Fedor Emelianenko Addresses Ngannou Fight Rumors, Criticizes Dana White

Fedor Emelianenko recently addressed speculation about a potential fight with Francis Ngannou, clarifying that his comments about facing the former UFC heavyweight champion were in the context of a boxing match and not mixed martial arts. Emelianenko also used the opportunity to voice strong criticism of UFC CEO Dana White regarding past contract negotiations between himself and the promotion.

Ngannou Fight Rumors Clarified

Reports emerged following Emelianenko's remarks to Ushatayka, as translated by Red Corner MMA, where he discussed a hypothetical boxing match with Francis Ngannou. Emelianenko stated that while he would be interested in fighting Ngannou under boxing rules, his body could no longer handle the rigors of MMA competition due to numerous injuries. He emphasized that this was a 'dream scenario' he had mentioned when asked by a fan, and not an indication of active negotiations.

Francis Ngannou, known for his formidable striking power, concluded his UFC tenure with a UFC record of 12-2-0 across 14 fights. His last five UFC victories, prior to his departure, were all decisive, including a unanimous decision win over Ciryl Gane in January 2022 at UFC 270, and a knockout victory against Stipe Miocic in March 2021 at UFC 260. Ngannou, who was 35 years old at the time of his last UFC fight, stands at 6 feet 4 inches tall with an 83-inch reach and fights from an Orthodox stance. His impressive UFC win streak before his final fight stood at five, demonstrating his dominance in the heavyweight division. Ngannou has since transitioned to professional boxing, engaging in high-profile bouts.

Criticism of Dana White

Beyond the fight rumors, Emelianenko sharply criticized Dana White, accusing the UFC executive of inconsistency and a lack of integrity in business dealings. Speaking to Ushatayka, Emelianenko claimed that White 'simply doesn't stand by his words' and that his approach to business 'doesn't sit well' with him. Emelianenko recounted that the UFC frequently showed interest in signing him only when he was already under contract with rival promotions, such as Strikeforce, and not when he was a free agent.

According to Emelianenko, this pattern suggested that the UFC's intent was not always to genuinely sign him, but rather to potentially hinder his ability to compete for other organizations or draw him into legal disputes. He specifically referenced a meeting in 2009, after his victory over Brett Rogers, where he felt the UFC's actions were aimed at pressuring him rather than securing a legitimate deal. Emelianenko, who officially retired from MMA in February 2023 after a loss to Ryan Bader at Bellator 290, expressed his preference for business partners who honor their word without needing extensive contracts.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Francis Ngannou	12-2-0	unranked

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Flyweight King Joshua Van Faces Manel Kape in January Title Defense

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is set to kick off 2027 with a bang, as newly announced bookings reveal a pivotal Flyweight Championship showdown between reigning king Joshua Van and the formidable Manel Kape. This highly anticipated clash headlines a series of intriguing matchups that promise to shape the landscape of multiple divisions.

Flyweight Gold on the Line: Van vs. Kape

Joshua Van, the current UFC Flyweight Champion, will defend his title against the explosive Manel Kape on January 30, 2027. Van, known as 'The Fearless,' boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 18-2-0, with 11 of those wins coming in the UFC. He is recognized as the second-youngest UFC Champion in history. His challenger, Manel 'StarBoy' Kape, enters the octagon with a 23-7-0 professional record and is currently ranked as high as #1 in the UFC Flyweight division. Kape, a former Rizin Bantamweight Champion, has secured 15 of his victories by knockout. This promises to be a high-octane affair, and our model favours Kape, with the line moving towards him as well.

Welterweight Interim Title: Prates vs. Morales

Also slated for January 30, 2027, is a crucial welterweight bout featuring Carlos 'The Nightmare' Prates against the undefeated Michael Morales. Prates, with a professional record of 24-7-0, has been on a tear in the UFC, securing all seven of his Octagon victories by knockout, each earning him a Performance of the Night bonus. His opponent, Michael Morales, remains flawless in his professional career with a perfect 19-0-0 record, including a 7-0 run in the UFC. Morales is currently ranked #3 in the Meta UFC welterweight rankings. This contest has significant divisional implications, and our model favours Prates by a significant margin, a pick that MODEL DISAGREES WITH THE MARKET after early money came in on Morales.

Lightweight Contests Set for November

The lightweight division will see action sooner, with two compelling matchups booked for November 14, 2026. Evan 'The Phenom' Elder (10-2-0 professional, 3-2 UFC) is set to face Samuel 'The Prodigy' Sanches (11-1-0 professional). Elder is on a three-fight winning streak in the UFC and is known for his willingness to step in on short notice. Sanches, with eight knockouts in his 11 wins, has only suffered one professional loss, a heel hook in 2022, and is currently riding an eight-fight winning streak. Our model favours Elder in this clash of rising lightweights.

In another lightweight pairing on the same card, Jared Gordon (21-9-0 professional, 9-8-0 UFC) will take on Melquizael 'The Dalmatian' Costa (26-8-0 professional, 7-3-0 UFC). Gordon has a balanced attack with eight knockouts, two submissions, and eleven decisions to his name. Costa, a southpaw, brings a wealth of experience with 26 wins, split evenly between knockouts, submissions, and decisions. Our model favours Gordon in what is expected to be a gritty encounter.

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Joselyne Edwards Named Official Backup for Harrison-Nunes at UFC 334

Multiple sources, including MMA Fighting, confirmed that Edwards will weigh in as a potential replacement should either Harrison or Nunes be unable to compete on November 14. The news was widely reported by outlets such as Sherdog and Yahoo Sports, highlighting the significance of a contingency plan for such a pivotal title bout.

Edwards' Ascent to Backup Role

Edwards, currently ranked as the #2 contender in the Women's Bantamweight division, has earned this crucial standby position on the strength of an impressive four-fight UFC win streak. Her recent performances have showcased her evolving skill set and determination inside the Octagon. In her most recent outing in April 2026, Edwards secured a unanimous decision victory over Norma Dumont at UFC Fight Night: Sterling vs. Zalal. Notably, pre-fight market odds had Edwards at 35% to win that contest, underscoring her ability to overcome challenging matchups.

Prior to her win against Dumont, Edwards had demonstrated her finishing prowess. In February 2026, she defeated Nora Cornolle via submission with a rear-naked choke in the second round at UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez. Her 2025 campaign saw two first-round stoppages: a knockout/technical knockout by punch against Priscila Cachoeira in August and another knockout/technical knockout by punches against Chelsea Chandler in April. Her current UFC record stands at 9-4-0 across 13 UFC fights, reflecting a significant turnaround in her career trajectory, particularly with her five consecutive UFC wins dating back to October 2024.

The Championship Main Event

The main event Edwards is backing up features the reigning Women's Bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison, defending her title against the returning legend Amanda Nunes. Harrison, with an undefeated UFC record of 3-0-0 in three UFC fights, captured the championship and has quickly established herself as a dominant force in the division. Her last fight in June 2025 at UFC 316 saw her defeat Julianna Pena by submission via Kimura in the second round. Harrison, who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall with a 66-inch reach, has also demonstrated exceptional grappling, boasting a 100% takedown defense rate in her UFC career.

The addition of a formidable and in-form fighter like Joselyne Edwards as the official backup ensures that the bantamweight championship picture remains robust, even in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Joselyne Edwards	9-4-0	Women Bantamweight #2
Kayla Harrison	3-0-0	Women Bantamweight champion

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Marchand's Ambitious European Tour Kicks Off IBJJF Season

The upcoming IBJJF season promises thrilling action as elite black belts finalize their entries, with Lillian Jane Marchand leading the charge with an exceptionally ambitious schedule. The Canadian grappler, rated 1740 Elo and ranked #57 globally, is set to compete in three major events across Europe in a span of just over a week, showcasing her dedication to both gi and no-gi competition.

Lillian Marchand's European Gauntlet

Lillian Jane Marchand, representing VA Jiu Jitsu Luxembourg, will kick off her intense European campaign at the Paris Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship 2026 on November 28. With 30 career golds and 47 medals total, Marchand is a formidable presence in the Black / Adult / Female / Light division. Just a week later, on December 5, she will double down in Dublin, entering both the Dublin Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026 (gi) and the Dublin Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship 2026. This back-to-back-to-back schedule across two countries and both rule sets is a testament to Marchand’s competitive spirit and her readiness to challenge herself at the highest level. Marchand, who earned her black belt in 2025, has already proven her prowess with a World No-Gi Championship title in 2025 and 2026. Her ability to adapt across divisions and rule sets will be severely tested, but her history of success, including a 2-1 record against Elisabeth Clay as of May 2026, suggests she thrives under pressure.

Super-Heavyweight Showdown in Atlanta

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026, scheduled for November 14 at the Georgia International Convention Center, will feature the powerful Larissa Dias de Almeida. Rated 1754 Elo and ranked #54, Dias de Almeida brings an impressive record of 104 career golds and 116 medals total to the Black / Adult / Female / Super-Heavy division. Representing Elementum Jiu Jitsu, Larissa is a two-time IBJJF World Champion (2022, 2025) and a two-time Pan Champion (2023, 2025), known for her pressure-based game and strong leg attacks. Her entry promises a high-stakes battle in the super-heavyweight category, where her experience and finishing ability will make her a top contender.

Brazilian Power in São Paulo

Closer to home, the São Paulo BJJ Pro IBJJF Championship 2026 on November 21 will see Anderson Munis dos Santos enter the Black / Adult / Male / Ultra-Heavy division. With an Elo rating of 1621 and ranked #107, Munis dos Santos, from Hoko Jiu Jitsu, boasts 55 career golds and 75 medals total. A 2024 IBJJF World and Pan Champion, Anderson is a dominant force in the heavyweight divisions. His participation in this prestigious Brazilian event is sure to draw significant attention, as he looks to add another major title to his already impressive resume.

No-Gi Worlds and European Ambitions

The highly anticipated World IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship 2026 in Las Vegas will host Elisabeth Ann Clay in the Black / Adult / Female / Middle division on December 10. Clay, with an Elo of 1573 and ranked #148, is a renowned no-gi specialist with 53 career golds and 77 medals total. Representing Six Blades Jiu Jitsu Fort Worth Team Marra, she is a multiple-time No-Gi World Champion (2021, 2022, 2024, 2025) and a Polaris Grand Prix winner. Her return to the No-Gi Worlds after a remarkable comeback to competition following motherhood in 2024, where she won double gold at No-Gi Pans just 76 days postpartum, highlights her enduring elite status. Clay has also openly expressed her desire to secure a Gi Worlds title, having reached the finals twice, but her focus here will be on dominating the no-gi landscape once again.

Looking ahead to the new year, Vinicius Liberati has entered the European IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2027, set for January 13 in Odivelas, Portugal. Liberati, rated 1553 Elo and ranked #166, will compete in the Black / Adult / Male / Super-Heavy division. A member of Soldiers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, he has accumulated 45 career golds and 71 medals total. Liberati is a 2026 IBJJF World and European Champion, known for his strategic, positional game. His entry into the European Championship signals his intent to start 2027 with another significant victory on the international stage.

These early entries from some of the sport's most decorated athletes promise an exciting close to 2026 and an electrifying start to 2027, with high-level jiu-jitsu action across multiple continents and divisions.

Entry list — elite black belts

Athlete	Event	Division
Larissa Almeida	Atlanta Fall	Super-Heavy
Lillian Jane Marchand	Paris Fall No-Gi	Light
Lillian Jane Marchand	Dublin Fall	Light
Lillian Jane Marchand	Dublin Fall No-Gi	Light
Anderson Santos	São Paulo BJJ Pro	Ultra-Heavy
Elisabeth Ann Clay	World No-Gi	Middle
Vinicius Liberati	European	Super-Heavy

Elo and career medal counts from bjjmetrics. Entries are IBJJF black belt adult divisions only.

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Quillan Salkilld vs. Benoit Saint-Denis Headlines UFC Sydney on February 7

Australian lightweight standout Quillan Salkilld is booked to face France's Benoit Saint-Denis in a five-round main event at UFC Sydney on February 7.

The Main Event Matchup

The booking pits two top-ranked lightweights against each other, with Salkilld fighting on home soil. UFC Senior Vice President for Australia and New Zealand, Peter Kloczko, noted that the main event delivers everything the promotion looks for in the sport, describing Salkilld as one of the division's breakout stars and Saint-Denis as a dangerous and exciting finisher. NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper also commented on the fight, stating that it is expected to draw thousands of fans to Sydney.

Quillan Salkilld enters this contest with an unblemished UFC record of 6-0-0 across six fights. The twenty-six-year-old, who stands six feet tall with a seventy-five-inch reach and fights from an Orthodox stance, has been on a dominant run. His UFC win streak currently stands at six consecutive victories. Salkilld's last outing in August saw him secure a first-round submission victory over Mateusz Gamrot via rear-naked choke at four minutes and twenty-five seconds of the first round. The pre-fight market had Salkilld at a fifty-six percent chance to win that bout.

Prior to his win over Gamrot, Salkilld delivered another impressive performance in May, defeating Beneil Dariush by knockout via punches in the first round at three minutes and twenty-nine seconds. The market had him at seventy-seven percent to win that fight. His finishing prowess was also on display in January, when he submitted Jamie Mullarkey with a neck crank in the first round at three minutes and two seconds. In October of the previous year, Salkilld knocked out Nasrat Haqparast with a kick in the first round at two minutes and thirty seconds. His UFC debut in June of the prior year saw him earn a unanimous decision victory over Yanal Ashmouz after three rounds.

Salkilld's Trajectory

Salkilld's consistent performances have propelled him up the lightweight rankings, where he currently holds the #7 spot. His Elo rating after his last fight stands at 1125, reflecting his strong run in the division. Beyond his striking, Salkilld has demonstrated a grappling threat, averaging 2.0 takedowns per fight with a twenty-five percent accuracy before his last fight. His takedown defense stands at fifty-three percent.

The Australian fighter has expressed interest in facing top contenders, and this matchup against Saint-Denis presents a significant challenge. Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski offered a concise prediction on the fight, stating, "I like 'BSD'. Quillan smokes him." The event marks the UFC's return to Sydney for a Fight Night since 2017, and it is the fourth consecutive annual UFC event in New South Wales.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Quillan Salkilld	6-0-0	Lightweight #7

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Blanchfield Drops Five Spots in Women's P4P After Jasudavicius Loss

Erin Blanchfield now sits at number 14 in the Women's Pound-for-Pound rankings, a notable five-spot descent from her previous position at number nine in the latest UFC update.

Women's Pound-for-Pound Sees Significant Shifts

The most impactful change in the Women's Pound-for-Pound rankings stems directly from a recent clash in the Octagon. Erin Blanchfield's drop to the 14th spot is a direct consequence of her unanimous decision loss to Jasmine Jasudavicius at UFC Fight Night: Buckley vs. Malott on October 17, 2026. This head-to-head victory propelled Jasudavicius up one position, moving from number 12 to number 11 in the rankings. The bout, which saw Jasudavicius secure a decisive win over the previously higher-ranked Blanchfield, clearly influenced the media panel's voting, reflecting the immediate impact of direct competition.

Beyond this significant shuffle, several other fighters experienced minor upward adjustments in the Women's Pound-for-Pound list, though the specific reasons for these movements are not immediately apparent from available data. Virna Jandiroba moves up one spot from 11 to 10. Jandiroba has been active, securing a unanimous decision win over Tabatha Ricci in April 2026, and even challenging for the strawweight title in October 2025. Despite her recent activity, the precise rationale for this particular one-place rise in the pound-for-pound standings remains without an obvious explanation from our data.

Similarly, Julianna Peña climbs from 10 to nine. Peña, a former two-time UFC women's bantamweight champion, last competed in June 2025, where she lost her championship to Kayla Harrison. Her upward movement in the rankings, despite over a year of inactivity, lacks a clear, data-backed explanation within this ranking window.

Raquel Pennington also sees a one-place improvement, moving from 14 to 13. Pennington, a former women's bantamweight champion, last fought in October 2024, losing to Julianna Peña. Her rise, like Peña's, occurs without an obvious fight or event in the current window to explain the change.

Finally, Rose Namajunas advances from 13 to 12. Namajunas, a former UFC strawweight champion, was last in action in January 2026, suffering a unanimous decision loss to Natalia Silva. While she has been active within the last year, the specific reason for this single-spot gain in the pound-for-pound rankings is not explicitly detailed by our data.

Men's Pound-for-Pound Sees Minor Adjustment

In the Men's Pound-for-Pound rankings, Tom Aspinall experiences a slight dip, moving from number seven to number eight. Aspinall, a former UFC heavyweight champion, has not had a fight on record within the current ranking window. Consequently, our data does not provide a specific, data-backed reason for this particular one-place adjustment in his standing.

Every change in this update

Division	Fighter	Move
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Erin Blanchfield	▼ 9 → 14
Men's Pound-for-Pound	Tom Aspinall	▼ 7 → 8
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Virna Jandiroba	▲ 11 → 10
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Julianna Peña	▲ 10 → 9
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Raquel Pennington	▲ 14 → 13
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Jasmine Jasudavicius	▲ 12 → 11
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Rose Namajunas	▲ 13 → 12

Changes are between two consecutive snapshots of the official UFC rankings.

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UFC Faces Backlash After Islam Makhachev Declines Prates Bout, Interim Title Created

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has drawn criticism following its decision to introduce an interim welterweight title bout between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales. This development comes after undisputed welterweight champion Islam Makhachev declined a potential January 30, 2027, fight against Prates at UFC 336.

Makhachev's Stance and the Interim Belt

Makhachev, who holds a formidable UFC record of 18-1-0, explained his rationale for turning down the matchup. According to Sportskeeda, he cited Prates' recent loss to Ian Machado Garry in April 2025 as a primary factor, noting that he himself had defeated Garry by unanimous decision in August 2026 at UFC 330. Makhachev expressed a desire for Prates and Michael Morales to compete against each other to establish a clear number one contender, stating, “They offered me a fight with Prates, who recently lost to [Ian Garry], someone I beat. If I beat him, Morales would already be next in line, who's not fighting and waiting for [a title shot]. Just let them fight and we will figure out who's the real challenger.” Additionally, reports from Wrestling World indicated that Makhachev intends to return to competition after the holy month of Ramadan, which concludes in March 2027.

In response to Makhachev's unavailability, the UFC moved forward with booking Carlos Prates, ranked as the Welterweight #2, against Michael Morales for an interim welterweight championship at UFC 336. This fight is officially scheduled for January 30, 2027, and the winner is expected to face Makhachev in a title unification bout.

Reactions from the MMA Community

The UFC's decision to create an interim title has generated varied reactions. Veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, criticized the timing of the interim belt, questioning its necessity given that Makhachev last fought in August 2026, just five months prior to the scheduled interim title fight. Helwani suggested that the move might be a tactic by the UFC to pressure the champion. He also highlighted that Prates has since rebounded from his loss to Garry with two consecutive finishes, making Makhachev's reasoning less compelling in his view.

Conversely, former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo publicly defended Makhachev's decision. According to Heavy.com, Cejudo agreed with Makhachev's assessment that Prates and Morales should compete to determine the rightful top contender for the undisputed title.

Carlos Prates, meanwhile, expressed his frustration directly, accusing Makhachev of delaying his championship aspirations. Prates, who holds a UFC record of 7-1-0 and was 32 years old at his last fight, has been on a two-fight UFC win streak since his loss to Ian Machado Garry in April 2025. His recent victories include a knockout of Jack Della Maddalena in May 2026 and a knockout of Leon Edwards in November 2025. Prates is known for his striking, with all seven of his UFC wins coming by knockout. Makhachev, the reigning welterweight champion, was 34 years old at his last fight in August 2026, where he defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision, extending his UFC win streak to 16. His impressive run includes a submission victory over Dustin Poirier in June 2024 and a knockout of Alexander Volkanovski in October 2023. Makhachev's takedown accuracy stands at 54% with 2.1 takedowns per fight, complemented by a 77% takedown defense rate.

The interim welterweight title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales at UFC 336 will proceed as planned on January 30, 2027, with the winner slated to challenge Islam Makhachev for the undisputed championship.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Islam Makhachev	18-1-0	Welterweight champion
Carlos Prates	7-1-0	Welterweight #2

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Andrew and Dias de Almeida Claim IBJJF Open Golds

Fellipe Andrew Leandro Silva, representing AOJ, continued his impressive run by securing a gold medal in the Heavy division at the Orange County Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship on October 24, 2026. Andrew, an elite black belt with an Elo rating of 1829 and ranked #33 in the world, consistently demonstrates why he is considered among the top competitors globally, adding another significant title to his extensive resume.

Andrew's Path to Gold

Andrew navigated a competitive, albeit small, Heavyweight bracket, winning two matches on his path to the top of the podium. His journey began in the semi-final, where he faced Dory Raymond Aoun of Lucas Leite Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Andrew secured the victory over Aoun, an opponent ranked #2389 globally, marking a routine win for the highly-rated competitor. This set the stage for the final, where Andrew was pitted against Samir Abdol Kader from Carlson Gracie Henderson. Andrew once again demonstrated his superior technique and strategic approach, defeating Kader, who holds a global rank of #2133, to decisively claim the gold medal.

These victories underscore Andrew's consistent performance at the elite level, regardless of the event size. With an astounding 96 career gold medals from a total of 124 medals, his presence on any podium is a testament to his enduring skill, dedication, and competitive drive. His recent successes also include Heavy division golds at the prestigious World Master 2026 and the San Diego Summer 2026, further solidifying his status as one of the sport's most formidable heavyweights and a consistent threat in any bracket he enters.

Dias de Almeida Dominates Super Heavy

Larissa Dias de Almeida of Elementum Jiu Jitsu also made her mark on the IBJJF circuit, claiming gold in the Super Heavy division at the Ft. Lauderdale 2026 event on October 17, 2026. Dias de Almeida, ranked #54 globally with an Elo rating of 1754, showcased her formidable prowess in a division that saw her secure gold with a single, decisive victory, highlighting her ability to perform under pressure even in compact fields.

While Dias de Almeida also competed in the Open Class division at the same event, her primary focus culminated in the Super Heavy gold. In the Open Class, she demonstrated her versatility by defeating an unrated opponent, Thaina Wisniewski de Freitas, before ultimately falling to another unrated competitor, Iris Nascimento da Costa Feliz. Despite not achieving double gold, her performance in the Super Heavy division was more than enough to earn her the top spot, further cementing her reputation as a dominant force.

This latest triumph further enhances Dias de Almeida's remarkable career statistics, which include an astounding 104 career gold medals from 116 total medals. Her consistent ability to reach the podium and secure titles is a hallmark of her career, reflecting years of dedicated training and competitive excellence. Her recent string of victories highlights her sustained success, with multiple golds at the Ft. Lauderdale No-Gi 2026 (both Open Class and Super Heavy), the New York Summer 2026 (Super Heavy and Open Class), and an Open Class gold at the Orlando Summer 2026. These results firmly establish her as a dominant and consistent force in the women's black belt divisions, a true testament to her enduring skill.

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Bantamweight's Longest Absences: Moraes Leads the List

In the Bantamweight division, Marlon Moraes currently holds the top spot for the longest time since his last UFC fight, with 1690 days having passed. This statistic measures the number of days since a fighter last competed in the UFC. To qualify for this list, a fighter must have participated in at least three UFC fights, and those who have been inactive for more than five years are considered retired and are not included. Out of 266 Bantamweight fighters on record, 108 met these criteria, providing a clear look at current inactivity within the division.

The Top of the List: Moraes, Valiev, and Croom

Marlon Moraes leads the Bantamweight division with 1690 days since his last UFC appearance. His last fight was on 12 March 2022. At 38 years old, Moraes holds a UFC record of 5 wins and 6 losses across 11 fights. This extended period of inactivity follows a career that included a significant number of bouts within the organization.

Closely behind is Timur Valiev, who has accumulated 1683 days since his last fight on 19 March 2022. Valiev, aged 37, has a UFC record of 2 wins and 1 loss from 3 UFC fights. His placement high on this list with a relatively low number of UFC appearances suggests a shorter, more concentrated period of activity before his current layoff. Records based on fewer fights can sometimes present a less comprehensive picture of a fighter's overall tenure.

Kevin Croom ranks third with 1655 days since his last bout on 16 April 2022. Croom, 39 years old, has a UFC record of 0 wins and 3 losses from his 3 UFC fights. Like Valiev, his presence on this list stems from a short UFC career, but in Croom's case, it was without a victory.

Veteran Presences and Notable Absences

Further down the list, Louis Smolka sits at 1627 days since his last fight on 14 May 2022. At 35 years old, Smolka has a more extensive UFC history with 8 wins and 9 losses over 17 fights, indicating a longer and more active career prior to his current absence.

Eddie Wineland and Tony Kelley share the same duration of inactivity, both at 1592 days, having last fought on 18 June 2022. Wineland, 42 years old, has a UFC record of 6 wins and 10 losses across 16 fights, marking him as one of the most experienced fighters on this list by fight count and age. Kelley, 40 years old, has a record of 2 wins and 2 losses from 4 UFC fights, representing a shorter career span compared to Wineland.

Raulian Paiva is next with 1585 days since his last fight on 25 June 2022. Paiva, 31, holds a UFC record of 3 wins and 4 losses from 7 fights. Ronnie Lawrence follows with 1571 days since his last appearance on 09 July 2022. Lawrence, 34, has a record of 2 wins and 1 loss from 3 UFC fights, similar to Timur Valiev in terms of fight count.

A notable name on the list is Dominick Cruz, with 1536 days since his last fight on 13 August 2022. Cruz, 42 years old, has a UFC record of 7 wins and 3 losses from 10 fights. His record stands out among those on the list for its positive win-loss ratio over a significant number of bouts and his advanced age for the division.

Rounding out the top ten is Khalid Taha, who has been inactive for 1515 days since his last fight on 03 September 2022. Taha, 35, has a UFC record of 1 win and 4 losses from 5 fights.

This leaderboard highlights a range of Bantamweight fighters who have been out of active competition for a substantial period, from those with brief UFC tenures to veterans with numerous fights under their belt. The data provides a factual overview of current inactivity within the division based on the specified criteria.

Bantamweight — longest time since last fight

Fighter	Days out	UFC fights
1. Marlon Moraes	1690 days	11 fights
2. Timur Valiev	1683 days	3 fights
3. Kevin Croom	1655 days	3 fights
4. Louis Smolka	1627 days	17 fights
5. Eddie Wineland	1592 days	16 fights
6. Tony Kelley	1592 days	4 fights
7. Raulian Paiva	1585 days	7 fights
8. Ronnie Lawrence	1571 days	3 fights
9. Dominick Cruz	1536 days	10 fights
10. Khalid Taha	1515 days	5 fights

Career statistics from UFC Stats; Elo is bjjmetrics' own rating from UFC results. Updated twice a day.

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Volkanovski's UFC 333 Win Sparks GOAT Debate, Inspires Adesanya

Alexander Volkanovski's dominant victory at UFC 333 has initiated widespread discussions regarding his status as the greatest featherweight of all time and beyond, while also providing inspiration for former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.

Volkanovski secured a decisive win against Movsar Evloev by KO/TKO punches in the second round at 4:54 of their featherweight championship bout on October 24, 2026. This performance led Sherdog to report that his win reignited the GOAT debate in the sport. Adding another layer to his impressive showing, Sherdog also revealed that Volkanovski refused pre-fight medication before his title defense.

Adesanya's Renewed Motivation

The Australian champion's masterclass at UFC 333 resonated deeply with Israel Adesanya. NDTV Sports reported that Adesanya found new inspiration following Volkanovski’s performance. Yahoo Sports echoed this sentiment, stating that Adesanya found new motivation for a UFC comeback after the finish. Adesanya, who holds a UFC record of 13-6-0 across nineteen UFC fights, has faced a challenging period in his career, with his last win coming in April 2023 at UFC 287 against Alex Pereira. Since then, he has suffered four consecutive losses, including a submission defeat to Dricus Du Plessis in August 2024 and a TKO loss to Joe Pyfer in March 2026. Currently ranked #9 in the Middleweight division, Adesanya's takedown defense stands at 73% before his last fight, with an Elo rating of 1113 after his most recent bout.

Reactions and Challenges

The aftermath of UFC 333 also saw specific reactions from other fighters within the sport. Chris Weidman, a former UFC Middleweight Champion, criticized Movsar Evloev’s wrestling performance during the fight, labeling it 'lazy,' according to Sherdog. Evloev, who entered the bout with an undefeated professional record, suffered his first career loss against Volkanovski. Meanwhile, Lerone Murphy publicly questioned the criteria for featherweight title shots following Volkanovski’s victory, as reported by MMA Sucka.

Beyond the immediate reactions, Volkanovski's dominant showing has also attracted attention from champions outside the UFC. Sherdog reported that an undefeated PFL and Rizin champion, boasting a 20-0 professional record, has issued a challenge to Volkanovski.

Volkanovski's Reign Continues

Alexander Volkanovski, currently ranked #2 in the Men's Pound-for-Pound rankings and holding the Featherweight championship, extended his UFC record to 16-3-0 across nineteen UFC fights with his win over Evloev. This victory marked his third consecutive win, following unanimous decision victories over Diego Lopes in April 2025 and January 2026. Before this recent win streak, Volkanovski experienced two losses in 2023 and 2024, first to Islam Makhachev at Lightweight in October 2023 and then to Ilia Topuria at Featherweight in February 2024. His age at his last fight was 38, standing at 5' 6'' with a 71'' reach and fighting from an Orthodox stance. His takedown defense before his last fight was 69%, with an average of 1.8 takedowns per fight at 35% accuracy. His Elo rating after his last fight stands at 1213. No next fight is currently booked on the UFC schedule for the featherweight champion.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Alexander Volkanovski	16-3-0	Featherweight champion
Israel Adesanya	13-6-0	Middleweight #9

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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UFC Fight Night 292: Moicano vs. Nolan Fight Card and Viewing Details Released

UFC Fight Night 292, also known as UFC Vegas 123, is set to take place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will be headlined by a lightweight clash between Renato Moicano and Tom Nolan, with the full fight card and viewing information now available to the public.

Main Event Spotlight: Moicano vs. Nolan

Renato Moicano, currently ranked #12 in the lightweight division, brings a wealth of experience with 20 UFC fights and a UFC record of 13-7-0. His opponent, Tom Nolan, ranked #14, is a rising star with a UFC record of 5-1-0 across six UFC bouts.

Moicano, at 36 years old, stands 5 feet 11 inches tall with a 72-inch reach and fights from an orthodox stance. His last outing in April 2026 saw him secure a victory over Chris Duncan via submission with a rear-naked choke in the second round, a fight where the pre-fight market had him at 44% to win. He has also notched significant wins against Benoit Saint Denis in September 2024 and Jalin Turner in April 2024, though he faced losses to Beneil Dariush in June 2025 and Islam Makhachev in January 2025. Moicano's grappling prowess is evident in his 1.1 takedowns per fight at 40% accuracy, complemented by a 75% takedown defense rate.

On the other side, the 26-year-old Tom Nolan, a southpaw, measures 6 feet 3 inches with a 73-inch reach. Nolan enters this main event riding a five-fight UFC win streak. His most recent victory came in June 2026, a unanimous decision over Fares Ziam, where the pre-fight market had him at 28% to win. Prior to that, he secured a submission win against Charlie Campbell in September 2025 and unanimous decision victories over Viacheslav Borshchev in February 2025 and Alex Reyes in August 2024. Nolan's takedown statistics show 0.4 takedowns per fight at 56% accuracy, coupled with a strong 87% takedown defense.

Fight Card and Viewing Information

Beyond the main event, UFC Fight Night 292 features a compelling lineup of bouts. The main card includes Randy Brown facing Jacobe Smith, Yana Santos taking on Luana Santos, and Ode' Osbourne clashing with Cody Durden. Other main card attractions include Zachary Reese against Mickey Gall, and Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani battling Farman Hasanov. Notably, Jacobe Smith stepped in as a replacement for Carlos Leal in his welterweight bout against Randy Brown.

For fans looking to tune in, the main card of UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET. Viewers in the United States can catch all the action live on Paramount+.

Early Outlook

Early betting lines for the main event indicate a close contest. SportsLine MMA expert Kyle Marley has offered his predictions for the card, noting that Tom Nolan is an early favorite at -115, with Renato Moicano close behind at -105. Additionally, the Combat Edge model, which computes win probabilities based on Elo ratings, records, and matchup data, projects Tom Nolan to win with a 71% probability.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Renato Moicano	13-7-0	Lightweight #12
Tom Nolan	5-1-0	Lightweight #14

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Sean O'Malley Pushes for Petr Yan Rematch, Calls it 'Biggest Bantamweight Fight'

Following Petr Yan's successful title defense at UFC 333, Sean O'Malley has intensified his campaign for a bantamweight championship rematch, declaring it would be the biggest fight in the division's history. O'Malley, the current number two ranked bantamweight, wasted no time in sending a direct message to the champion after his victory, stating, “Petr Yan! You're out there celebrating your victory. I'm training, in the rain.”

O'Malley's Persistent Challenge

O'Malley has been vocal about his desire for a second encounter with Yan, a sentiment he has expressed consistently, including in the lead-up to UFC 333. According to MMA Sucka, O'Malley believes a rematch would surpass previous division records in terms of numbers and gate revenue. This push for a title shot comes after Yan, the reigning bantamweight champion, secured a unanimous decision victory over Merab Dvalishvili in a five-round contest at UFC 333 in October 2026. Yan, who is 33 years old, now holds a UFC record of 13-4-0, and extended his UFC win streak to four fights with that win.

The initial clash between O'Malley and Yan at UFC 280 in October 2022 resulted in a split decision win for O'Malley, a verdict that generated considerable debate among fans and pundits alike. Many observers felt the decision could have gone the other way, adding a layer of unresolved tension to their rivalry. Since that contested bout, O'Malley, who is 31 years old, has compiled a UFC record of 12-3-0. His most recent outing saw him defeat Aiemann Zahabi by KO/TKO punches in the second round at UFC Freedom 250 in June 2026, a fight where the pre-fight market had him at an 80% chance to win. Prior to that, in January 2026, he secured a unanimous decision victory over Song Yadong at UFC 324.

Champion's Perspective and UFC Considerations

Petr Yan, whose official UFC ranking places him as the Bantamweight champion and fourth in the Men's Pound-for-Pound rankings, has also shown interest in a rematch. Before his recent defense at UFC 333, Yan told MMA Fighting in October that given their history, a fight with O'Malley would be a logical next step. His last fight against Merab Dvalishvili was a hard-fought battle, with the pre-fight market giving Yan a 48% chance to win, highlighting the competitive nature of the contest. Yan's takedown defense stands at 87%, a significant factor in his grappling exchanges, while O'Malley's takedown defense is 69%.

UFC CEO Dana White has acknowledged the strong contenders vying for the next bantamweight title opportunity. Following UFC 333, White revealed that discussions had centered on two primary candidates for Yan's next opponent: Sean O'Malley and Song Yadong. While the UFC has yet to officially announce the next challenger, O'Malley's consistent call-outs and recent performances are clearly positioning him for a potential championship showdown.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Sean O'Malley	12-3-0	Bantamweight #2
Petr Yan	13-4-0	Bantamweight champion

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Volkanovski KOs Evloev, Thicknesse Stuns Chopurov at UFC 333

UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev, held on October 24, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, proved to be a night of unexpected turns and thrilling finishes, with several underdogs defying the odds. While Alexander Volkanovski retained his featherweight title in the main event, the most significant upset of the evening saw Colby Thicknesse hand the highly-touted, previously undefeated Asaf Chopurov his first professional loss.

Alexander Volkanovski Defends Featherweight Title in Thrilling Upset

Alexander Volkanovski, entering the cage as a slight 1.1-to-1 underdog against the undefeated Movsar Evloev, delivered a stunning performance to retain his featherweight championship. The Australian icon secured a knockout victory via punches late in the second round, at four minutes and fifty-four seconds. This emphatic win marked Evloev's first professional defeat, shifting his record to 10-1-0, while Volkanovski improved to 16-3-0.

The fight was anticipated to be a tight and intense affair, but Volkanovski ended it in remarkable fashion, flooring the Russian challenger with a series of heavy hits before the referee intervened with just six seconds left in the round. Commentators lauded Volkanovski's performance, with Paul Felder calling it "unreal" and Jon Anik declaring him "one of the greatest of all time". Daniel Cormier described the fight as a "shut out, a no-hitter," noting that Volkanovski sustained only a minor face cut.

Volkanovski's victory, especially in such dominant fashion, can keep his Hall of Fame-worthy career flourishing, defying expectations that a defeat might end his run. He expressed satisfaction with the finish, stating he had promised his wife a "quick one" for their wedding anniversary. Evloev, despite the loss, remained gracious, calling Volkanovski a "great champion" and an honor to share the cage with.

Colby Thicknesse Stuns Undefeated Asaf Chopurov

In what was undeniably the biggest upset of UFC 333, Colby Thicknesse defeated Asaf Chopurov by a split decision after three rounds, with judges scoring it 29-28, 28-29, and 29-28 in favor of Thicknesse. Chopurov, making his UFC debut with a perfect 0-0-0 record (and a lengthy amateur career), was a heavy favorite at 70%, but Thicknesse, a 2.3-to-1 underdog, spoiled his professional debut. The bantamweight contest saw Thicknesse attempt a guillotine choke in the first round, which Chopurov escaped, and also landed elbows and knees from the clinch in the second. The final round featured more grappling exchanges, with both fighters still attacking until the final horn. The split decision, particularly a controversial 10-9 scorecard in the first round for Thicknesse from one judge, sparked debate among fans, as many believed Chopurov had controlled the opening frame. Thicknesse's record improved to 3-1-0, while Chopurov's perfect professional record was blemished to 0-1-0.

Dominick Reyes Delivers First-Round Knockout Against Azamat Murzakanov

Dominick Reyes, a significant 1.8-to-1 underdog, made a resounding statement by defeating Azamat Murzakanov with a first-round knockout at two minutes and forty seconds. Reyes, who entered the bout with a 10-5-0 record, improved to 11-5-0, while Murzakanov's record fell to 6-2-0. Reyes targeted Murzakanov's lead leg with low kicks early in the fight, then capitalized on his opponent's anticipation of another low kick by unleashing a high kick that wrapped around Murzakanov's head. Though Murzakanov attempted to mask his distress, Reyes followed up with a powerful left straight that floored him, leading to ground-and-pound and the referee's stoppage. This victory marked Reyes' second consecutive win, signaling a potential revitalization of his career after a challenging period.

Petr Yan Wins Trilogy Bout Against Merab Dvalishvili

Petr Yan successfully defended his bantamweight title, defeating Merab Dvalishvili by unanimous decision after five rounds, with all three judges scoring the bout 48-47. Yan, who was a slight 1.1-to-1 underdog, improved his record to 13-4-0, while Dvalishvili's record moved to 14-4-0. This victory settled their trilogy, with Yan now holding a 2-1 advantage in their series. Dvalishvili started strong, relying on his wrestling and takedown attempts to control the opening two rounds. However, Yan made a significant comeback from the third round onwards, stuffing takedowns and landing impactful strikes, including a liver kick that visibly hurt Dvalishvili. Yan's ability to defend takedowns and land cleaner strikes ultimately secured him the unanimous decision.

Alexander Volkov Dominates Rizvan Kuniev

Alexander Volkov, a heavy favorite at 86%, secured a unanimous decision victory over Rizvan Kuniev after three rounds, with scorecards reading 29-28, 30-27, and 30-27. Volkov, improving his record to 15-5-0, demonstrated control and technical striking throughout the fight, keeping Kuniev at range and mixing in kicks and punches. He even showcased his grappling skills late in the third round, attempting a rear-naked choke. This win extends Volkov's winning streak to three and led him to call for a heavyweight title shot in his post-fight interview. Kuniev's record now stands at 2-2-0.

Grant Dawson Earns Decision Over Nurullo Aliev

Grant Dawson, a slight favorite at 51%, defeated Nurullo Aliev by unanimous decision after three rounds. Dawson's record advanced to 13-2-0, while Aliev's first professional loss brought his record to 4-1-0. Both fighters are known for their grappling, and the bout was anticipated to be a grappling chess match. Aliev, who had landed 14 takedowns in his previous four UFC appearances, faced a tough challenge in Dawson's proven wrestling and submission game.

The undercard also featured several notable finishes and upsets. Daniel Santos, a 1.3-to-1 underdog, defeated Bolaji Oki by unanimous decision, improving his record to 5-2-0. Abus Magomedov secured a first-round submission via guillotine choke against Cam Rowston, moving his record to 6-3-0. Kody Steele delivered a first-round knockout with punches against Noah Gugnon, bringing his record to 2-1-0. Abubakar Vagaev earned a unanimous decision victory over Jacob Malkoun, pushing his record to 2-0-0. Iasmin Lucindo defeated Nicolle Caliari by unanimous decision, with Lucindo's record now 6-2-0. Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev stopped Nikita Krylov with a first-round knockout via knee, advancing his record to 4-0-0. Aaron Pico secured a first-round knockout with punches against Losene Keita, improving to 2-1-0. Finally, Lone'er Kavanagh delivered a first-round knockout with punches against Ramazan Temirov, moving his record to 4-2-0.

UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev — full results

Winner	Defeated	How
Alexander Volkanovski UPSET	Movsar Evloev	KO/TKO R2
Colby Thicknesse UPSET	Asaf Chopurov	Decision
Dominick Reyes UPSET	Azamat Murzakanov	KO/TKO R1
Petr Yan UPSET	Merab Dvalishvili	Decision
Alexander Volkov	Rizvan Kuniev	Decision
Grant Dawson	Nurullo Aliev	Decision
Daniel Santos UPSET	Bolaji Oki	Decision
Abus Magomedov	Cam Rowston	Submission R1
Kody Steele	Noah Gugnon	KO/TKO R1
Abubakar Vagaev	Jacob Malkoun	Decision
Iasmin Lucindo	Nicolle Caliari	Decision
Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev	Nikita Krylov	KO/TKO R1
Aaron Pico	Losene Keita	KO/TKO R1
Lone'er Kavanagh	Ramazan Temirov	KO/TKO R1

Results from UFC Stats; odds quoted in the article are the closing Polymarket prices before the card.

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Alexander Volkov Defeats Rizvan Kuniev at UFC 333, Calls for Title Shot

Alexander Volkov earned a unanimous decision victory over Rizvan Kuniev at UFC 333, held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 24, 2026. Following his win, Volkov publicly called for a shot at the UFC Heavyweight Championship.

The heavyweight contest saw Volkov control the action, ultimately securing the win with judges' scores of 29-28, 30-27, and 30-27. Throughout the three-round bout, Volkov effectively utilized his significant reach advantage, working at range with a consistent jab and various kicks. In the third round, he intensified his attack, attempting rear-naked chokes. After the official decision was announced, Volkov addressed UFC President Dana White, expressing his desire for a heavyweight title shot, according to Yahoo Sports.

Volkov's Ascent in the Heavyweight Division

Alexander Volkov, standing at 6 feet 7 inches with an 80-inch reach, entered this fight as the official UFC Heavyweight #2 contender. Before this contest, the orthodox fighter had compiled a UFC record of 14 wins and 5 losses across 19 UFC fights. He was on a one-fight UFC win streak, having last competed in May 2026 at UFC 328: Chimaev vs. Strickland, where he defeated Waldo Cortes Acosta by unanimous decision. In that bout, the pre-fight market had Volkov at a 56% chance to win. Prior to that, in October 2025 at UFC 321: Aspinall vs. Gane, he secured a split decision victory over Jailton Almeida. His only loss in his last five outings before this fight came in December 2024 at UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura, where he dropped a split decision to Ciryl Gane. Volkov, who was 37 years old at his last fight before facing Kuniev, has demonstrated solid defensive grappling, boasting a 77% takedown defense rate before this fight, alongside an average of 0.6 takedowns per fight with 61% accuracy.

Kuniev's Journey to the Top 10

Rizvan Kuniev, 34 years old at his last fight before UFC 333, came into this bout as the official UFC Heavyweight #7 contender. The 6-foot-4-inch orthodox fighter, with a 76-inch reach, held a UFC record of 2 wins and 1 loss over 3 UFC fights before this event. He was also on a one-fight UFC win streak, having most recently fought in July 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Guskov, where he defeated Tyrell Fortune by KO/TKO in the third round. The pre-fight market for that contest had Kuniev as a significant favorite, with a 97% chance to win. In February 2026, at UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira, Kuniev secured a unanimous decision victory over Jailton Almeida, a fight where the pre-fight market had him at a 38% chance to win. His sole UFC loss before facing Volkov was a split decision to Curtis Blaydes in June 2025 at UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree Jr. Kuniev's takedown defense before this fight stood at an impressive 93%, though he had not recorded any takedowns per fight in his UFC career prior to this contest.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Alexander Volkov	14-5-0	Heavyweight #2
Rizvan Kuniev	2-1-0	Heavyweight #7

UFC records count UFC fights only. Records and rankings from UFC Stats and ufc.com.

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Flyweight's Enduring Presence: Analyzing Longest UFC Careers

Kyoji Horiguchi leads the Flyweight division in career longevity, a statistic that measures the time elapsed since a fighter's first UFC bout. This analysis focuses on fighters who have competed in the UFC within the last two years, have at least three UFC fights, and are currently listed in the Flyweight division. Out of 137 fighters on record in this group, 43 qualified for this specific measure, showcasing the sustained presence required to make this list.

The Enduring Leader: Kyoji Horiguchi

Topping the list is Kyoji Horiguchi, with an impressive 13.0 years since his UFC debut. This substantial tenure highlights a career that has spanned over a decade in the organization. Horiguchi holds a UFC record of 9-2 across 11 fights. His last fight was on 20 Jun 2026, and he is currently booked to face Asu Almabayev on 2026-11-21, demonstrating continued activity at 36 years of age. His lead of nearly three years over the next closest fighter underscores a remarkable period of sustained relevance in the sport.

Consistent Contenders: Moreno and Pantoja

Following Horiguchi are Brandon Moreno and Alexandre Pantoja, both with extensive careers. Brandon Moreno sits at 10.1 years of tenure, having compiled a UFC record of 12-7 across 19 fights. His last fight was on 12 Sep 2026, and he is booked to fight Charles Johnson on 2026-12-12, indicating his ongoing presence at 33 years old. Alexandre Pantoja is close behind with 9.7 years, holding a UFC record of 14-5 from 19 fights. Pantoja, at 36 years old, last fought on 19 Sep 2026. Both Moreno and Pantoja have maintained high activity levels throughout their careers, as evidenced by their identical fight counts of 19 UFC bouts, which is the highest on this leaderboard.

Veteran Presence with Varied Profiles

Joseph Morales occupies the fourth spot with 9.2 years of tenure. His profile is notable for his longevity combined with a more modest fight count and record: 3-3 across 6 UFC fights. Morales, aged 32, last competed on 12 Sep 2026. This demonstrates that sustained presence on the roster can come with different levels of activity and win-loss ratios. Alex Perez follows with 8.9 years, holding an 8-7 UFC record from 15 fights. Perez, 35, last fought on 29 Aug 2026, showcasing a consistent, albeit challenging, run in the division.

Rounding Out the Top Ten

The remainder of the top ten features fighters who have also demonstrated significant staying power in the UFC Flyweight division. Sumudaerji and Kai Kara-France are closely grouped, both with 7.9 years of tenure. Sumudaerji has a 7-4 record from 11 fights and last fought on 29 Aug 2026 at age 31. Kai Kara-France holds an 8-5 record from 13 fights, with his last bout on 28 Jun 2025 at age 34. Ode Osbourne has been in the UFC for 6.8 years, with a 5-7 record from 12 fights. Osbourne, 35, last fought on 09 Aug 2025 and is booked for 2026-10-31. Bruno Silva has 6.6 years of tenure, a 5-6 record from 11 fights, and last competed on 06 Jun 2026 at age 37. Finally, Brandon Royval rounds out the top ten with 6.4 years, an 8-5 record from 13 fights, and his last fight on 11 Jul 2026 at age 34.

This leaderboard highlights the dedication and resilience required to maintain a presence in the UFC's Flyweight division over many years. While this statistic measures endurance, a fighter's activity level and win-loss record within that timeframe also contribute to their overall profile.

Flyweight — longest ufc careers

Fighter	In the UFC	UFC fights
1. Kyoji Horiguchi	13.0 years	11 fights
2. Brandon Moreno	10.1 years	19 fights
3. Alexandre Pantoja	9.7 years	19 fights
4. Joseph Morales	9.2 years	6 fights
5. Alex Perez	8.9 years	15 fights
6. Sumudaerji	7.9 years	11 fights
7. Kai Kara-France	7.9 years	13 fights
8. Ode Osbourne	6.8 years	12 fights
9. Bruno Silva	6.6 years	11 fights
10. Brandon Royval	6.4 years	13 fights

Career statistics from UFC Stats; Elo is bjjmetrics' own rating from UFC results. Updated twice a day.

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Elite Black Belts Fellipe Andrew, Ffion Davies, Funegra Enter Fall IBJJF Opens

Fellipe Andrew Leandro Silva is set to bring his formidable talent to the Orange County Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026, entering the highly competitive Black / Adult / Male / Heavy division. His entry marks a significant return to IBJJF competition for the elite black belt, rated at an impressive 1815 Elo and ranked #41 globally. Andrew, representing Del Mar Jiu Jitsu Club, boasts an incredible 95 career gold medals and 123 total medals, a testament to his consistent dominance on the mats. Known for his dynamic guard game and a vicious submission attacking style, Andrew is a multiple-time IBJJF gold medalist, with World Championship titles in both absolute and weight divisions, as well as numerous European and Pan American championships. His presence in Costa Mesa is sure to electrify the Heavy division, as he looks to reassert his position among the sport's top competitors following a period of absence from IBJJF events.

Orange County Open Welcomes Another Elite Talent

Joining Andrew at the Orange County Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026 is Ashlee Funegra, who will compete in the Black / Adult / Female / Feather division. Funegra, an American black belt from the renowned AOJ academy, holds an Elo rating of 1556 and is ranked #164. Despite being a relatively recent black belt promotion in May 2025, she has quickly amassed an impressive record of 39 career gold medals and 68 total medals. Funegra is a product of the highly successful AOJ Kids program, where she, alongside her twin sister Mia, developed a technically precise game. Her recent achievements include significant victories at the IBJJF World No-Gi Championship in 2025, the European Championship in 2026, and the Asian Championship in 2025, demonstrating her rapid ascent through the black belt ranks. Funegra is particularly recognized for her strong top game and effective passing, making her a formidable opponent in any bracket. While both Andrew and Funegra will be competing at the same event in Costa Mesa, their distinct divisions mean fans will follow their individual journeys through their respective brackets.

Ffion Davies Heads to Paris for Fall International Open

Across the Atlantic, Welsh sensation Ffion Eira Davies has officially entered the Paris Fall International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026, where she will compete in the Black / Adult / Female / Light division. Davies, rated 1669 Elo and ranked #81, represents Arma and brings a wealth of experience and an impressive medal haul to the French capital, with 33 career gold medals and 39 total medals. A multiple IBJJF World Champion, including a double gold performance at the 2023 No-Gi World Championship, Davies is celebrated for her unique blend of a strong judo background and a submission-first philosophy. She holds the distinction of being the first European competitor to win the Brazilian Nationals and the lightest athlete ever to claim the IBJJF European absolute title. Davies has often expressed a preference for gi jiu-jitsu, valuing the technical depth and strategic opportunities it offers over the strength-focused aspects sometimes seen in no-gi. Her entry into the Paris Open promises to be a highlight, as she continues to showcase her exceptional skill set and tactical prowess in one of Europe's premier IBJJF events.

Anticipation Builds for Upcoming IBJJF Action

The entries of Fellipe Andrew, Ashlee Funegra, and Ffion Eira Davies into these upcoming IBJJF International Open championships underscore the continued vibrancy and competitive depth of the black belt divisions. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing Andrew's powerful return to the mats in Costa Mesa, Funegra's continued rise as a top-tier competitor in her featherweight division, and Davies' technical mastery on display in Paris. Each athlete brings a unique style and an impressive track record, setting the stage for thrilling matchups and memorable performances as the fall competition season unfolds.

Entry list — elite black belts

Athlete	Event	Division
Fellipe Silva	Orange County Fall	Heavy
Ffion Eira Davies	Paris Fall	Light
Ashlee Funegra	Orange County Fall	Feather

Elo and career medal counts from bjjmetrics. Entries are IBJJF black belt adult divisions only.

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Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2026: Olympic & World Medalists Converge

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2026 is set to commence on 29 October 2026, bringing together 402 athletes from 60 countries. As of 22 October 2026, 22 of these judoka rank within the active top 100 on our Elo rating system, promising a high level of competition across all weight categories. With entries still subject to change and the draw yet to be made, the anticipation builds for this significant event on the international judo calendar.

Men's Categories

-60 kg: This category sees 29 entrants, with four athletes in our active top 100. Leading the charge is Balabay Aghayev of Azerbaijan, ranked #65 on our Elo. Born in 1999, Aghayev, who favors Osaekomi-waza, has accumulated an impressive six Grand Slam gold medals, one silver, and three bronze, alongside a continental championships silver and a World Masters bronze from 2022. He is coached by Farhad MAMMADOV. Aghayev also secured a silver medal at the 2024 European Judo Championships and a gold at the 2021 Islamic Solidarity Games. Kazakhstan's Yeldos Smetov, our #86, is a reigning Olympic champion from 2024, having also earned Olympic silver in 2016 and bronze in 2021. Smetov, born in 1993, is known for his Uchi-mata and is coached by Mr.JILGILDIYEV Galymzhan. He also holds a 2015 World Championships gold. France's Romain Valadier Picard, our #95, is the reigning World Championships silver medalist from 2025. Born in 2003, Valadier Picard employs Sumi-Otoshi from a right-handed stance and has one Grand Slam gold medal.

-66 kg: With 33 athletes entered, this category features France's Walide Khyar as the highest-rated entrant at #93 on our Elo. Khyar, born in 1996, utilizes Uchi-mata from a right-handed stance and is coached by LE BLOUCH. His senior medal haul includes a 2023 World Championships bronze, a 2022 World Masters bronze, one Grand Slam gold, two silver, and five bronze medals, in addition to a continental championships gold. Iago Abuladze of Russia, our #149, is a 2021 World Champion and has one Grand Slam gold, two silver, and four bronze medals. Ruslan Pashayev of Azerbaijan, our #173, has one Grand Slam gold and two bronze medals.

-73 kg: The largest men's category with 41 entrants, this division is topped by Akil Gjakova of Kosovo, our Elo #115. Gjakova, born in 1996, prefers Ouchi-gari from a right-handed stance and is coached by DRITON KUKA. He has one Grand Slam gold, three silver, and one bronze, along with two continental championships gold medals. Gjakova was also a gold medalist at the 2018 Mediterranean Games and the 2021 European Judo Championships. Joan-Benjamin Gaba of France, our #141, is the reigning World Champion from 2025 and a 2024 Olympic silver medalist. Makhmadbek Makhmadbekov, representing UAE and ranked #160, is the reigning World Championships silver medalist from 2026, also holding a 2025 World Championships bronze and two Grand Slam gold medals.

-81 kg: Among the 38 entrants, Turkey's Vedat Albayrak is the highest-rated at #88 on our Elo. Albayrak, born in 1994, is known for his Uchi-mata-sukashi from a right-handed stance and is coached by Irakli UZNADZE. His extensive medal collection includes a 2018 World Championships bronze, two World Masters bronze medals, five Grand Slam gold, four silver, and two bronze, plus two continental championships gold. Omar Rajabli of Azerbaijan, our #211, is the reigning World Championships bronze medalist from 2026. Rajabli, born in 2004, uses Uchi-mata and has one Grand Slam gold, one silver, and two bronze medals. Arnaud Aregba of France, our #243, is also entered.

-90 kg: This category features 35 entrants, with four in our active top 100. Italy's Christian Parlati, our Elo #56, leads the group. Born in 1998, Parlati favors Yama-arashi from a left-handed stance and is coached by Giuseppe Maddaloni. He earned a 2022 World Championships silver, one Grand Slam gold, two silver, and three bronze, plus a continental championships gold. Davlat Bobonov of Uzbekistan, our #61, is a 2022 World Champion and a 2021 Olympic bronze medalist. He has two Grand Slam gold medals and a 2023 World Masters bronze. Ivaylo Ivanov of Bulgaria, our #83, has one Grand Slam gold, five silver, and three bronze medals, along with a 2021 World Masters bronze.

-100 kg: With 37 entrants, this division is headed by Michael Korrel of the Netherlands, our Elo #82. Korrel, born in 1994, employs Uchi-mata and is coached by Theo Meijer. He has two World Championships bronze medals (2019, 2022), a 2019 World Masters gold, and five Grand Slam gold medals. Jorge Fonseca of Portugal, our Elo 1329, is a two-time World Champion (2019, 2021) and a 2021 Olympic bronze medalist. Fonseca, born in 1993, is known for his Osoto-gari. Dzhafar Kostoev, representing UAE and ranked #219, has two Grand Slam gold medals and three continental championships silver medals.

+100 kg: The heavyweight category has 26 entrants. Jelle Snippe of the Netherlands, our Elo 1246, is the highest-rated. Born in 1999, Snippe uses Uchi-mata-sukashi and is coached by Edwin Steringa. He has one Grand Slam gold, one silver, and three bronze medals, in addition to a continental championships bronze. Denis Batchaev of Russia, our #264, born in 2005, has one Grand Slam gold and three bronze medals. Kayhan Ozcicek-Takagi of Australia, our #283, holds one continental championships gold and one bronze medal.

Women's Categories

-48 kg: This category features 22 entrants. Marina Vorobeva of Russia, our Elo #129, leads the field. Born in 2002, Vorobeva's favorite technique is Uchi-mata from a left-handed stance. She has one Grand Slam gold, one silver, and one bronze medal, plus a continental championships bronze. Kristina Dudina of Russia, our #233, born in 2005, is a 2024 European champion. Dudina, who uses Tai-Otoshi from a left-handed stance, has one Grand Slam silver and two bronze medals. Merve Azak of Turkey, our #362, is also entered.

-52 kg: Among the 28 entrants, two are in our active top 100. Amandine Buchard of France, our Elo #4, is one of the highest-rated active seniors in judo. Born in 1996, Buchard, who prefers Kata-guruma from a right-handed stance, is coached by MOUETTE. Her impressive record includes a 2021 Olympic silver and a 2024 Olympic bronze, five World Championships bronze medals, two World Masters gold, and nine Grand Slam gold medals. Diyora Keldiyorova of Uzbekistan, our #20, is the reigning Olympic champion from 2024 and a two-time World Championships silver medalist (2023, 2024). Keldiyorova, born in 1999, is the first Uzbek woman to win an Olympic judo gold. Reka Pupp of Hungary, our #127, has three Grand Slam gold medals and a 2022 World Masters bronze.

-57 kg: This category has 23 entrants, with one in our active top 100. Mimi Huh of South Korea, our Elo #30, is the reigning World Champion from 2024 and a 2024 Olympic silver medalist. Born in 2003, Huh, who employs Uchi-mata from a left-handed stance, also has three Grand Slam gold medals. Chelsie Giles of Great Britain, our #101, is a 2021 Olympic bronze medalist and a 2022 World Championships silver medalist. Giles, born in 1997, is known for her Uchi-mata and has two Grand Slam gold medals. Martha Fawaz of France, our #133, has one Grand Slam gold, one silver, and two bronze medals.

-63 kg: With 24 entrants, two are in our active top 100. Joanne Van Lieshout of the Netherlands, our Elo #47, is the reigning World Champion from 2024, also holding a 2023 World Championships bronze. Born in 2003, Van Lieshout's favorite technique is Uchi-mata-sukashi, and she is coached by Angelique van Wegberg. She has two Grand Slam silver and seven bronze medals. Angelika Szymanska of Poland, our #51, is the reigning World Championships silver medalist from 2024. Szymanska, born in 2000, uses Uchi-mata and has two Grand Slam gold medals. Laura Fazliu of Kosovo, our #147, is a 2024 Olympic bronze medalist and a two-time World Championships bronze medalist (2024, 2025).

-70 kg: This category sees 26 entrants, with three in our active top 100. Lara Cvjetko of Croatia, our Elo #49, is the reigning World Championships silver medalist from 2025, also earning a 2022 World Championships silver. Born in 2002, Cvjetko prefers Seoi-nage and is coached by Dragan Crnov. She has one Grand Slam gold and two World Masters bronze medals. Elisavet Teltsidou of Greece, our #67, has five Grand Slam gold medals and a 2023 World Masters silver. Sanne Van Dijke of the Netherlands, our #89, is a 2021 Olympic bronze medalist and a three-time World Championships bronze medalist (2021, 2022, 2025).

-78 kg: Among the 26 entrants, two are in our active top 100. Patricia Sampaio of Portugal, our Elo #72, is a 2024 Olympic bronze medalist and the reigning World Championships bronze medalist from 2025. Born in 2000, Sampaio employs Tai-Otoshi from a left-handed stance and is coached by Igor Sampaio. She has two Grand Slam gold medals. Yelyzaveta Lytvynenko, representing UAE and ranked #79, is the reigning World Champion from 2026. Lytvynenko, born in 2004, uses Sasae-tsurikomi-ashi from a right-handed stance and has two Grand Slam gold medals. Madeleine Malonga of France, our #159, is a 2021 Olympic silver medalist and a 2019 World Champion.

+78 kg: The heaviest women's category has 14 entrants, with one in our active top 100. Raz Hershko of Israel, our Elo #90, is the reigning World Championships bronze medalist from 2026 and a 2024 Olympic silver medalist. Born in 1999, Hershko, known as 'Hershkules', favors Kata-guruma and is coached by hershko. She has seven Grand Slam gold medals and two continental championships gold medals. Asya Tavano of Italy, our #174, has two Grand Slam gold medals and four continental championships bronze medals. Helena Vukovic of Croatia, our #252, has three Grand Slam bronze medals.

Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2026 -- highest-rated entrant by category

Category	Top entrant	Elo
Men -60	Balabay Aghayev	Elo 1366
Men -66	Walide Khyar	Elo 1340
Men -73	Akil Gjakova	Elo 1318
Men -81	Vedat Albayrak	Elo 1346
Men -90	Christian Parlati	Elo 1370
Men -100	Michael Korrel	Elo 1351
Men +100	Jelle Snippe	Elo 1246
Women -48	Marina Vorobeva	Elo 1308
Women -52	Amandine Buchard	Elo 1592
Women -57	Mimi Huh	Elo 1445
Women -63	Joanne Van Lieshout	Elo 1387
Women -70	Lara Cvjetko	Elo 1382
Women -78	Patricia Sampaio	Elo 1356
Women +78	Raz Hershko	Elo 1345

Entries as of 22 Oct 2026 from the IJF; entries can change. Elo is projudo.xyz's rating from past IJF results, not a forecast. Names link to full profiles on projudo.xyz.

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