Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Andre Petroski Set for Middleweight Scrap at UFC Atlanta

The UFC middleweight division will see an intriguing matchup as Edmen Shahbazyan takes on Andre Petroski at UFC Atlanta on June 14. The fight, announced via social media, pits two fighters with contrasting styles and career trajectories against each other in what promises to be a pivotal contest for both men. With the event taking place at the State Farm Arena, fans can expect fireworks from this compelling bout.

Edmen Shahbazyan will take on Andre Petroski at #UFCAtlanta on June 14th.
[first rep. Petroski/IG] pic.twitter.com/UijmM1mYox

— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) April 3, 2025

Edmen Shahbazyan: The Golden Boy’s Redemption Arc

Edmen Shahbazyan (14-5 MMA, 5-5 UFC), once heralded as the future of the middleweight division, enters this fight looking to regain his footing after a rollercoaster career. Shahbazyan burst onto the scene with a string of first-round finishes, earning him the nickname “The Golden Boy.” However, after suffering a series of tough losses to elite competition like Derek Brunson and Jack Hermansson, his star dimmed.

Shahbazyan’s recent performances have shown glimpses of his potential. He rebounded with a first-round knockout victory over Dylan Budka in February, demonstrating his lethal striking ability and earning a Performance of the Night bonus. Known for his crisp boxing and devastating knockout power, he has 12 wins by KO. Shahbazyan remains dangerous in the early rounds. However, questions linger about his cardio and grappling defense, areas that have been exploited in past defeats.

Lovely counter right overhand KO from Edmen Shahbazyan against Dylan Budka!#UFCVegas102 pic.twitter.com/um76Juhbsu

— MMA Poetry ✍🏼 (@themmapoet) February 16, 2025

At just 27 years old, Shahbazyan still has time to evolve and make good on his early promise. A win over Petroski could mark the turning point in his career and reestablish him as a contender in the division.

Andre Petroski: Wrestling His Way to Contention

Andre Petroski (13-3 MMA, 8-2 UFC) is riding high on a three-fight winning streak, with victories over Rodolfo Vieira, Dylan Budka, and Josh Fremd. Known for his wrestling-heavy style and relentless pace, Petroski has carved out a niche as one of the most durable grapplers in the middleweight division. Petroski has built momentum inside and outside the Octagon by training out of Marquez MMA in Philadelphia alongside elite fighters like Sean Brady and Joe Pyfer.

Petroski’s ability to control fights with his wrestling is well-documented; he averages significant control time per bout, but critics have pointed out gaps in his striking defense and cardio under pressure. Despite these criticisms, he has shown resilience, bouncing back from knockout losses to Jacob Malkoun and Michel Pereira to rack up consistent wins.

Facing Shahbazyan presents Petroski with an interesting challenge. If he can weather Shahbazyan’s explosive striking in the early rounds and impose his grappling game, he could grind out another victory and continue climbing the rankings. A win here would further solidify his position as a rising contender in the division.

This fight is crucial for both men as they seek to establish themselves among the middleweight elite. For Shahbazyan, it’s an opportunity to prove that he can overcome adversity and fulfill his potential. For Petroski, it’s a chance to extend his winning streak and showcase why he belongs in conversations about divisional contenders.

With contrasting styles, Shahbazyan’s striking versus Petroski’s grappling, the fight promises an intriguing tactical battle that could go either way depending on who can execute their game plan more effectively. Fans should expect high drama when these two meet at UFC Atlanta on June 14.