Doug “The Rhino” Marshall made his MMA debut in the heavyweight division over a decade ago in October of 2003, at World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) 8 against Anthony Fuller. He would win the bout via submission to strikes in only 32 seconds.
After three more first round stoppages (including a corner stoppage over current Bellator heavyweight Lavar Johnson), Marshall earned a fight for the heavyweight strap against James Irvin; losing the fight via knockout in the second round. The loss prompted an undersized Marshall to move down to the 205 pound weight class.
Shortly there after Marshall would not only capture the title, but defend it 2 times. In his 3rd title defense, he would drop his title to Brian Stann. At this time Zuffa had decided to absorb the WEC’s heavier weight classes into the UFC; Marshall’s contract was not brought along.
Marshall once again realized he was undersized for his weight class, and moved down to 185. Going 4-0 on the local California circuit, he took a step up in competition; losing 3 of his next 4 fights (all by stoppage in the first round).
Just as it seemed his career would be come to a lack luster end, he was offered a contract by Bellator MMA. Making his debut at Bellator 82 vs Kala Hose; Marshall earned the fastest knock out in Bellator middleweight history at only 22 seconds.
He then entered and won the Season 8 middleweight tournament, earning two more highlight reel knock outs along the way. He now faces the most dominate Russian in MMA today, Alexander Shlemenko for the Bellator middleweight title.
Shlemenko has been anything short of phenomenal in his Bellator career, going 9-1 in the promotion. His sole lose being to former champion Hector Lombard, in a 5 round fight displaying Shlemenko’s heart and desire to win. While there is little doubt Shlemenko is the more “well rounded” fighter; I see 3 major reasons why Marshall will be the next 185 pound Bellator Champion.
1. Marshall has a rare gift when it comes to raw power. He is capable of knocking out any man on this green earth, if that right hand lands. While Shlemenko is the “better” striker, his style is based on an accumulation of strikes. Marshall will have a big advantage in finishing ability.
2. Shlemenko starts slow, not getting into a rhythm until the second round usually. On the other hand, Marshall comes out the gate sprinting; he will most likely be the aggressor, landing the bigger shots early.
3. Shlemenko does not have the tools to expose Marshall’s major weaknesses. His one shot power is not enough is worry about Marshall’s questionable chin. His wrestling skills are mostly defensive, and his only successful takedown is an outside leg trip. Contrary to what most people believe, Marshall has excellent takedown defense, and a deep powerful sprawl. While its not Shlemenko’s style to try and wrestle, it is in his best interest to get this fight to the ground; though his skill set may not translate well to a change of game plan.
Marshall has been a constant underdog in his Bellator career. Out of the 3 fights that actually had gambling lines, he was almost a 3-1 underdog (almost a 4-1 vs Andreas Spang). It is no strange feat for him to shock his doubters and give his fans an entertaining knock out. Almost more exciting than what he does in the cage, is what he will say afterwards in his post fight interview.
Regardless of the outcome, this match up is guaranteed fireworks, and a striking fans dream fight.