman after the fold... Riggleman vs. Gaudinot, Riggleman vs. Pham available on GFL.tv For Footage, visit: http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2012/2/8/2785512/jesse-riggleman-mma-world-mma-flyweight-scouting-report . |