Pundits Debate Islam Makhachev's GOAT Status and Potential Triple-Champ Run

Recent discussions among mixed martial arts pundits and a UFC Hall of Famer have centered on Islam Makhachev's standing as the greatest of all time (GOAT), his current two-division reign, and the possibility of him pursuing a third UFC title at 185 pounds.

GOAT Debate Ignited

Streamer SNEAKO recently asserted that Islam Makhachev has surpassed Khabib Nurmagomedov in the GOAT conversation. According to MMA Sucka, SNEAKO highlighted Makhachev's achievement of becoming a two-division champion and his greater number of title defenses compared to Nurmagomedov as key factors in his assessment. UFC President Dana White also commented on Makhachev's GOAT status following his record-breaking win streak at UFC 330 in August 2026.

Chasing a Third Title at 185 Pounds

UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has publicly advocated for Islam Makhachev to attempt to become a three-division champion by moving up to the middleweight division. Bisping, speaking on his podcast and reported by outlets like MMA Sucka and Heavy.com, expressed his belief that Makhachev has earned the opportunity to challenge for a third belt at 185 pounds. Bisping cited Alex Pereira's recent move to heavyweight as a precedent for such a high-profile opportunity, stating, “Then moving up to 185 and trying to become the triple champ, I like the sound of that. And if anyone deserves it, it is Islam Makhachev”. This potential move, Bisping suggested, would follow Makhachev successfully defending his welterweight title against the winner of the upcoming interim bout between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales.

Makhachev's Dominant Run

Islam Makhachev, currently ranked as the Men's Pound-for-Pound Champion and the Welterweight champion, boasts an impressive UFC record of 18-1-0. His last fight in August 2026 at UFC 330 saw him defeat Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision in a welterweight contest, where he was favored by the pre-fight market at 75% to win. This victory extended his UFC win streak to 17, building on a streak of 16 wins before that fight. Prior to this, in November 2025, Makhachev secured another unanimous decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, also in the welterweight division. His path to becoming a two-division champion included a submission win via D'Arce Choke against Renato Moicano in the first round at UFC 311 in January 2025, which marked a lightweight title defense. Makhachev, who was 34 years old at his last fight, stands 5' 10" tall with a 70" reach and fights from a Southpaw stance. His grappling prowess is evident in his 2.1 takedowns per fight at 54% accuracy and a strong 77% takedown defense.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Islam Makhachev	18-1-0	Welterweight champion

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

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All Women: Most UFC Wins Leaderboard

Jessica Andrade currently holds the top spot for most UFC wins among all women fighters, a testament to her enduring presence and consistent performance in the octagon. This list measures the total number of victories a fighter has accumulated in their UFC career, providing insight into their longevity and effectiveness within the organization. The data includes 272 qualified fighters, with individuals grouped by their current weight class. It is important to note that career total statistics like this naturally favor fighters who have competed for a longer duration in the UFC.

The Top Contenders

Leading the pack is Jessica Andrade with an impressive 17 wins. Her UFC record stands at 17-13 across 30 UFC fights, indicating a career marked by frequent activity and a willingness to face a wide range of opponents. Andrade, who last fought on August 16, 2025, at age 35, has consistently been a fixture in multiple divisions, demonstrating both durability and a high-volume fighting style that has allowed her to accumulate more victories than any other woman in the UFC.

In second place is Amanda Nunes, with 16 wins. Nunes achieved these victories in a remarkably efficient 18 UFC fights, holding a dominant UFC record of 16-2. Her career, while featuring fewer total bouts than Andrade's, showcases a higher win percentage, reflecting a period of significant championship reign and dominance. Nunes last competed on June 10, 2023, and is booked to fight Kayla Harrison on November 14, 2026, at age 38, indicating a planned return to active competition.

Closely following is Valentina Shevchenko, who has secured 15 wins. Like Nunes, Shevchenko has achieved her wins with high efficiency, boasting a 15-3 UFC record over 18 fights. Her consistent performance and long tenure at the top of her division are evident in these numbers. Shevchenko last fought on November 15, 2025, at age 39, continuing to add to her legacy.

Sharing the fourth and fifth spots with 14 wins each are Gillian Robertson and Angela Hill. Robertson, at age 32, has compiled her 14 wins across 21 UFC fights, holding a 14-7 record. Her last fight was on August 15, 2026, suggesting an active career with potential for more additions to her win tally. Angela Hill, at age 42, also has 14 wins, but achieved them over a significant 30 UFC fights, matching Andrade's total fight count. Her UFC record stands at 14-16. Hill’s profile is particularly notable, as her high number of wins despite a negative overall record underscores extreme longevity and a consistent willingness to compete against top-tier opposition over many years, last fighting on May 30, 2026.

The Rest of the Top 10

The remainder of the top 10 features several familiar names who have consistently performed over extended periods. Raquel Pennington sits at 13 wins, with a 13-6 record over 19 UFC fights, last competing on October 5, 2024, at age 38. A cluster of fighters follows with 12 wins: Rose Namajunas (12-7 record in 19 fights, last fought January 24, 2026, age 34), Mackenzie Dern (12-5 record in 17 fights, last fought August 15, 2026, age 34), and Katlyn Cerminara (12-6 record in 18 fights, last fought October 17, 2026, age 38). Rounding out the top 10 is JJ Aldrich with 11 wins, holding an 11-7 record over 18 UFC fights, last seen in the octagon on September 12, 2026, at age 34.

This leaderboard highlights the dedication, resilience, and consistent performance required to accumulate a high number of victories in the demanding environment of the UFC. The top positions are occupied by fighters who have not only won frequently but have also maintained long and active careers within the organization.

All women — most ufc wins

Fighter	Wins	UFC fights
1. Jessica Andrade	17 wins	30 fights
2. Amanda Nunes	16 wins	18 fights
3. Valentina Shevchenko	15 wins	18 fights
4. Gillian Robertson	14 wins	21 fights
5. Angela Hill	14 wins	30 fights
6. Raquel Pennington	13 wins	19 fights
7. Rose Namajunas	12 wins	19 fights
8. Mackenzie Dern	12 wins	17 fights
9. Katlyn Cerminara	12 wins	18 fights
10. JJ Aldrich	11 wins	18 fights

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

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Conor McGregor Declares Next UFC Bout His Last, Challenges Canelo Alvarez Sales

Conor McGregor has announced that his next appearance in the Ultimate Fighting Championship octagon will mark his final professional fight. The former two-division champion also made comments comparing the potential sales of his farewell bout to those of boxing star Canelo Alvarez, asserting his own drawing power in combat sports.

McGregor took to social media, specifically X, to question the commercial metrics of Alvarez’s recent fight, which saw the Mexican boxer reclaim the WBC super middleweight title against Christian Mbilli. According to reports, McGregor wrote, “How many views did the Canelo fight get? How many in attendance? Gate? Man I outdo ALL of these people in sales. Majorly. EVERY SINGLE ONE. With ease. Maybe even combined. I don't even be trying.” He further indicated his intention to actively promote his final fight to generate record-breaking numbers, stating, “I'm going to actually try to sell the fight for my next one. My final fight. See what numbers I can generate. Keep outdoing my own records.”

McGregor's Recent Octagon History

This announcement follows a period of inactivity and a series of challenging bouts for McGregor. His last fight, UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, saw him face Max Holloway in a welterweight rematch, which he lost by KO/TKO in the first round at one minute and nine seconds. At the time of that fight, McGregor was 37 years old. The pre-fight market had placed his chances of winning against Holloway at 28%.

McGregor’s UFC record stands at 10-5-0 across 15 UFC fights. His recent history in the octagon includes three consecutive losses prior to the Holloway rematch. Before the loss to Holloway, he suffered back-to-back KO/TKO defeats to Dustin Poirier in July 2021 at UFC 264 and in January 2021 at UFC 257, both in the lightweight division. His last victory came in January 2020 at UFC 246, where he defeated Donald Cerrone by KO/TKO punches in 40 seconds of the first round, also at welterweight. Before that, he lost to Khabib Nurmagomedov by submission via rear naked choke in the fourth round of their lightweight title bout at UFC 229 in October 2018.

Currently, no opponent or date has been booked for McGregor's next UFC fight, which he has stated will be his last. His current UFC Elo rating after his last fight is 1117. Throughout his UFC career, he has averaged 0.4 takedowns per fight with a 36% accuracy, while maintaining a takedown defense rate of 60%.

McGregor's declaration sets the stage for what he intends to be a commercially significant conclusion to his professional MMA career, with a focus on surpassing previous sales records.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Conor McGregor	10-5-0	unranked

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

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Miragliotta's Stand-Up Sparks Outcry in Moicano-Nolan Bout

The main event of UFC Vegas 123 on October thirty-first, two thousand twenty-six, saw Tom Nolan defeat Renato Moicano by TKO, but the victory was overshadowed by a controversial stand-up call from referee Dan Miragliotta. The decision, which occurred late in the second round, drew immediate criticism from many within the mixed martial arts community.

The Controversial Call

During the second round of the lightweight bout, Renato Moicano, a veteran with a UFC record of 13-8-0, had secured a dominant position on Tom Nolan, maintaining back control with a body triangle and actively seeking a rear-naked choke. Despite Moicano's control, referee Dan Miragliotta intervened, standing the fighters up. Moments after the restart, Nolan landed a significant knee strike that visibly hurt Moicano, nearly ending the fight before the second round concluded. Nolan, who was twenty-six years old at the time of the fight, ultimately finished the thirty-seven-year-old Moicano with elbows and punches via TKO at one minute and twenty-eight seconds of the third round.

Fighter Reactions

Following the fight, Renato Moicano addressed his performance but notably refrained from blaming the referee for the controversial stand-up. According to MMA Mania, Moicano refused to 'start a war' over the call. Instead, he congratulated Tom Nolan, acknowledging him as a 'beast,' and offered a candid assessment of his own showing. Moicano stated on social media that he had a 'terrible performance,' despite being well-trained, and admitted he couldn't inflict damage from back control because Nolan defended effectively.

Tom Nolan, for his part, clarified his interaction with the referee prior to the stand-up. Nolan stated to MMA Junkie that he was not requesting a stand-up, but rather was alerting Miragliotta to illegal punches to the back of his head from Moicano. Nolan expressed that he was comfortable with potentially losing the round on the ground and had no influence on the referee's decision to separate them, simply following instructions. He issued a statement, as reported by Yahoo Sports, emphasizing that his role is to fight, and he can only control his own actions, not those of the referee.

Analyst and Broadcast Team Commentary

The decision by Dan Miragliotta drew widespread condemnation from analysts and the broadcast team. Former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier was particularly vocal, stating, “I just don't think a ref should take anybody out of mount, ever. Should never take anybody off the back like that. I just don't think you take those type of positions and change it. They're just too dominant.” Other analysts and fighters echoed similar sentiments, with MMA Fighting's live blog calling the stand-up a 'travesty' and 'unacceptable reffing.' Lightweight fighter Joe Solecki went further, calling for an investigation into Miragliotta's performance and suggesting he should lose his job, arguing that back control with a body triangle should not be broken.

Context from Fighter Data

The bout at UFC Vegas 123 pitted two ranked lightweights against each other, with Moicano holding the #12 ranking and Nolan at #14. Before this fight, Moicano had a UFC win streak of one, having secured a submission victory over Chris Duncan in April two thousand twenty-six. His overall UFC record stood at 13-8-0. The pre-fight market had Moicano favored to win at fifty-three percent. Nolan entered the fight on a five-fight UFC win streak, with his most recent victory being a unanimous decision over Fares Ziam in June two thousand twenty-six. His UFC record improved to 6-1-0 with the TKO win over Moicano. Neither fighter currently has a next booked UFC fight on the schedule.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Renato Moicano	13-8-0	Lightweight #12
Tom Nolan	6-1-0	Lightweight #14

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

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Nolan Stops Moicano, Erosa Delivers Emotional KO at UFC Fight Night

Julian Erosa delivered a storybook ending to his professional mixed martial arts career at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan, silencing heavy favorite JeongYeong Lee with a spectacular first-round knockout. The emotional victory was the highlight of a night that saw multiple underdogs defy expectations and deliver thrilling finishes inside the Meta APEX in Las Vegas.

Tom Nolan Claims Main Event Victory Over Renato Moicano

In the night's main event, Australia's Tom Nolan secured the biggest win of his career, defeating former lightweight title challenger Renato Moicano by TKO in the third round. The stoppage came at one minute and twenty-eight seconds of the round, marking a significant step forward for Nolan in the lightweight division.

The fight began with Moicano attempting to impose his grappling, successfully taking Nolan to the mat in the opening round and working for a rear-naked choke. However, Nolan weathered the early storm, demonstrating resilience against the veteran's submission attempts. As the fight progressed, Nolan began to find his rhythm, showcasing his striking and turning the tables on the Brazilian.

The decisive moment arrived in the third round when Nolan unleashed a torrent of ground-and-pound, forcing the referee to intervene and award him the TKO victory. This impressive performance against a perennial contender like Moicano (21-7-1) moves Nolan's professional record to 41-11, signaling his intent to climb the divisional rankings.

Julian Erosa Caps Career with Stunning Upset

In what was announced as his final professional bout, Julian Erosa (9-9-0 before the fight) pulled off the biggest upset of the night, knocking out JeongYeong Lee (2-2-0 before the fight) in the featherweight division. Lee entered the bout as a heavy 78% betting favorite, making Erosa a considerable 3.4-to-1 underdog. The fight, which lasted just one minute and thirty-one seconds into the first round, saw Erosa initially stunned by a powerful overhand right from Lee. However, "Juicy J" quickly recovered and delivered a "humongous right hand" that sent Lee crashing to the canvas, followed by a few decisive follow-up shots to secure the knockout victory. Erosa's remarkable finish earned him a Performance of the Night bonus, providing a memorable conclusion to his career and improving his record to 10-9-0.

Dakota Hope Defies Odds Against Francis Marshall

Another featherweight bout saw Dakota Hope (0-1-0 before the fight) secure his first UFC victory by defeating Francis Marshall (4-3-0 before the fight) via split decision after three rounds. Hope entered the Octagon as a 1.9-to-1 underdog against Marshall, who was favored at 65%. Marshall started strong, landing a nasty calf-kick and securing a takedown in the first round. However, Hope rallied in the second, connecting with a multi-punch combination and maintaining pressure through the final round, ultimately earning the split decision with scorecards of 28-29, 29-28, and 29-28. Hope's record now stands at 1-1-0, while Marshall falls to 4-4-0.

Piera Rodriguez Dominates Talita Alencar

In a women's strawweight contest, Piera Rodriguez (5-2-0 before the fight) earned a unanimous decision victory over Talita Alencar (4-1-0 before the fight) after three rounds, with all three judges scoring the bout 30-27 in her favor. Rodriguez, the betting favorite at 73%, showcased superior striking output throughout the fight. The bout was briefly interrupted by a power outage at the Meta APEX, but both fighters continued to compete, with Rodriguez's consistent offense proving the difference-maker. Her record improves to 6-2-0, while Alencar's drops to 4-2-0.

Undercard Delivers Finishes and Decisions

The undercard featured a mix of exciting finishes and hard-fought decisions. Joe Kropschot (0-0-0 before the fight) made a successful UFC debut, submitting Nick Klein (0-2-0 before the fight) with an inverted triangle armbar in the second round at one minute and twenty-five seconds of their middleweight clash, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. Zach Reese (4-4-0 before the fight) secured a unanimous decision victory over Mickey Gall (6-7-0 before the fight) in a middleweight bout, with scorecards of 29-27 across the board, despite Reese being deducted a point for an accidental eye poke in the first round. Rodrigo Sezinando (0-1-0 before the fight) picked up his first UFC win in the welterweight division, defeating Theodor Berggren (0-1-0 before the fight) by TKO due to a doctor's stoppage at the end of the second round, after a nasty elbow caused a significant cut. Finally, Lucia Szabova (0-0-0 before the fight) made a dominant UFC debut in the women's flyweight division, stopping Tainara Lisboa (2-2-0 before the fight) by TKO with ground strikes in the third round at three minutes and twenty seconds, also earning a Performance of the Night bonus for her impressive performance.

UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan — full results

Winner	Defeated	How
Julian Erosa UPSET	JeongYeong Lee	KO/TKO R1
Dakota Hope UPSET	Francis Marshall	Decision
Piera Rodriguez	Talita Alencar	Decision
Joe Kropschot	Nick Klein	Submission R2
Zach Reese	Mickey Gall	Decision
Rodrigo Sezinando	Theodor Berggren	KO/TKO R2
Lucia Szabova	Tainara Lisboa	KO/TKO R3

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

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UFC's Oldest Active Fighters: Clay Guida Leads the Veteran Ranks

In the dynamic world of mixed martial arts, age is often a central topic of discussion. Our latest analysis from the Kimono Fighter blog focuses on the UFC's oldest active male fighters, with Clay Guida leading the list at 44.9 years old. This statistic measures the current age of fighters who have competed in the UFC within the last two years and have a minimum of three UFC fights on their record. Out of 2401 fighters on record, 521 qualified for this group, providing a clear snapshot of the sport's enduring veterans.

The Top Veterans

Clay Guida, at 44.9 years, stands as the oldest fighter on this list. With an extensive UFC record of 18-19 across 37 fights, Guida has been a consistent presence in the octagon. His last recorded fight was on December 7, 2024, at the age of 45, demonstrating his continued commitment to competition. Guida's profile is marked by a high volume of fights, indicating a long and active career within the promotion.

Following closely is Stipe Miocic, 44.2 years old, with a UFC record of 14-5 from 19 fights. Miocic's record shows a strong winning percentage, distinguishing him as a highly successful veteran. His last fight took place on November 16, 2024, when he was 44 years old. Miocic's career, while having fewer fights than Guida, reflects a high level of performance at an advanced age for the sport.

Vinc Pichel, aged 43.9 years, holds the third spot. His UFC record stands at 7-5 over 12 fights. Pichel's last octagon appearance was on March 29, 2025, at the age of 44. His profile, with fewer total fights compared to Guida and Miocic, indicates a more measured pace of competition while still meeting the criteria for active status.

Sharing the fourth and fifth positions are Stephen Thompson and Jan Blachowicz, both 43.7 years old. Thompson has a UFC record of 12-9 from 21 fights, with his last fight on July 12, 2025, at age 44. He is currently booked to fight Charles Radtke on November 14, 2026. Blachowicz also has a 12-9 UFC record from 21 fights, with his last bout on August 1, 2026, at age 44. The identical age and record for these two fighters at this stage of their careers is a notable point of convergence.

Further Down the List

The list continues with other long-serving fighters. Jim Miller, at 43.2 years, stands out with the highest number of UFC fights on this leaderboard, totaling 46, and the most wins at 28, against 18 losses. His last fight was on May 9, 2026, at age 43, and he is booked to fight Terrance McKinney on November 14, 2026. Miller's career is a testament to longevity and consistent activity. Cub Swanson, 43.0 years old, has a UFC record of 16-10 across 26 fights, last competing on April 11, 2026, at age 43.

Jared Cannonier, 42.6 years, holds an 11-10 UFC record from 21 fights. His last fight was on July 18, 2026, at age 43, and he is booked to fight Ikram Aliskerov on November 21, 2026. Darren Elkins, 42.5 years, has a 19-12 UFC record from 31 fights, with his last appearance on August 8, 2026, at age 42. Rounding out the top ten is Muslim Salikhov, 42.4 years old, with a UFC record of 9-6 from 15 fights, last fighting on September 12, 2026, at age 42.

This leaderboard highlights a group of fighters who have maintained active careers well into their forties, a period when many athletes in combat sports have typically retired. The number of career fights and wins for some of these individuals, such as Jim Miller and Clay Guida, underscores their extensive time within the UFC. It is important to note that career totals, like the number of UFC fights, naturally favor long-serving fighters, which is a characteristic of this particular statistic focusing on longevity.

All men — oldest fighters

Fighter	Age	UFC fights
1. Clay Guida	44.9 years	37 fights
2. Stipe Miocic	44.2 years	19 fights
3. Vinc Pichel	43.9 years	12 fights
4. Stephen Thompson	43.7 years	21 fights
5. Jan Blachowicz	43.7 years	21 fights
6. Jim Miller	43.2 years	46 fights
7. Cub Swanson	43.0 years	26 fights
8. Jared Cannonier	42.6 years	21 fights
9. Darren Elkins	42.5 years	31 fights
10. Muslim Salikhov	42.4 years	15 fights

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

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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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