Bogdan Guskov, the Uzbek mixed martial artist known as “Hitman,” has been making waves on the global MMA stage with a rare blend of brute power and surgical precision. Born in a small village in the heart of Central Asia, Guskov turned humble beginnings into fuel for a career that has taken him to the bright lights of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. At 33 years old, he is more than just a fighter—he is a symbol of resilience for MMA fans worldwide. With an impressive record of 18 wins and only 3 losses, Guskov continues to evolve, proving that dedication can lift anyone to the top of the light heavyweight division.

In this article, we explore Guskov’s journey from his first steps in the sport to the latest moments that are shaping his legacy. From electrifying victories to challenges that push human limits, follow how this Uzbek athlete is rewriting his story inside the Octagon.

Early Life: Roots in Dukent and the Call of Combat

Bogdan Vladimirovich Guskov was born on September 12, 1992, in the quiet village of Dukent, Uzbekistan. The son of an ethnic Russian family in a predominantly Muslim country, he grew up in an environment where simplicity ruled daily life. Dukent, a rural area surrounded by vast plains and distant mountains, offered little in the way of modern sports facilities. Yet it was precisely that scarcity that forged Guskov’s character.

From a young age, Bogdan was drawn to combat sports. His father, a boxing enthusiast, encouraged him to train at the few local gyms. By age 10, he was already training seriously in boxing and earned the title of Master of Sports in the discipline. But Guskov didn’t stop there. He branched out into kickboxing, winning a silver medal at the prestigious K-1 Moscow tournament in Eastern Europe. That rock-solid striking foundation—devastating punches and pinpoint kicks—would become the cornerstone of his transition to MMA.

At 18, Guskov moved to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital, in search of bigger opportunities. There he joined the Gor MMA team, a gym that became his second home. Training alongside other rising talents, he learned to incorporate grappling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu into his boxer’s arsenal. “MMA is like life: adapt or be eliminated,” Guskov said in a recent interview. That philosophy propelled him beyond national borders, where he became Uzbekistan’s national MMA champion—a milestone that opened doors to the international pro circuit.

First Steps as a Pro: Building an Undefeated Record

Bogdan Guskov made his professional debut on December 20, 2015, against Biksultan Saburzhanov. A quick first-round knockout announced to the world what was coming: a relentless finisher. Over the following years, he racked up an unbeaten streak of 14 wins, 12 by KO or TKO—numbers that impress even the most skeptical analysts.

On the regional circuits of Asia and Eastern Europe, Guskov faced tough opponents in promotions such as Absolute Championship Berkut (ACB) and M-1 Global. One memorable fight came in 2018 against Magomed Gadzhiev, where he defended his light heavyweight title with a second-round choke. Those battles not only padded his résumé but exposed him to diverse styles: Russian wrestlers, Georgian strikers, and Armenian grapplers. Each victory was a lesson, sharpening his takedown defense—he rarely allows any, averaging zero takedowns absorbed per fight.

In 2020, Guskov signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), an up-and-coming American promotion. He shone in the 2021 season, eliminating opponents with devastating knockouts. A unanimous-decision loss to American Antônio Carlos Jr. in 2022 served as a humbling reminder. “Losing made me stronger,” Guskov reflected. That resilience prepared him for the big leap: the UFC.

Arrival in the UFC: Impactful Debut and Early Wins

The UFC contract came in 2023, and Guskov wasted no time. His debut in September of that year was against Brazil’s Kennedy Nzechukwu at UFC Fight Night: Gane vs. Spivak. In a dominant performance, he submitted Nzechukwu with a triangle choke in the second round, earning Performance of the Night honors. At 31, Guskov was instantly viewed as an immediate threat in the light heavyweight division—a weight class ruled by giants like Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira.

In the following months, he kept the momentum. In December 2023, he TKO’d Maxim Grishin in the first round. The real test came in March 2024 against American Dustin Jacoby. After a tough start, Guskov knocked Jacoby out with a flurry of punches in the third round, solidifying his spot in the top 15. Those wins earned him the #11 ranking by September 2025—an impressive feat for a newcomer.

What sets Guskov apart in the UFC is his adaptability. At 6’3” (1.90 m) with a 76-inch (1.93 m) reach, he uses his length to control distance, firing sharp jabs and leg kicks that wear opponents down. His significant-strike accuracy sits at 55%, and he absorbs only 3.3 strikes per minute—stats that place him among the division’s most efficient fighters.

Lightning Rise: A Four-Fight KO Streak That Shook the Division

From 2024 to 2025, Guskov went on a four-fight knockout streak that launched him into stardom. First, in February 2024, he dispatched Zac Pauga with a brutal uppercut in the opening round. Months later, Ryan Spann fell to a guillotine choke on the ground, showcasing Guskov’s versatility in transitions.

In September 2024, skilled striker Billy Elekana couldn’t withstand a barrage of knees in the clinch. The pinnacle came on July 26, 2025, at UFC on ABC 9 against veteran Nikita Krylov. At 4:18 of the first round, Guskov landed a punch combination that left Krylov unconscious, earning another Performance bonus. That win improved his record to 18-3 and positioned him as a contender for high-stakes matchups.

Analysts praised his growth: “Guskov is no longer just a puncher; he’s a complete predator,” wrote an ESPN columnist. With 15 KOs in 18 victories, he joins an elite group of finishers alongside names like Alex Pereira and Jiří Procházka.

The Draw Against Jan Błachowicz: A Defining Chapter in 2025

2025 brought Guskov’s toughest test yet: a showdown with former champion Jan Błachowicz at UFC 323 in Las Vegas on December 6. Błachowicz, the Polish veteran with wins over Israel Adesanya and Luke Rockhold, was the ultimate proving ground. The co-main event of the Dvalishvili vs. Yan 2 card was seen as a title-eliminator.

The three-round war was brutal. Guskov dominated the first with precise striking, but Błachowicz answered with veteran grappling in the second, surviving a knockdown. In the third, the judges scored it a majority draw—a controversial outcome that split opinions. Guskov landed 47 significant strikes to Błachowicz’s 20, yet the Pole’s experience neutralized ground threats.

In the post-fight press conference, Guskov was philosophical: “Draw or win, I come out stronger. That’s MMA.” The result kept him at #11 but reignited calls for a rematch. For Uzbek and Russian fans, it was a display of heart, proving Guskov belongs at the very top.

Fighting Style, Achievements, and Influences

What makes Guskov unique is his fusion of Uzbek boxing with modern MMA tactics. Trained at Gor MMA in Tashkent, he emphasizes conditioning: mountain runs and intense sparring sessions. His accolades include Master of Sports in MMA and the Uzbek national championship. Outside the Octagon, he serves as an ambassador for the sport in his country, inspiring kids in rural gyms.

Influenced by legends like Fedor Emelianenko and Khabib Nurmagomedov, Guskov balances aggression with patience. His 83% KO finish rate sets him apart in a division full of grapplers.

Personal Life: Family, Motivation, and the Future

Away from the spotlight, Guskov is a family man. Married with two children, he splits time between Tashkent and training camps in Russia. “My wife and kids are my anchor,” he has said. Driven to overcome his childhood hardships, Guskov uses his platform to grow MMA in Uzbekistan, where the sport is gaining serious momentum.

Looking ahead, 2026 looks promising. Rumors swirl of a Błachowicz rematch or a clash with Magomed Ankalaev. At 33, Guskov knows time is limited, but his hunger is insatiable.

Conclusion: Bogdan Guskov’s Legacy in the Making

Bogdan Guskov is more than a fighter—he embodies the Uzbek dream on the global MMA stage. From Dukent to the UFC, his journey inspires generations. With the recent draw against Błachowicz as fuel, Guskov is ready for more glory. In the Octagon where heroes rise and fall, the “Hitman” keeps hunting his crown. Stay tuned: the next chapter of this saga promises to be epic.

Gui Santos, the 23-year-old Brazilian forward, has become one of the most inspiring figures for basketball fans in Brazil. With his on-court versatility and off-court determination, he represents not only national talent but also the relentless drive of someone who dares to dream big. Born in Brasília, Gui forged a path that took him from local courts to stardom in the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he now plays for the Golden State Warriors. His story is one of overcoming obstacles, family, and pure love for the game—and in 2025, he continues to evolve, proving that Brazilian basketball has plenty to offer the world.

This article traces Gui Santos’ steps from childhood to his most recent career highlights. From a kid raised in a family of athletes to a fully established professional in the planet’s most competitive league, his journey motivates young athletes across Brazil.

Childhood and Early Days: Family Roots in Brasília

Guilherme Carvalho dos Santos, known as Gui, was born on June 22, 2002, in Brazil’s federal capital. Growing up in Brasília meant being surrounded by a vibrant sports culture, but it was his family legacy that truly planted the seeds of his passion for basketball. His father, Deivisson Santos, played professionally for five seasons in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) with teams like Brasília and Uberlândia. His mother, Lucineide, was also a basketball player. It’s no surprise that Gui’s younger brother, Eduardo, is following the same path—he started at Minas Tênis Clube, moved to Corinthians, and has already represented Brazil’s youth national teams.

From an early age, Gui absorbed basketball values. “My dad taught me the importance of training hard, even on bad days,” he recalled years later. At age 10, he was already practicing on courts in Gama, a working-class neighborhood in Brasília where equipment was scarce but the hunger to learn was huge. He stood out for his agility and court vision—traits that set him apart from his peers. At 14, he joined the youth academy of Minas Tênis Clube in Belo Horizonte, a move that marked the beginning of his professional development.

Those early years weren’t all glory. Gui dealt with minor injuries and the pressure of adapting to a new city far from family. But it was at Minas that he learned the value of discipline. Daily training sessions, gym work, and school alongside basketball shaped not only his 2.02 m, 100 kg frame but also his mindset. “Basketball taught me resilience,” he reflects. That family foundation and the early challenges at Minas were crucial for what came next.

Rise in Brazilian Basketball: From NBB to the National Team

In 2018, at just 16, Gui made his professional debut with Minas during the 2018-19 NBB season. In his very first year, he became a starter, displaying remarkable maturity. His early numbers—averaging 10 points and 5 rebounds per game—caught the eye of international scouts. Minas, one of Brazil’s most traditional clubs, proved the perfect platform for his growth. In two years, Gui went from prospect to key piece, helping the team reach the playoffs.

A major milestone came in April 2021 when he was selected to the World Team at the Nike Hoop Summit, an event showcasing the best young global talents. Playing alongside future stars, Gui dropped 15 points and dished out precise assists, proving his versatile style—capable of shooting from deep or driving to the rim—could compete anywhere.

At the same time, Gui represented Brazil in youth international competitions. In 2019, at the FIBA South American U17 Championship in Chile, he dominated the final against Argentina with 27 points to secure gold. That title wasn’t just a team achievement; it was the moment Gui realized he could compete at the highest level. His senior national team debut came during qualifiers for the 2022 AmeriCup, where he brought defensive energy and timely shooting.

In the NBB, Gui racked up individual awards and helped Minas reach semifinals. His ability to play multiple positions—small forward or power forward—made him unpredictable. But Brazil was still a springboard. Gui dreamed of the NBA, and in 2022, that dream began to take shape.

The American Dream: NBA Draft and Arrival at the Warriors

2022 was a transformative year. In the NBA Draft held in July, Gui was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 55th overall pick, becoming the 19th Brazilian ever drafted. It was a moment of national pride: after legends like Oscar Schmidt and Leandro Barbosa, Gui represented a new generation. “Being here is a dream I’ve chased since I was a kid,” he said upon being drafted.

Right after the draft, Gui played in the Las Vegas Summer League with the Warriors, averaging 12 points and 6 rebounds while impressing with his defense and fast-break play. To gain rhythm, he was assigned to the Santa Cruz Warriors in the G League. There, he immediately stood out: in the 2022-23 season, he was selected for the Next Up Game, the G League’s all-star showcase.

His official NBA debut came in November 2023 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In just 4 minutes, Gui scored 2 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and recorded 1 assist—a modest but symbolic start. He shuttled between the G League (where he averaged 13.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists over 43 career games) and the main roster. On November 6, 2023, he signed a guaranteed three-year contract with the Warriors, securing the 14th roster spot and becoming the only Brazilian in the league that season.

The recent four-time champion Warriors saw Gui as a versatile bench piece. Under Steve Kerr, he learned the nuances of the modern game: spacing, team defense, and three-point shooting. Despite limited minutes in 2023-24 (23 games, 3.6 PPG), he flashed brilliance, including a monster dunk against the Lakers.

2024-25 Season: Growth and Breakout Moments

The 2024-25 season marked Gui’s consolidation in the NBA. With growing confidence, he appeared in 56 regular-season games, averaging 4.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. His first career start came on January 15, 2025, in a tight 116-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. In 21 minutes, he posted 5 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists, showing his all-around game.

Days later, on January 22, he set a career-high with 16 points against the Sacramento Kings. In the next game against the Chicago Bulls, he exploded for 19 points and 7 rebounds, including five made threes, in a 131-106 blowout that lit up league highlights. Those performances proved Gui was no longer just a rookie—he was a reliable option.

In the playoffs, he played 10 games, averaging 2.6 points, contributing to a strong Warriors run. Off the court, a February 2024 knee injury sidelined him for weeks, but he returned stronger thanks to a rigorous rehab program. In June 2025, the Warriors exercised their team option, keeping him for the 2025-26 season at a fully guaranteed $2.2 million (roughly R$12 million) starting January 2026.

Gui also shone for Brazil at the 2023 FIBA World Cup after being called up in August, reaffirming his commitment to the national team.

Latest Updates: 2025-26 Season Performance

The 2025-26 season started busy for Gui. In November, he was briefly sent to Santa Cruz for minutes but quickly recalled to the main squad. On November 27, he returned to the Warriors’ rotation, playing 12 minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers and scoring 4 points.

The highlight came on December 6, 2025, in a hard-fought 99-94 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the team short-handed due to injuries, Gui came off the bench and dropped 14 points, including clutch free throws in the final minutes that sealed the victory. It was his best recent performance, standing out for defense and timely shooting. “Gui was huge for us in the fourth quarter,” coach Steve Kerr said post-game. The performance came in a game where all 10 active Warriors contributed in a deep rotation.

Gui has also adapted to a hybrid role: G League minutes to sharpen his game, but consistent NBA presence. On November 20, he returned to the bench after a brief starting stint, yet his impact remains undeniable. Brazilian fans follow eagerly, especially with potential national team call-ups looming for 2026.

Personal Life and Legacy: Beyond the Court

Off the court, Gui is a grounded young man. In June 2025, he proposed to his girlfriend of four years, Júlia Lawrenz. Júlia, a volleyball player at the University of Hawaii and former Brazil junior beach volleyball representative, shares the couple’s nomadic life between San Francisco and travel. “She supports me in everything,” Gui says. He uses social media to motivate kids, posting workouts and messages of perseverance.

His legacy goes beyond stats. As the only Brazilian currently in the NBA, Gui is inspiring a new wave of talent. Basketball academies in Brasília and Belo Horizonte are packed with kids wearing his Warriors No. 15 jersey. He hosts clinics in Brazil during the off-season, teaching fundamentals while stressing the importance of education.

Conclusion: The Bright Future of Gui Santos

Gui Santos is more than a player—he is an ambassador for Brazilian basketball. From Brasília to NBA arenas, his journey—of thousands of practices and dribbles—shows that talent, backed by family and persistence, opens doors. With a secure contract and growing performances like his 14-point night against the Cavaliers in December 2025, Gui is ready for more. Brazil cheers him on, knowing every bucket is a collective victory. Let the next chapters of this inspiring story keep coming.

Jalen Johnson has become one of the most exciting figures in the National Basketball Association in recent years. At just 23 years old, the 6’8″ (2.03 m) forward for the Atlanta Hawks displays a rare combination of athletic power, court vision, and versatility that has put him firmly in the spotlight. Born on December 18, 2001, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson embodies the American basketball dream: from a talented kid on local courts to a rising star on the world’s biggest stage. His journey, marked by challenges and explosive flashes of brilliance, reflects the competitive essence of the NBA, where relentless effort can turn prospects into legends.

In this article, we explore Johnson’s path from humble beginnings to the recent achievements that project him as one of the most promising players of his generation. Updated through December 2025, we dive into the details that define not only his career but also the impact he’s having on the sport.

Origins and Early Steps in Basketball

Jalen Johnson’s story begins on the cold streets of Wisconsin, where basketball is woven into the local identity. Raised by parents who valued discipline and sport, Johnson grew up immersed in a culture that reveres athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo—the Greek Freak who also shines in Atlanta. From an early age, he showed a natural gift for the game, dribbling in driveways and competing in youth leagues.

In high school, Johnson attended Nicolet High School in Glendale, where he quickly stood out. His imposing size and agility made him a five-star recruit, ranked among the top wings in the class of 2020. To further hone his skills, he transferred to IMG Academy in Florida—one of the elite basketball factories that produced names like Ben Simmons and RJ Hampton. There, Johnson led his team to an outstanding record, averaging 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while earning McDonald’s All-American honors.

Those formative years were crucial. Johnson wasn’t just a scorer; he learned to read defenses, distribute the ball, and lead quietly. Coaches described him as a “complete athlete” capable of finishing powerfully at the rim or shooting from deep. That solid foundation prepared him for the leap to college basketball, where the professional world was already watching.

A Quick Stint at Duke and the 2021 NBA Draft

In 2020, Johnson chose Duke University, a college basketball powerhouse under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. As a freshman, he joined a loaded roster that included Wendell Moore Jr. and Matthew Hurt. However, his season was short and challenging: in just 13 games, Johnson averaged 11.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2 assists while shooting 45.1% from the field.

Injuries and tactical adjustments limited his minutes, but flashes of brilliance—like a 22-point outburst against Boston College—showed his potential. In February 2021, he made the bold decision to leave Duke early for the NBA Draft, a move that paid off. His choice reflected the modern era of college basketball, where top talents trust their instincts and the eyes of scouts.

In the 2021 NBA Draft, Johnson was selected 20th overall by the Atlanta Hawks, a franchise in rebuild mode after moving on from veterans like Danilo Gallinari. The Hawks saw him as the perfect complement to star point guard Trae Young—someone who could space the floor and finish plays. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $17 million and arrived in the league with moderate expectations but a fierce determination to prove himself.

Adaptation and Growth with the Atlanta Hawks

Johnson’s 2021-22 rookie season was one of intense learning. Playing in just 22 games and averaging 5.5 minutes, he posted 2.4 points and 1.2 rebounds. The NBA’s frenetic pace tested him, but he used G-League time with the College Park Skyhawks to sharpen his three-point shot and defense. In 2022-23, opportunities grew: 39 games, 14.4 minutes, 6.4 points, and 3.8 rebounds, including standout playoff moments that helped Atlanta upset the Boston Celtics in the first round.

The real breakout came in 2023-24. With injuries to teammates like John Collins, Johnson became a full-time starter, playing 33.7 minutes per game and averaging 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks. Shooting 51.1% from the field and 35.5% from three, he became one of the league’s most efficient players. Despite missing time with wrist and ankle issues, he finished the season as one of Atlanta’s brightest spots as the Hawks returned to the playoffs.

In 2024-25, Johnson solidified his status, averaging 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 36 starts. His pick-and-roll chemistry with Trae Young became lethal, and he led the team in rebounding. Persistent injuries—including left-shoulder surgery in January—tested him, but his resilience impressed everyone. In the offseason, Atlanta added Kristaps Porziņģis and Dyson Daniels, creating an ideal supporting cast so Johnson wouldn’t have to carry the entire load.

The Explosion in the 2025-26 Season: Unforgettable Numbers and Moments

The 2025-26 season has been Jalen Johnson’s coming-out party. Through 20 games as of December 2025, he’s averaging a jaw-dropping 23.2 points, 10.0 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 34.9 minutes. His shooting splits? 53.9% from the field, 41.2% from three, and 78.9% from the free-throw line. Those numbers place him in the top-20 in scoring and rebounding, and top-10 in assists among forwards.

November was electric. On November 30 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Johnson set a new career high with 41 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in a wild 142-134 double-overtime victory—one of the most complete performances of his career. Days later, on December 1 against the Detroit Pistons, he posted 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists despite a 99-98 loss.

The pinnacle came on December 5 at home against the Denver Nuggets. Listed as questionable with a right calf strain that had kept him out of the previous game against the Clippers, Johnson came out possessed. In the first half alone, he recorded a historic triple-double: 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists in just 16 minutes. That made him only the fifth player since 1997-98 to notch a triple-double in a half and the second-fastest in NBA history (behind a 15-minute mark). Fans and analysts lost their minds; social media exploded with comparisons to prime Russell Westbrook.

These games aren’t flukes. Over his last 11 contests, Johnson has averaged 25.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and 1.7 steals in 37 minutes. His versatility—guarding guards to centers, elite shooting, and elite playmaking—has thrust him into the MVP conversation, or at the very least, the Most Improved Player race. With the Hawks surging in the East thanks to Porziņģis and company, Johnson is the offensive engine alongside Trae Young.

Playing Style: Versatility and Basketball IQ

What makes Johnson special is his adaptability. As a modern power forward, he seamlessly slides between the 3 and 4 positions, exploiting mismatches. His athletic explosion produces highlight-reel dunks and voracious offensive rebounds—he leads the league in rebounds per game among players under 25. His passing vision, reminiscent of facilitators like LeBron James, creates easy looks for teammates at a 7.3-assist clip.

Defensively, he’s a hound: 1.6 steals per game reflect elite reading of passing lanes. His now-elite 41.2% three-point shooting stretches defenses and opens driving lanes. Critics point to occasional foul trouble (3.3 per game) and inconsistency in low-usage nights, but his work ethic—extra shooting sessions and film study—continues to smooth those edges. In a league of specialists, Johnson is a throwback generalist, valuable in any system.

A Bright Future and a Legacy in the Making

With his rookie contract running through 2025 and extension talks looming, Johnson is on the superstar track. Rumors of a massive new deal have intensified after his Nuggets masterpiece made global headlines. Off the court, he’s active in Atlanta community programs—running basketball camps for underprivileged youth—and has endorsement deals with Nike and Gatorade.

Looking ahead, the goal is deep playoff runs with the Hawks. With young talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Onyeka Okongwu maturing, Johnson could anchor a new era in the Southeast. His calf injury, while manageable, serves as a reminder that health remains the only real obstacle. If he stays on this trajectory, 2026 could be the year he makes his first All-Star team.

Conclusion: A Name to Etch in History

Jalen Johnson is no longer just a prospect—he is a thrilling reality in the NBA. From the courts of Wisconsin to the bright lights of State Farm Arena, his journey inspires millions. As of December 2025, with that lightning-fast triple-double still fresh in everyone’s mind, Johnson represents everything basketball has to offer: overcoming odds, spectacle, and unity. The Hawks and their fans are lucky—and the basketball world has a talent to celebrate for many years to come.