Flyweight's Fastest Finishes: A Look at Round One Knockouts and Submissions

In the UFC Flyweight division, Alex Perez leads the pack for most first-round finishes, a statistic that measures wins by knockout or submission in the opening round of a fight. To qualify for this list, a fighter must have at least three UFC fights, a criterion met by 106 out of 138 fighters on record in this weight class. The data groups fighters by their current weight class, ensuring a consistent divisional focus. This metric highlights fighters who demonstrate an ability to end contests decisively and early.

Alex Perez and Alexandre Pantoja: Tied at the Top

Alex Perez and Alexandre Pantoja share the top spot with four first-round finishes each. Perez, with a UFC record of 8-7 across 15 fights, last competed on August 29, 2026, at the age of 35. His ability to secure early stoppages indicates a tendency to start fights aggressively, seeking to capitalize on initial opportunities. Pantoja, who holds a UFC record of 14-5 over 19 fights, last fought on September 19, 2026, at age 37. Pantoja's higher number of overall UFC wins and fights suggests a more extensive career within the promotion, yet he matches Perez's efficiency in securing early finishes. Both fighters have shown a consistent capacity to end bouts before the second round.

The Cluster of Three Finishes

A notable cluster of five fighters follows, each with three first-round finishes. Ben Nguyen, with a UFC record of 4-3 from seven fights, is one such fighter. His last fight was on December 1, 2018, at age 38, indicating a period of inactivity since achieving his three early stoppages. Jafel Filho, who has a UFC record of 3-3 across six fights, last competed on April 25, 2026, at age 34. Filho is currently booked to fight Bruno Silva on December 5, 2026, showing he remains active in the division. Joseph Benavidez, a veteran of the division, also has three first-round finishes. With a UFC record of 15-6 over 21 fights, Benavidez last fought on March 6, 2021, at age 42. His long career and significant number of fights underscore his consistent threat for an early finish during his active years.

Kai Kara-France joins this group with three first-round finishes. His UFC record stands at 8-5 from 13 fights, and he last competed on June 28, 2025, at age 34. Manel Kape also records three first-round finishes. Kape holds a UFC record of 8-3 across 11 fights, last fighting on June 20, 2026, at age 33. He is currently booked to face Joshua Van on January 30, 2027, indicating his continued presence and activity in the division.

Rounding Out the Top Ten

The remainder of the top ten features fighters with two first-round finishes. John Moraga, with a UFC record of 8-6 from 14 fights, last fought on August 25, 2018, at age 43. Dustin Ortiz, who also has two first-round finishes, holds a UFC record of 8-6 from 14 fights and last competed on January 19, 2019, at age 38. Both Moraga and Ortiz represent fighters who were active in the division some years ago, demonstrating an ability to secure early stoppages during their careers.

Rei Tsuruya stands out in this group due to his profile. At age 24, he is the youngest fighter on the leaderboard and has achieved two first-round finishes in just four UFC fights, holding a record of 3-1. His last fight was on August 29, 2026. While his early finishes are notable, it is important to remember that rate statistics derived from a small number of fights can be more susceptible to fluctuation compared to those from longer careers.

Flyweight — most first-round finishes

Fighter	Round one	UFC fights
1. Alex Perez	4 in round one	15 fights
2. Alexandre Pantoja	4 in round one	19 fights
3. Ben Nguyen	3 in round one	7 fights
4. Jafel Filho	3 in round one	6 fights
5. Joseph Benavidez	3 in round one	21 fights
6. Kai Kara-France	3 in round one	13 fights
7. Manel Kape	3 in round one	11 fights
8. John Moraga	2 in round one	14 fights
9. Rei Tsuruya	2 in round one	4 fights
10. Dustin Ortiz	2 in round one	14 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 Isabely Generoso and Simone Pinheiro Enter Major IBJJF Events

Isabely Generoso da Silva Lemos has officially entered the European IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2027, slated for January 13, 2027, at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Odivelas in Odivelas. This announcement immediately signals a high-stakes contest in the Black / Adult / Female / Super-Heavy division, as Generoso, a formidable competitor from GF Team, brings a significant presence to one of jiu-jitsu's most prestigious tournaments.

Generoso enters the European Championship rated at an Elo of 1520, placing her at #192 globally among elite black belts. Her impressive career boasts 24 gold medals and a total of 42 medals, a testament to her consistent performance and dominance on the mats. Her entry into the Super-Heavy division is particularly noteworthy, as this weight class often features some of the sport's most powerful and technically proficient athletes. The European Championship is renowned for drawing top talent from across the globe, making every division a gauntlet. Generoso's participation ensures that the Super-Heavy category will be a focal point for fans eager to witness high-level grappling. Her recent form has seen her maintain a strong competitive edge, consistently challenging for top honors in major tournaments. Her strategic approach and powerful game make her a dangerous opponent for anyone in the bracket, and her presence alone elevates the competitive stakes for the entire division.

Simone Pinheiro Heads to Balneário Camboriú

Further south, Simone de Abreu Pinheiro has confirmed her entry into the Balneário Camboriú International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026, scheduled for November 28, 2026, at the Ginásio Hamilton Linhares Cruz in Balneário Camboriú. Pinheiro, representing CheckMat, will compete in the Black / Adult / Female / Heavy division, bringing her extensive experience and decorated career to the Brazilian stage.

Pinheiro's entry is a significant addition to the Balneário Camboriú Open, an event that consistently attracts a strong contingent of Brazilian and international competitors. She holds an Elo rating of 1510, ranking her at #203 globally. What truly stands out in Pinheiro's resume is her remarkable collection of 59 career gold medals and a staggering total of 88 medals. This level of sustained success speaks volumes about her longevity and consistent excellence in the sport. Her experience in the Heavy division will be a crucial factor, as she navigates a field often populated by powerful and technically diverse athletes. The Balneário Camboriú Open, while perhaps not carrying the same historical weight as the Europeans, is a vital proving ground and a key event in the IBJJF calendar, offering crucial ranking points and opportunities for athletes to test their skills against formidable opponents. Pinheiro's consistent medal haul suggests she remains a top contender, and her presence will undoubtedly inspire intense competition within her division. Her ability to consistently reach the podium, even after numerous years at the black belt level, underscores her strategic depth and physical prowess.

Divisional Impact and Anticipated Challenges

The entries of both Isabely Generoso and Simone Pinheiro underscore the vibrant and competitive landscape of female black belt jiu-jitsu. Generoso's decision to compete at the European Championship in the Super-Heavy division sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling contest. The European circuit is known for its deep talent pools, and Generoso will undoubtedly face a lineup of highly skilled opponents eager to claim one of jiu-jitsu's most coveted titles. Her GF Team affiliation suggests a strong strategic backing, and she will be looking to add another major gold to her already impressive collection.

Similarly, Simone Pinheiro's participation in the Balneário Camboriú Open's Heavy division highlights the continued importance of regional Opens in the IBJJF circuit. These events serve as critical benchmarks for athletes, allowing them to refine their strategies and test their readiness for larger championships. Pinheiro's extensive medal count makes her a perennial threat, and her CheckMat team affiliation is synonymous with high-level competition. She will be a strong favorite, but the nature of the Heavy division means she must be prepared for powerful and determined challengers looking to make their mark against a seasoned veteran.

While these two elite black belts are competing in different events and divisions, their entries collectively signal a period of intense competition across the IBJJF calendar. Fans of jiu-jitsu can look forward to witnessing two of the sport's most accomplished female athletes challenging for gold in their respective weight classes, each bringing a unique blend of skill, experience, and competitive drive to the mats.

Entry list — elite black belts

Athlete	Event	Division
Isabely Lemos	European	Super-Heavy
Simone Pinheiro	Balneário Camboriú	Heavy

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

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Women's Flyweight: Who Faces the Toughest Competition?

In the Women's Flyweight division, Manon Fiorot stands at the top of a unique leaderboard: Highest average opponent Elo. This statistic measures the average skill level of the opponents a fighter has faced throughout their UFC career, based on their individual Elo rating. A higher average Elo indicates that a fighter has consistently been matched against more highly-rated and challenging competition. To qualify for this list, a fighter must have completed at least 5 UFC fights. Our analysis includes 56 qualified fighters out of 85 on record in this group, with fighters grouped by their current weight class.

The Top Contenders

Manon Fiorot leads the pack with an average opponent Elo of 1074. With a UFC record of 8-2 across 10 fights, Fiorot, age 37, has consistently been tested against high-caliber opponents. Her position at the top suggests that her path through the division has been against some of the most skilled fighters, validating her standing within the weight class.

Closely behind is Zhang Weili, who holds an average opponent Elo of 1072. Zhang, also age 37, has a UFC record of 10-3 over 13 fights. The narrow difference between Fiorot and Zhang highlights that both fighters have navigated extremely challenging schedules, facing elite competition throughout their respective careers.

Tied for third place are two prominent names: Valentina Shevchenko and Rose Namajunas, both with an average opponent Elo of 1066. Shevchenko, age 39, boasts an impressive UFC record of 15-3 over 18 fights, indicating a long tenure against top-tier opponents. Namajunas, age 34, has a UFC record of 12-7 across 19 fights, showcasing a similar history of facing demanding competition over a considerable number of bouts. Their shared Elo rating underscores the consistent quality of opposition both have encountered.

Rounding out the top five is Victoria Leonardo with an average opponent Elo of 1064. Leonardo, age 37, has a UFC record of 1-4 from her 5 fights. Her high average opponent Elo despite a losing record and the minimum number of fights to qualify is notable. It suggests that her short UFC run has been against particularly tough competition. It is worth noting that rate statistics derived from a small number of fights can sometimes be more susceptible to noise.

Further Down the List

The top of this leaderboard is tightly clustered, with only a 27-point spread separating the top ten fighters. Alexa Grasso, age 33, sits at number six with an average opponent Elo of 1062, holding a 10-5 record over 15 UFC fights. She is followed by Erin Blanchfield, age 28, at 1060, with an 8-2 record in 10 fights.

Tracy Cortez, age 33, is eighth with an average opponent Elo of 1050, having a 6-3 record in 9 fights. Natalia Silva, age 30, is ninth at 1048, notably holding an undefeated 9-0 record across 9 UFC fights, indicating she has navigated tough opponents without a loss. Finally, Gabriella Fernandes, age 33, completes the top ten with an average opponent Elo of 1047, holding a 3-4 record in 7 fights.

This statistic provides insight into the caliber of competition faced by fighters in the Women's Flyweight division. It highlights those who have consistently stepped into the octagon against highly-rated adversaries. Our Elo calculations are based solely on UFC fights.

Women's Flyweight — highest average opponent elo

Fighter	Opponent Elo	UFC fights
1. Manon Fiorot	1074	10 fights
2. Zhang Weili	1072	13 fights
3. Valentina Shevchenko	1066	18 fights
4. Rose Namajunas	1066	19 fights
5. Victoria Leonardo	1064	5 fights
6. Alexa Grasso	1062	15 fights
7. Erin Blanchfield	1060	10 fights
8. Tracy Cortez	1050	9 fights
9. Natalia Silva	1048	9 fights
10. Gabriella Fernandes	1047	7 fights

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

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Norma Dumont Departs UFC, Considers Boxing and Other MMA Offers

Norma Dumont, a prominent figure in the women's bantamweight division, has announced her departure from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), despite having two fights remaining on her contract. The Brazilian fighter revealed on social media that she requested her release after being informed the promotion would not renew her deal once her existing bouts were completed. Dumont's decision comes as she explores new opportunities in both boxing and other mixed martial arts organizations, expressing a particular interest in the squared circle.

Contractual Details and Departure

Dumont's exit from the UFC, which she announced on social media, marks the end of her tenure with the promotion after 13 octagon appearances. According to reports, Dumont stated that even before her last fight, she had received information that the UFC was unlikely to renew her contract. With two fights still remaining, she opted to seek a release, which was granted.

Future Prospects in Combat Sports

Following her departure, Dumont has openly discussed receiving multiple offers from other combat sports promotions. She indicated that a major boxing promotion has approached her, an opportunity she finds particularly appealing. "I have to admit that I'm leaning a little more toward boxing," Dumont stated, as reported by various outlets. Additionally, she confirmed an offer from another MMA organization that includes a title fight, noting that both options are financially worthwhile. Dumont plans to compete again in 2027, though she has not disclosed specific details about her next move.

Dumont's UFC Career Overview

Norma Dumont, who was 35 years old at the time of her last fight, compiled a UFC record of 9-4-0 across her 13 fights with the promotion. She held the official UFC ranking of Women's Bantamweight #4. Her most recent outing in the octagon was in September 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Rosas Jr. vs. Barcelos, where she lost to Ailin Perez by unanimous decision. Pre-fight market analysis had given Dumont a 39% chance to win that bout. This followed another unanimous decision loss in April 2026 against Joselyne Edwards at UFC Fight Night: Sterling vs. Zalal.

Prior to these two losses, Dumont had built a strong winning streak, securing victories over notable opponents. In November 2025, she defeated Ketlen Vieira by split decision at UFC Fight Night: Garcia vs. Onama. She also earned unanimous decision wins against Irene Aldana in September 2024 at UFC 306: Riyadh Season Noche UFC, and Germaine de Randamie in April 2024 at UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Curtis 2. Throughout her UFC career, Dumont demonstrated solid defensive grappling, maintaining an 83% takedown defense rate before her last fight. She also averaged 1.4 takedowns per fight with 59% accuracy.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Norma Dumont	9-4-0	Women Bantamweight #4

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

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UFC Rankings Shaken: Kuniev Rises Despite Loss, Walker Storms Heavyweight

Rizvan Kuniev has defied expectations, moving up to the #6 spot in the heavyweight division despite a recent loss, headlining a new set of intriguing UFC rankings updates. This unusual ascent, alongside other significant shifts, paints a dynamic picture across multiple weight classes.

Pound-for-Pound Ponderings

The elite pound-for-pound lists saw some minor adjustments this week. On the men's side, Ciryl Gane drops one spot to #12. Our data indicates no fight on his record within the ranking window, leaving the reason for his descent without an obvious explanation. In the women's pound-for-pound rankings, Raquel Pennington falls from #14 to #15. She did not compete and was consequently bumped by Denise Gomes, who herself rises to #14, a move for which our data also shows no recent fight.

Against the Current: Fighters Defy Results

Perhaps the most compelling narratives in this update are the fighters whose rankings moved contrary to their recent fight outcomes. In the heavyweight division, Rizvan Kuniev climbs from #7 to #6, an upward movement despite losing to Alexander Volkov at UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev. Similarly, in the light heavyweight division, Azamat Murzakanov advances from #10 to #9, even after suffering a loss to Dominick Reyes at the same UFC 333 event.

The women's bantamweight division also features two notable 'against the result' movements. Yana Santos moves up from #7 to #6, a rise that occurred despite her loss to Luana Santos at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan. Conversely, Chelsea Chandler drops one spot from #14 to #15, an unexpected decline given her victory over Melissa Croden at UFC Fight Night: Buckley vs. Malott.

Heavyweight Shake-Up: The Johnny Walker Effect

The heavyweight division experienced a significant reshuffle, largely driven by the explosive entry of Johnny Walker. Walker makes a dramatic debut in the rankings, entering at #7 after a decisive head-to-head victory over Waldo Cortes Acosta at UFC Fight Night: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker. This win sent Cortes Acosta tumbling two spots from #6 to #8.

Walker's arrival created a ripple effect, bumping numerous established heavyweights down the ladder. Derrick Lewis falls two places to #14, while Ante Delija (to #11), Serghei Spivac (to #10), Vitor Petrino (to #9), Valter Walker (to #12), Tyrell Fortune (to #13), and Aleksandar Rakić (to #15) each drop one spot. The impact was so profound that Mario Pinto was bumped out of the rankings entirely, dropping from #15 to unranked.

Lightweight and Welterweight Shifts

In the lightweight division, Tom Nolan makes a move up to #12 after a head-to-head victory over Renato Moicano at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan, which sees Moicano drop to #13. Grant Dawson also makes a new entry into the rankings at #15, following his unanimous decision win over Nurullo Aliev at UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev. Beneil Dariush was bumped out of the #15 spot as a result of Nolan's ascent.

The welterweight division sees Uroš Medić climb to #11. This rise, for which our data shows no recent fight, bumped both Kamaru Usman (to #10) and Yaroslav Amosov (to #12) down one position each.

Women's Divisions See Movement

The women's bantamweight division features Joselyne Edwards making a significant leap from #2 to #1, a move for which our data provides no immediate fight-related explanation. Karol Rosa also moves up to #9, bumping Raquel Pennington (to #7) and Macy Chiasson (to #10) down. Alice Pereira enters the rankings at #14 after a TKO victory over Daria Zhelezniakova at UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Duncan.

In women's strawweight, Fatima Kline rises to #6 without an obvious fight on record. Amanda Lemos also moves up to #11, bumping Angela Hill (to #15), Yan Xiaonan (to #7), and Jéssica Andrade (to #12) down one spot each. Piera Rodriguez is a new entry at #14, securing her spot with a unanimous decision win over Talita Alencar at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Nolan. Mizuki was bumped out of the rankings at #15.

Flyweight Adjustments

The flyweight division welcomes Charles Johnson as a new entry at #14. This move, for which our data shows no recent fight, bumped Tagir Ulanbekov down to #15 and saw Alex Perez drop out of the rankings entirely. Sumudaerji also moves up one spot to #12, a change without an obvious fight on record.

These latest UFC rankings provide plenty of talking points, particularly the intriguing cases of fighters moving against their recent results and the significant impact of new entries like Johnny Walker.

Every change in this update

Division	Fighter	Move
Men's Pound-for-Pound	Ciryl Gane	▼ 11 → 12
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Raquel Pennington	▼ 14 → 15
Women's Pound-for-Pound	Denise Gomes	▲ 15 → 14
Heavyweight	Derrick Lewis	▼ 12 → 14
Heavyweight	Waldo Cortes Acosta	▼ 6 → 8
Light Heavyweight	Jan Błachowicz	▼ 9 → 11
Women's Bantamweight	Raquel Pennington	▼ 5 → 7
Featherweight	Arnold Allen	▲ 7 → 6
Featherweight	Yair Rodriguez	▼ 6 → 7
Flyweight	Tagir Ulanbekov	▼ 14 → 15
Flyweight	Sumudaerji	▲ 13 → 12
Heavyweight	Ante Delija	▼ 10 → 11
Heavyweight	Serghei Spivac	▼ 9 → 10
Heavyweight	Rizvan Kuniev	▲ 7 → 6
Heavyweight	Vitor Petrino	▼ 8 → 9
Heavyweight	Valter Walker	▼ 11 → 12
Heavyweight	Tyrell Fortune	▼ 12 → 13
Heavyweight	Aleksandar Rakić	▼ 14 → 15
Light Heavyweight	Azamat Murzakanov	▲ 10 → 9
Light Heavyweight	Robert Whittaker	▲ 11 → 10
Lightweight	Tom Nolan	▲ 13 → 12
Lightweight	Renato Moicano	▼ 12 → 13
Welterweight	Kamaru Usman	▼ 9 → 10
Welterweight	Uroš Medić	▲ 12 → 11
Welterweight	Yaroslav Amosov	▼ 11 → 12
Women's Bantamweight	Karol Rosa	▲ 10 → 9
Women's Bantamweight	Yana Santos	▲ 7 → 6
Women's Bantamweight	Joselyne Edwards	▲ 2 → 1
Women's Bantamweight	Chelsea Chandler	▼ 14 → 15
Women's Bantamweight	Alice Pereira	▲ 15 → 14
Women's Bantamweight	Macy Chiasson	▼ 9 → 10
Women's Strawweight	Amanda Lemos	▲ 12 → 11
Women's Strawweight	Angela Hill	▼ 14 → 15
Women's Strawweight	Yan Xiaonan	▼ 6 → 7
Women's Strawweight	Fatima Kline	▲ 7 → 6
Women's Strawweight	Jéssica Andrade	▼ 11 → 12
Flyweight	Charles Johnson	▲ — → 14
Flyweight	Alex Perez	▼ 15 → —
Heavyweight	Mario Pinto	▼ 15 → —
Heavyweight	Johnny Walker	▲ — → 7
Lightweight	Beneil Dariush	▼ 15 → —
Lightweight	Grant Dawson	▲ — → 15
Women's Strawweight	Piera Rodriguez	▲ — → 14
Women's Strawweight	Mizuki	▼ 15 → —

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

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Unbeaten 'Bakal' Abdullaev Tests Mairon Santos' Lightweight Ascent

December 5 is shaping up to be a night of high stakes and explosive matchups, with a particular spotlight on the Lightweight division where undefeated phenom Akbar 'Bakal' Abdullaev makes his highly anticipated UFC debut against the formidable Mairon 'The Legend' Santos. This clash promises fireworks as two aggressive finishers look to solidify their standing in one of the promotion's most competitive weight classes.

Lightweight Firepower: Abdullaev vs. Santos

Akbar Abdullaev, boasting a pristine 14-0 professional record with a staggering 100% finish rate, enters the Octagon as a true force of nature. His record includes 13 knockouts and one submission, showcasing a versatile yet devastating offensive arsenal. Abdullaev earned his UFC contract through Dana White's Contender Series, a testament to his undeniable talent. Facing him is Mairon Santos, an equally dangerous striker with an 18-1 record and an impressive 4-0 run in the UFC. Santos, known for his 'Legend' moniker, has secured nine knockouts in his career, proving his own ability to end fights decisively. Our model, after extensive analysis, slightly favors Akbar Abdullaev in this contest, predicting his relentless pressure and finishing instincts could be the difference-maker against Santos's established UFC experience. The betting market has seen a notable line move towards Abdullaev in the past week, indicating growing confidence in the undefeated newcomer.

Heavyweight Gauntlet: Pinto, Spivac, Tuchalov, Cutelaba, Satybaldiev, Gnizditskiy

The Heavyweight division is set for multiple seismic encounters. Undefeated Portuguese sensation Mario Pinto, with a flawless 13-0 record and a #15 ranking, faces the #9 ranked Moldovan grappler Serghei 'Polar Bear' Spivac. Pinto has finished nine of his thirteen victories, with eight coming by knockout. Spivac, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, holds an 18-7 record and is renowned for his exceptional grappling, boasting the second-highest takedown accuracy in UFC Heavyweight history. This is a classic striker-versus-grappler matchup, and our model sees Serghei Spivac as the clear favorite, believing his wrestling pedigree will neutralize Pinto's striking power. Intriguingly, MODEL DISAGREES WITH THE MARKET: our model favors Spivac more strongly than current odds suggest, positioning him as a potential value pick.

Another compelling Heavyweight bout pits the undefeated Magomed 'Wild' Tuchalov against the veteran Ion 'The Hulk' Cutelaba. Tuchalov, 7-0 with a UFC debut win, brings a Dagestani wrestling background and powerful striking. Cutelaba, with a 20-12-1 record and extensive UFC experience, is known for his aggressive, often wild, striking and Sambo background. This fight promises chaos, and our model gives Magomed Tuchalov a strong edge, citing his undefeated momentum and well-rounded skill set.

Rounding out the Heavyweight action, Uran 'Gorilla' Satybaldiev (9-1) takes on the debuting, undefeated Ivan 'Samurai' Gnizditskiy (7-0). Gnizditskiy enters the UFC with a 100% finish rate, all by knockout or submission. Satybaldiev, a Kyrgyz grappler, will look to test the newcomer's all-around game. Our model favors Satybaldiev's experience against the untested Gnizditskiy, but acknowledges the raw finishing power of the 'Samurai'.

Middleweight and Bantamweight Battles

In the Middleweight division, Modestino 'The Slenderman' Rodrigues (8-1), a Brazilian knockout artist with a perfect finishing record in his wins, meets Matthieu Duclos (11-3), a French former Hexagone MMA champion on a five-fight winning streak. This promises to be a stand-up war between two potent strikers. Our model slightly leans towards Duclos, whose recent UFC experience and championship pedigree could be key. Also at Middleweight, Marco Tulio (14-3) clashes with JunYong 'Iron Turtle' Park (19-7). Park is known for his relentless pressure and record-breaking ground strikes, while Tulio brings a diverse martial arts background. The money went heavily on JunYong Park, shifting the line significantly, reflecting confidence in his grinding style.

The Bantamweight division also features two intriguing matchups. Abdul 'Abba' Hussein (16-2), a Finnish submission specialist and former IMMAF world champion, faces the well-rounded Spaniard Hecher 'Guanche Warrior' Sosa (15-1). Both fighters are coming off UFC debut wins, setting up a pivotal contest. Our model favors Abdul Hussein's submission prowess in this bantamweight showdown. Elsewhere in the division, the undefeated Moldovan Pavel Andrusca (9-0) takes on Mahammadali 'The Ineffable' Osmanli (13-2). Osmanli, an Azerbaijani submission expert, will test Andrusca's perfect record in what could be a grappling chess match.

Flyweight Finishers: Silva vs. Filho

Finally, the Flyweight division delivers a guaranteed barnburner as Bruno 'Bulldog' Silva (15-9-2, 1 NC) takes on Jafel 'Pastor' Filho (17-5). Both Brazilians are known for their finishing abilities, with Silva holding six knockouts and five submissions, and Filho boasting five knockouts and eleven submissions. Filho, an elite submission grappler from Nova União, has a 100% finish rate in his UFC wins. This fight is almost certainly not going the distance, and the betting line has seen a slight move towards Jafel Filho, reflecting public anticipation for his submission-heavy attack.

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Chimaev vs. Covington Headlines RAF Abu Dhabi Championship Night

The desert sands of Abu Dhabi, UAE, will once again become the battleground for elite wrestling as Real American Freestyle (RAF) presents a thrilling card on November 14, 2026. Headlining the event is a Cruiserweight Crossover Championship Match between the reigning champion, Khamzat Chimaev, and the challenger, Colby Covington.

The Main Event: Chimaev vs. Covington

Khamzat Chimaev, representing the UAE at 32 years old, enters this championship bout with a perfect 4-0 RAF record. His journey through RAF has seen him defeat notable opponents such as Dillon Danis, Tyron Woodley, Gilbert Burns, and Robbie Lawler, all in main event or co-main event slots. Chimaev’s wrestling roots run deep, having started at age five in the Chechen Republic, Russia, and later becoming a three-time Swedish national champion in freestyle wrestling. His MMA career in the UFC, where he is a former Middleweight Champion, also showcases his grappling prowess, with UFC wrestling averages of 1.7 takedowns landed per fight at 61% accuracy, stopping 76% of takedown attempts, and maintaining 3.1 minutes of control per fight.

Challenging for the title is the USA's Colby Covington, 38 years old, who also boasts an undefeated 5-0 RAF record. Covington, from Clovis, California, is the inaugural RAF Cruiserweight Crossover Champion, having secured victories over Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, Chris Weidman, Arman Tsarukyan, and Belal Muhammad. His extensive wrestling background includes a 2007 national junior college title with a 34-0 record, two Pac-10 Conference championships, and All-American honors at Oregon State University. He also won a gold medal at the 2013 FILA Grappling no-gi world championships. In his UFC career, Covington averaged 3.7 takedowns landed per fight at 47% accuracy, stopping 40% of takedown attempts, and controlling opponents for 6.4 minutes per fight.

Championship Showdowns

The card features three other championship matches, showcasing some of the best pure wrestlers in the world.

In a Cruiserweight Championship match, current RAF Cruiserweight Champion Kyle Dake, a 35-year-old American from Lansing, New York, will put his 6-0 RAF record on the line. Dake is a legendary figure in wrestling, being a four-time NCAA Division I National Champion, the only one to do so in four different weight classes without a redshirt season. He is also a four-time World Champion and a two-time Olympic bronze medalist. He will face Alp Arslan Begenjov, a 20-year-old from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, who is making his RAF debut.

The Light Heavyweight Championship will see Kyle Snyder, the 30-year-old American from Woodbine, Maryland, defend his title. Snyder, with a 5-0 RAF record, is one of the most decorated wrestlers in history, being the youngest ever to win world, NCAA, and Olympic championships in the same year. He is a two-time NCAA heavyweight champion and an Olympic gold medalist. He famously defeated Abdulrashid Sadulaev at the 2017 World Championships. Snyder will meet Shamil Erdogan, a 36-year-old from Dagestan, Russia, who is making his RAF debut.

For the Middleweight Championship, Kennedy Blades, a 23-year-old American from Chicago, Illinois, brings her perfect 6-0 RAF record to the mat. Blades is the current RAF Women's Middleweight Champion, with four successful title defenses. She is a 2026 NCAA Women's Wrestling Champion, a 2024 Olympic silver medalist, and a 2025 World Championship bronze medalist. She will face Bella Mir, a 23-year-old American from Las Vegas, Nevada, who holds a 1-1 RAF record.

Stacked Crossover and Wrestling Bouts

Beyond the titles, RAF Abu Dhabi offers a compelling lineup of crossover and traditional wrestling matches.

A Catchweight Crossover bout features Arman Tsarukyan, a 30-year-old Armenian, with an 8-1 RAF record, including a victory over Urijah Faber. Tsarukyan, a Master of Sports in wrestling, has a strong MMA background in the UFC, averaging 2.7 takedowns landed per fight at 41% accuracy. He will face Neiman Gracie, a 37-year-old Brazilian, making his RAF debut after a loss at RAF Moscow. Gracie, a fourth-generation member of the famed Gracie family, is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with a professional MMA career in Bellator MMA and PFL.

In a Welterweight Crossover match, Zabit Magomedsharipov, a 35-year-old Russian from Dagestan, makes his RAF debut. A former ACB Featherweight Champion and a four-time Russian Sanda champion, Magomedsharipov had a notable UFC career, averaging 5.2 takedowns landed per fight at 55% accuracy. He will face Giga Chikadze, a 38-year-old Georgian, also making his RAF debut. Chikadze, a former kickboxer, has a UFC record that shows a preference for striking, with an average of 0.2 takedowns landed per fight.

A Light Heavyweight bout pits Abdulrashid Sadulaev, the 30-year-old Russian wrestling phenom with a 1-1 RAF record, against Dauren Kurugliev, a 34-year-old Russian-born Greek wrestler making his RAF debut. Sadulaev, known as the "Russian Tank," is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time World Champion. Kurugliev is a three-time European champion and a 2024 Olympic bronze medalist.

The Lightweight Crossover bout sees Umar Nurmagomedov, a 30-year-old Russian making his RAF debut, against Urijah Faber, a 47-year-old American with an 0-2 RAF record. Nurmagomedov, a combat sambo world champion, has a UFC wrestling average of 3.8 takedowns landed per fight at 50% accuracy. Faber, an NCAA wrestler and UFC Hall of Famer, averaged 1.5 takedowns landed per fight in his UFC career.

Jordan Burroughs, the 38-year-old American wrestling legend, holds a 2-1 RAF record and will compete in a Middleweight bout against Azamat Nurykau, a 36-year-old from Dagestan, Russia, making his RAF debut. Burroughs is a 2012 Olympic gold medalist and six-time World Champion, with two NCAA Division I national championships.

A Catchweight Crossover bout presents a rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Marlon Moraes. Dvalishvili, a 35-year-old Georgian and American, holds a 2-1 RAF record and is the former UFC Bantamweight Champion, known for his record-breaking 7.0 takedowns landed per fight in the UFC. Moraes, a 38-year-old Brazilian making his RAF debut, is a former WSOF Bantamweight Champion. Their previous encounter in the UFC saw Dvalishvili win by TKO.

Other bouts include Zahid Valencia, a 29-year-old American with a 4-1 RAF record and a two-time NCAA Division I national champion, facing Khidir Saipudinov, a 23-year-old Russian-born Bahraini wrestler with an 0-1 RAF record, in a Cruiserweight match. A Middleweight Crossover bout features Diana Avsaragova, a 28-year-old Russian with an 0-1 RAF record, against Julianna Peña, a 37-year-old American making her RAF debut. Avsaragova is a Master of Sports in wrestling, while Peña is a former two-time UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion. Additionally, a Light Heavyweight Crossover match will see Murtaza Talha from Dagestan, Russia, and Osama Elsaidy from Cairo, Egypt, both making their RAF debuts, and a Lightweight bout will feature Hamza Kooheji from Bahrain and Ali AlQaisi from Jordan, both also making their RAF debuts.

RAF ABU DHABI — full card

Weight	Athlete	Athlete
MAIN Cruiserweight Crossover	Khamzat Chimaev	Colby Covington
Cruiserweight	Kyle Dake	Alp Arslan Begenjov
Light Heavyweight	Kyle Snyder	Shamil Erdogan
Middleweight	Kennedy Blades	Bella Mir
Catchweight Crossover	Arman Tsarukyan	Neiman Gracie
Welterweight Crossover	Zabit Magomedsharipov	Giga Chikadze
Light Heavyweight	Abdulrashid Sadulaev	Dauren Kurugliev
Lightweight Crossover	Umar Nurmagomedov	Urijah Faber
Middleweight	Jordan Burroughs	Azamat Nurykau
Light Heavyweight Crossover	Murtaza Talha	Osama Elsaidy
Middleweight Crossover	Diana Avsaragova	Julianna Peña
Light Heavyweight	Osama Elsaidy	Murtaza Talha
Catchweight Crossover	Merab Dvalishvili	Marlon Moraes
Cruiserweight	Zahid Valencia	Khidir Saipudinov
Lightweight	Hamza Kooheji	Ali AlQaisi
Lightweight	Ali AlQaisi	Hamza Kooheji
Middleweight	Julianna Peña	Diana Avsaragova

Card and athlete details from Real American Freestyle. RAF records count bouts on RAF cards only.

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UFC Fight Night: Underdogs Reign as Walker, Schmid Score Major Upsets

UFC Fight Night: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker delivered a night of unexpected outcomes, with underdogs defying the odds across the card. While Johnny Walker’s main event knockout sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division, it was Ollie Schmid’s unanimous decision victory over the heavily favored Keiichiro Nakamura that stood out as the night’s most significant upset, rewriting the script for the featherweight prospect.

Johnny Walker Stuns Waldo Cortes Acosta with Third-Round Knockout

Johnny Walker (9-7-0 -> 10-7-0) delivered a pivotal performance in the main event, knocking out Waldo Cortes Acosta (10-4-0 -> 10-5-0) in the third round at 2:27. Walker, entering the bout as a 2.0-to-1 underdog, faced a Cortes Acosta who was a clear favorite with the bookmakers. The fight, which took place at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, saw Walker secure his second win at heavyweight. This victory not only improved his record but also reset his career trajectory in the division, derailing Cortes Acosta's push towards the top five.

Ollie Schmid Defies Odds in Unanimous Decision Over Keiichiro Nakamura

In what was undeniably the biggest upset of the night, Ollie Schmid (0-1-0 -> 1-1-0) defeated Keiichiro Nakamura (1-0-0 -> 1-1-0) by unanimous decision after three rounds. Schmid entered the cage as a substantial 3.1-to-1 underdog against Nakamura, who was a heavy favorite. The featherweight contest saw Schmid, a taller southpaw, utilize his range and set traps, while Nakamura, an elusive Japanese prospect, employed sharp kicks and unpredictable attacks. The opening round was a tactical kicking battle, with Schmid making better reads with his hands and landing a clean uppercut and left hook combination. Nakamura adjusted in the second, inviting Schmid to throw to counter, but Schmid's kicks, particularly a question mark kick, continued to be effective. The third round saw Nakamura increase his aggression, pressing forward and landing a powerful left hook that dropped Schmid. Nakamura followed with ground strikes, and Schmid lost his mouthguard, appearing close to being finished. However, Schmid showed remarkable resilience, surviving the barrage and using a desperate takedown to interrupt the attack. Despite Nakamura's late-round surge, Schmid's work in the earlier rounds and his ability to withstand the knockdown proved decisive, with all three judges scoring the fight 29-28 in his favor.

Andre Petroski Delivers Knockout Blow to Mantas Kondratavicius

Andre Petroski (8-5-0 -> 9-5-0) pulled off a significant upset in the middleweight division, stopping Mantas Kondratavicius (1-0-0 -> 1-1-0) by knockout due to punches in the second round at 4:39. Petroski was a considerable 2.9-to-1 underdog against Kondratavicius, who was a heavy favorite. Petroski led in several tracked fight-stat categories, securing the TKO victory.

Mitch Raposo Outworks Marcos Degli for Unanimous Decision

Mitch Raposo (2-2-0 -> 3-2-0) secured a unanimous decision victory over Marcos Degli (0-0-0 -> 0-1-0) after three rounds in their flyweight clash. Raposo, a 2.2-to-1 underdog, overcame a favored Degli. Despite Degli taking the first round on all three judges' scorecards, Raposo's consistent pressure and output were key. He increased his significant strike output in the second round, leveling the scores. Even after suffering a cut in the final round, Raposo continued to advance, ultimately earning 29-28 scores from all three judges.

Elijah Smith Dominates Davey Grant with First-Round Knockout

Elijah Smith (3-0-0 -> 4-0-0) made a powerful statement in the bantamweight division, delivering a first-round knockout victory over Davey Grant (9-7-0 -> 9-8-0) just one minute into the fight. Smith, a heavy favorite, clipped Grant with a counter check hook, dropped him with a left hook near the fence, and landed a right hand on the ground to secure the stoppage. This marked the first time in Grant's 13-year UFC career that he had been knocked out. Smith's impressive performance earned him a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus and came on the final fight of his current UFC contract, prompting him to declare himself a free agent after the bout.

Tatiana Suarez Grinds Out Decision Over Virna Jandiroba

Tatiana Suarez (9-1-0 -> 10-1-0) earned a unanimous decision victory over Virna Jandiroba (9-4-0 -> 9-5-0) after three rounds in their women's strawweight bout. Suarez, who was favored in the matchup, utilized her wrestling to control and frustrate Jandiroba throughout the fight. All three judges scored the fight in favor of Suarez, with two judges seeing it 30-27 and one 29-28. This co-main event victory was a crucial step for Suarez, who made her case for a shot at the 115-pound title.

Undercard Delivers Action and More Upsets

The undercard of UFC Fight Night: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker also featured a series of compelling matchups, including another upset as Murtazali Magomedov (1-0-0 -> 2-0-0) defeated the favored Jose Delano (1-0-0 -> 1-1-0) by unanimous decision in a featherweight contest. Jose Souza (1-0-0 -> 2-0-0) secured a first-round knockout victory over Jonny Parsons (1-0-0 -> 1-1-0) in their welterweight bout. Karine Silva (5-3-0 -> 6-3-0), a favorite, earned a unanimous decision win against Gabriella Fernandes (3-3-0 -> 3-4-0) in women's flyweight action. Lucas Fernando (1-0-0 -> 2-0-0), a heavy favorite, defeated Billy Elekana (3-1-0 -> 3-2-0) by unanimous decision in a light heavyweight clash. Austin Bashi (1-2-0 -> 2-2-0), another heavy favorite, submitted Carlos Calderon (0-0-0 -> 0-1-0) with a rear-naked choke in the first round of their featherweight fight. Thomas Petersen (3-4-0 -> 4-4-0) delivered a third-round knockout over Gabriel Lorenco (0-0-0 -> 0-1-0) in a heavyweight bout. Seokhyeon Ko (2-1-0 -> 3-1-0), a heavy favorite, secured a unanimous decision victory against Wellington Turman (3-6-0 -> 3-7-0) in their welterweight matchup. Finally, Nina Milosevic (1-0-0 -> 2-0-0) scored a second-round knockout with elbows against Priscila Cachoeira (5-9-0 -> 5-10-0) in a women's bantamweight contest.

UFC Fight Night: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker — full results

Winner	Defeated	How
Johnny Walker UPSET	Waldo Cortes Acosta	KO/TKO R3
Ollie Schmid UPSET	Keiichiro Nakamura	Decision
Andre Petroski UPSET	Mantas Kondratavicius	KO/TKO R2
Mitch Raposo UPSET	Marcos Degli	Decision
Elijah Smith	Davey Grant	KO/TKO R1
Tatiana Suarez	Virna Jandiroba	Decision
Murtazali Magomedov UPSET	Jose Delano	Decision
Jose Souza	Jonny Parsons	KO/TKO R1
Karine Silva	Gabriella Fernandes	Decision
Lucas Fernando	Billy Elekana	Decision
Austin Bashi	Carlos Calderon	Submission R1
Thomas Petersen	Gabriel Lorenco	KO/TKO R3
Seokhyeon Ko	Wellington Turman	Decision
Nina Milosevic	Priscila Cachoeira	KO/TKO R2

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

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Light Heavyweight: Unpacking the Highest Elo Ratings

Our latest analysis of UFC Light Heavyweight fighters reveals Magomed Ankalaev as the current leader in our proprietary Elo rating system, holding a score of 1194. This Elo rating is a dynamic numerical measure of a fighter's skill, computed exclusively from their UFC results. Every fighter begins at 1000 points, gaining or losing points after each fight, with the magnitude of the change weighted by the opponent's rating. A higher Elo score signifies a stronger performance history against the competition faced.

To qualify for this leaderboard, fighters must have had at least three UFC fights and competed within the last two years. Out of 205 Light Heavyweight fighters on record, 38 met these criteria.

The Top Contenders

Magomed Ankalaev leads the division with an Elo rating of 1194. His UFC record stands at 13-2 across 15 fights, with his last bout on 25 Jul 2026. At 34 years old, Ankalaev's consistent performance against a range of opponents has solidified his position at the top of this metric, reflecting a strong win-loss ratio over a significant number of contests.

Following Ankalaev is Carlos Ulberg, who holds an Elo rating of 1173. Ulberg's UFC record is 10-1 from 11 fights, with his most recent appearance on 11 Apr 2026. At 36 years old, his high rating and impressive win rate, with only one loss, indicate a very strong run of form. The 21-point gap between Ankalaev and Ulberg suggests a clear, though not insurmountable, difference in their accumulated performance scores.

Dominick Reyes occupies the third spot with an Elo rating of 1117. His UFC record is 11-5 over 16 fights, and he last competed on 24 Oct 2026. At 37 years old, Reyes's rating places him firmly in the top tier, despite having more losses than the top two. His score reflects a history of competing at a high level against strong opponents.

Just below Reyes is Paulo Costa, with an Elo rating of 1114. Costa's UFC record is 8-4 from 12 fights, and his last fight was on 11 Apr 2026. At 36 years old, his rating is very close to Reyes's, indicating a similar level of performance according to the Elo system.

Rounding out the top five is Jan Blachowicz, with an Elo rating of 1107. Blachowicz has a UFC record of 12-9 across 21 fights, making him the most experienced fighter in the top 10 by number of UFC bouts. His last fight was on 01 Aug 2026. At 44 years old, his sustained presence in the top five highlights a long career of competitive performances, though it is worth noting that career totals can sometimes favor long-serving fighters who accumulate many results.

The Rest of the Top 10

A cluster of fighters follows the top five, with Elo ratings ranging from 1090 down to 1075. Alonzo Menifield is 6th with 1090 (12-6, 18 fights, last fought 19 Sep 2026, age 39), closely followed by Dustin Jacoby at 7th with 1088 (10-7, 17 fights, last fought 25 Jul 2026, age 39). Azamat Murzakanov is 8th with 1087 (6-2, 8 fights, last fought 24 Oct 2026, age 38).

Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev stands out at 9th with an Elo rating of 1080. His UFC record is an undefeated 4-0 from only 4 fights, with his last bout on 24 Oct 2026. At 26 years old, this is a high rating for a fighter with a limited number of UFC appearances. While impressive, it is worth noting that Elo ratings derived from a small number of fights can be more susceptible to fluctuation due to the limited data points. Finally, Nikita Krylov is 10th with 1075 (12-11, 23 fights, last fought 24 Oct 2026, age 35).

Light Heavyweight — highest elo rating now

Fighter	Elo	UFC fights
1. Magomed Ankalaev	1194	15 fights
2. Carlos Ulberg	1173	11 fights
3. Dominick Reyes	1117	16 fights
4. Paulo Costa	1114	12 fights
5. Jan Blachowicz	1107	21 fights
6. Alonzo Menifield	1090	18 fights
7. Dustin Jacoby	1088	17 fights
8. Azamat Murzakanov	1087	8 fights
9. Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev	1080	4 fights
10. Nikita Krylov	1075	23 fights

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

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Adesanya vs. Magomedov, Garry vs. Amosov Set for UFC Saudi Arabia on December 5

The Ultimate Fighting Championship has officially booked two significant matchups for its upcoming Fight Night event in Saudi Arabia: Israel Adesanya will face Sharabutdin Magomedov in the main event, and Ian Machado Garry will take on Yaroslav Amosov in the co-main event. The event is scheduled to take place on December 5 in Riyadh.

Adesanya Seeks to Reverse Skid Against Magomedov

Former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya (UFC record: 13-6-0) is set to headline the card against Sharabutdin Magomedov. Adesanya, who stands at six feet, four inches tall with an eighty-inch reach and fights with a switch stance, enters this bout looking to snap a four-fight losing streak. His last victory came in April 2023 at UFC 287, where he defeated Alex Pereira by KO/TKO Punch in the second round. Since then, Adesanya has experienced a series of defeats, including a unanimous decision loss to Sean Strickland in September 2023, a submission loss to Dricus Du Plessis in August 2024, and consecutive second-round KO/TKO losses to Nassourdine Imavov in February 2025 and Joe Pyfer in March 2026.

Adesanya's official UFC ranking is #9 in the middleweight division. Our internal Elo rating for him after his last fight was 1113. Throughout his UFC career, Adesanya has demonstrated strong takedown defense, thwarting 73% of attempts against him. His offensive grappling has been minimal, averaging 0.1 takedowns per fight with a 5% accuracy.

Machado Garry Faces Amosov in Welterweight Co-Main

In the co-main event, #1 ranked welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry (UFC record: 10-2-0) will square off against Yaroslav Amosov. Machado Garry, who is six feet, three inches tall with a seventy-four-inch reach and fights from an orthodox stance, is coming off a loss in August 2026 at UFC 330, where he faced Islam Makhachev and lost by unanimous decision in a five-round welterweight title fight. Prior to that title challenge, Machado Garry had secured two consecutive victories, including a unanimous decision win over Belal Muhammad in November 2025 and a unanimous decision win over Carlos Prates in April 2025. He also suffered a unanimous decision loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov in December 2024.

Our UFC Elo rating for Ian Machado Garry after his last fight was 1130. His takedown accuracy in the UFC stands at 44%, averaging 0.9 takedowns per fight, complemented by a solid 79% takedown defense. Yaroslav Amosov, a former Bellator Welterweight Champion, has made a successful transition to the UFC, holding a 2-0 record within the promotion, with both victories coming via submission.

The UFC officially announced these bookings during the UFC Vegas 124 broadcast, according to MMA News. This event marks the promotion's third visit to Riyadh.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Israel Adesanya	13-6-0	Middleweight #9
Ian Machado Garry	10-2-0	Welterweight #1

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

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Stephen Thompson Announces Retirement After UFC 334 Bout

Stephen Thompson, a long-standing presence in the UFC welterweight division, has announced that his upcoming bout at UFC 334 will mark his final appearance in mixed martial arts. The 14-year veteran and former title challenger confirmed to MMA reporter James Lynch of Ozoon that his November 14 fight against Charles Radtke at Madison Square Garden will be his last before retirement.

Thompson, known widely as “Wonderboy,” cited a significant shift in his personal life as the primary reason for his decision to step away from active competition. He became a father to a baby girl in September, an event he noted has changed his perspective. Thompson told Lynch, "It's my last one, brother. And what better place than having it than Madison Square Garden, New York City?"

A Career Defined by Striking and Longevity

Thompson's UFC tenure spans 21 fights, with his UFC record standing at 12-9-0. He made his promotional debut in 2012 and quickly established himself as a unique and dangerous striker in the welterweight division. Over his career, he has faced many of the division's top contenders and champions, earning two shots at the welterweight title.

At 42 years old at his last fight, Thompson has maintained a high level of competition for years. His next booked UFC fight is against Charles Radtke at UFC 334: Gane vs. Hokit, taking place in New York. This event will serve as the backdrop for his farewell.

Recent Octagon Appearances

Thompson enters his final fight following a challenging period in his career. His most recent outing in July 2025 saw him lose to Gabriel Bonfim by split decision at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Teixeira. Prior to that, in October 2024, he suffered a knockout loss to Joaquin Buckley at UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr. His fight before that, in December 2023, ended in a submission loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov via rear-naked choke at UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington. His last victory came in December 2022, when he defeated Kevin Holland by technical knockout at UFC Fight Night: Thompson vs. Holland.

Throughout his career, Thompson has been recognized for his exceptional striking and defensive grappling. He boasts a UFC takedown defense rate of 75% before his last fight, demonstrating his ability to keep fights standing where his striking prowess could shine. Despite his decision to retire from MMA, Thompson indicated to James Lynch that he still feels physically capable of competing and did not entirely rule out the possibility of engaging in other forms of competition, such as freestyle wrestling, in the future once his daughter is older.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Stephen Thompson	12-9-0	unranked

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

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Whittaker-Guskov Heavyweight Clash Leads Feb 6 UFC Card

The UFC has unveiled a compelling lineup of fights set for February 6, 2027, with a surprising heavyweight clash headlining the new bookings. Fans can anticipate explosive action across multiple divisions as established veterans face off against dangerous rising talents.

Heavyweight Intrigue: Guskov Meets Whittaker

Perhaps the most unexpected announcement sees former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker stepping up to heavyweight to face the formidable Bogdan Guskov. Whittaker, known as 'The Reaper,' has long been a staple of the middleweight division, where he once held the undisputed title. While he has recently competed at light heavyweight, his move to the sport's heaviest division against a natural light heavyweight like Guskov adds a fascinating layer to this contest. Whittaker brings a professional record of 28-9-0, built on crisp, technical striking and remarkable durability, backed by black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hapkido, and Karate.

Bogdan 'Czarevitch' Guskov, with an 18-4-1 professional record, is a powerful light heavyweight known for his devastating finishing ability, boasting 15 knockouts and three submissions among his victories, with none of his wins ever going to a decision. Guskov, a Master of Sport in both boxing and MMA, and a brown belt in BJJ, promises to test Whittaker's chin and grappling prowess in a big way. This heavyweight booking, while unusual for both fighters' typical weight classes, guarantees a high-impact affair.

Lightweight Showdown: Salkilld vs. Saint Denis

A high-stakes lightweight battle is set between the surging Australian Quillan Salkilld and France's 'God of War,' Benoit Saint Denis. Salkilld, holding an impressive 13-1-0 professional record with a perfect 6-0-0 in the UFC, has quickly made a name for himself with five Performance of the Night bonuses in his six UFC appearances. A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Salkilld is a finisher with five knockouts and five submissions to his name. He enters this bout on a remarkable four-fight finishing streak, all in the first round.

Benoit Saint Denis, a former French Army Special Forces soldier, brings a relentless, aggressive style to the Octagon, reflected in his 17-4-0 (1 NC) professional record. Ranked #8 in the Meta UFC lightweight rankings, Saint Denis is a submission specialist with 11 victories by tap-out, complemented by six knockouts. With a brown belt in BJJ and a black belt in Judo, his grappling credentials are undeniable. This matchup pits two highly dangerous finishers against each other in a fight that is unlikely to see the judges' scorecards.

Featherweight Firefights

The featherweight division also gets two exciting additions to the February 6 card. First, Australia's Kaan 'Genghis' Ofli (15-4-1) is slated to meet Brazil's Joanderson 'Tubarão' Brito (20-5-1). Ofli, a submission specialist with seven victories by tap-out, has shown resilience throughout his career and is currently on a three-fight win streak. Brito, known for his relentless, finish-hunting pressure, boasts an impressive 85% finish rate, with nine knockouts and eight submissions among his 20 professional wins. His heavy-handed striking and opportunistic submission game make him a constant threat.

In another featherweight clash, Marwan 'Freaky' Rahiki (9-1-0) will face JooSang 'Zombie Jr.' Yoo (9-2-0). Rahiki enters the bout with a perfect finishing record in his nine professional wins, demonstrating significant striking power with 6.69 significant strikes landed per minute. Yoo, a South Korean talent who began his combat sports journey in Taekwondo and boxing, brings a well-rounded game with four knockouts and one submission among his victories. Both fighters will be looking to make a statement in this competitive division.

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UFC Fight Night 293: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker Main Event Details Unveiled

Information regarding the UFC Fight Night 293 main event, featuring Waldo Cortes Acosta and Johnny Walker, has been released, including fight details, stylistic breakdowns, predictions, and betting insights. The heavyweight clash is set to headline the event on November 7, 2026, at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. This main event was arranged on relatively short notice after Sean Brady withdrew from his scheduled welterweight bout against Gabriel Bonfim due to a staph infection in his knee, according to reports from multiple outlets.

The Heavyweight Headliners

Waldo Cortes Acosta, who holds an official UFC ranking of #6 in the heavyweight division, enters this bout with a UFC record of 10 wins and 4 losses. The 34-year-old orthodox fighter stands 6 feet 4 inches tall with a 78-inch reach. Cortes Acosta is looking to rebound from two consecutive unanimous decision losses, first against Alexander Volkov in May 2026, and then against Curtis Blaydes in September 2026. Prior to these setbacks, he secured three consecutive knockout victories in 2025 and January 2026, including a second-round TKO over Derrick Lewis at UFC 324. His takedown defense stands at 84%.

Johnny Walker, also 34 years old and fighting from an orthodox stance, will be making a quick turnaround for this main event. He boasts a UFC record of 9 wins and 7 losses from his 16 UFC fights. Walker, who stands 6 feet 6 inches tall with an 82-inch reach, recently made his heavyweight debut in October 2026 at UFC 332, securing a first-round knockout victory over Mick Parkin. This win came after a split decision loss to Dominick Reyes in April 2026 at light heavyweight. Walker's takedown defense is recorded at 47%.

Fight Breakdowns and Predictions

Outlets have provided detailed analyses of the upcoming matchup. Sherdog highlighted the fight as a "hugely entertaining heavyweight match-up." Yahoo Sports released a breakdown and prediction for the fight. SportsLine MMA expert Daniel Vithlani released his picks and predictions for the event, including the Cortes Acosta vs. Walker main event. Pickswise also offered its best bets for UFC Fight Night 293.

Analyses suggest a stylistic contrast between the two heavyweights. Cortes Acosta is often described as a pressuring boxer with significant knockout power, while Walker is noted for his rangy, unorthodox striking and creative offense. A prediction from one outlet favors Cortes Acosta to win by KO/TKO, suggesting that Walker may struggle with Cortes Acosta's power. Conversely, another breakdown from Before You Bet noted Walker's size, reach, and unpredictable attacks as potential factors for an upset, though it also acknowledged his history of knockout losses and the five-round distance as concerns. Sports Outbreak provided a technical breakdown, examining the striking, footwork, and defensive aspects of both fighters.

Betting Information

Betting information for UFC Fight Night 293 has been released by various sportsbooks. Early betting lines indicate that Waldo Cortes Acosta is favored in the main event. SportsLine reported the betting odds, with Cortes Acosta listed as the favorite. MyBookie also released odds for the event, showing Cortes Acosta as favored against Walker. FanDuel Sportsbook has also made various betting markets available for the bout. The event is scheduled to stream on Paramount+.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Waldo Cortes Acosta	10-4-0	Heavyweight #6
Johnny Walker	9-7-0	unranked

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

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