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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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

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

Volkov's Ascent in the Heavyweight Division

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

Kuniev's Journey to the Top 10

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

By the numbers

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

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

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Jose Aldo Suggests Cutting Undefeated Movsar Evloev After First Loss

Former UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo recently ignited debate by suggesting that undefeated contender Movsar Evloev should be cut from the Ultimate Fighting Championship roster if he ever suffers a loss. Aldo's comments, made to MMAFighting.com's Guilherme Cruz, centered on the entertainment value and marketability of fighters within the promotion.

Aldo's Rationale for Roster Cuts

Aldo, a revered figure in the sport, argued that the UFC operates as both a ranking system and an entertainment business. He emphasized that a fighter's position in the rankings should not be the sole determinant for opportunities, especially title shots. According to Aldo, Evloev, despite his top ranking, does not generate sufficient fan interest. "I'd wait for him to lose for the first time and then cut him because he's a guy who doesn't sell, a guy who puts on boring fights, a guy who doesn't draw attention, who just stays inactive," Aldo stated, explaining his perspective on why he would remove Evloev from the roster if he were in a position of authority.

Evloev's Undefeated Streak and Style

Movsar Evloev currently holds an unblemished UFC record of 10-0-0, making him one of the most dominant fighters in the featherweight division. His consistent winning streak has propelled him to the official UFC ranking of #1 in the featherweight division. Evloev, who was thirty-two years old at his last fight, has secured all ten of his UFC victories by decision, a fact that appears to be central to Aldo's criticism regarding his fighting style. His last win, a majority decision over Lerone Murphy, occurred in March 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Evloev vs. Murphy, where pre-fight market odds favored him at sixty-nine percent to win.

A Look at Evloev's Dominance and Upcoming Challenge

Evloev's path to the top of the featherweight rankings has been marked by a series of impressive decision victories against high-caliber opponents. Before his last fight, he was on a nine-fight UFC win streak. In December 2024, he defeated Aljamain Sterling by unanimous decision at UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura. Prior to that, he secured a unanimous decision win against Arnold Allen in January 2024 at UFC 297: Strickland vs. Du Plessis. Other notable decision victories include a unanimous decision over Diego Lopes in May 2023 at UFC 288: Sterling vs. Cejudo and a unanimous decision win against Dan Ige in June 2022 at UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Rozenstruik. His wrestling prowess is evident in his statistics, averaging 4.7 takedowns per fight with a fifty-seven percent accuracy, complemented by a robust seventy-four percent takedown defense. His Kimono Fighter Elo rating after his last fight stands at 1128.

Evloev is now set to face his biggest challenge yet, a championship bout against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 333: Volkanovski vs. Evloev.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Movsar Evloev	10-0-0	Featherweight #1

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

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Yan and Dvalishvili Set for Bantamweight Trilogy at UFC 333

The bantamweight division is set for a pivotal clash as Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili prepare to complete their trilogy at UFC 333 on October twenty-fourth, two thousand twenty-six.

Trilogy History and Fighter Reactions

The rivalry between Yan and Dvalishvili stands at one win apiece. Dvalishvili secured the first victory via unanimous decision in March two thousand twenty-three. Yan then evened the score at UFC 323 in December two thousand twenty-five, defeating Dvalishvili by unanimous decision in a five-round contest to regain the title.

The upcoming trilogy has drawn significant attention, including comments from fellow bantamweight contender Sean O'Malley. O'Malley has openly expressed his support for Petr Yan in the upcoming bout, stating that a Yan victory would position him back in the title picture. According to CBS Sports, O'Malley also suggested that Yan's performance in their second fight may have 'broken' Dvalishvili. Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski also weighed in, picking Yan to win, citing Yan's dominant performance in their last fight.

Merab Dvalishvili, for his part, has indicated he is ready for the challenge. In an interview with Din Thomas, Dvalishvili stated, "I have tools I haven't shown" for the trilogy bout.

Tactical Previews and Fighter Data

Analysis leading into UFC 333 suggests that Petr Yan's success will hinge on maintaining the tactics that proved effective in their second fight. MMA Sucka highlighted the importance of Yan countering Dvalishvili's relentless pressure, effectively trapping his lead hand, landing body shots, and utilizing intercepting sidekicks to control distance and disrupt takedown attempts. In their last fight, Yan successfully defended twenty-seven of Dvalishvili's twenty-nine takedown attempts, demonstrating his strong takedown defense.

Petr Yan enters UFC 333 as the reigning Bantamweight champion and is ranked fourth in the Men's Pound-for-Pound rankings. His UFC record stands at 12-4-0. Before his victory over Dvalishvili at UFC 323, Yan was on a three-fight UFC win streak. His takedown defense is an impressive eighty-six percent.

Merab Dvalishvili, ranked as the number one contender in the bantamweight division and ninth in the Men's Pound-for-Pound rankings, holds a UFC record of 14-3-0. Prior to his loss to Yan in December two thousand twenty-five, Dvalishvili was on an extensive fourteen-fight UFC win streak. Known for his grappling prowess, Dvalishvili averages 7.3 takedowns per fight with a forty-three percent accuracy.

The bantamweight championship bout between Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333 is scheduled for October twenty-fourth, two thousand twenty-six, with the series tied and the title on the line.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Petr Yan	12-4-0	Bantamweight champion
Merab Dvalishvili	14-3-0	Bantamweight #1

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

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Mike Malott Secures Highlight-Reel Knockout Over Joaquin Buckley at UFC Edmonton

Mike Malott secured a highlight-reel knockout victory over Joaquin Buckley in the main event of UFC Edmonton on October 17, 2026. The decisive finish came in the second round, with Malott landing a perfectly timed knee that sent Buckley to the canvas at 2:32 of the round. The impact of the knee was such that Buckley's mouthpiece was visibly dislodged and sent flying across the cage.

Fighter Reactions to the Knockout

The brutal knockout elicited strong reactions from the mixed martial arts community. Several fighters, including Gilbert Burns, Tatiana Suarez, Arnold Allen, and Kenny Florian, expressed amazement at Malott’s performance, according to MMA Fighting. UFC featherweight Kai Kamaka also reacted to the finish, specifically expressing concern for Joaquin Buckley’s condition. Kamaka posted on social media, “Praying for Buckley,” in response to Buckley’s collapse after the knockout.

Malott's Ascent in the Welterweight Division

The victory marks a significant moment for Mike Malott, who now holds a UFC record of 7-1-0 across eight UFC fights. Prior to this bout, Malott was on a three-fight UFC win streak, which he has now extended to four. His last fight before facing Buckley was in April 2026, where he won against Gilbert Burns by KO/TKO with punches in round three at 2:08 in a welterweight contest. The pre-fight market had Malott at 71% to win that fight. Other recent victories for Malott include a unanimous decision win over Kevin Holland in October 2025, a KO/TKO punch victory against Charles Radtke in May 2025, and a unanimous decision win over Trevin Giles in November 2024. His only UFC loss came in January 2024 against Neil Magny. Following his win over Buckley, Malott's UFC Elo rating stands at 1121, and he is officially ranked as the #13 welterweight in the UFC. Malott, who is 34 years old, stands 6 feet 1 inch tall with a 73-inch reach and fights from an Orthodox stance. He has demonstrated a takedown accuracy of 58% with 1.1 takedowns per fight before this bout, though his takedown defense was 17%.

Buckley's Recent Challenges

For Joaquin Buckley, this defeat adds another challenge to his recent welterweight run. Buckley, who is 32 years old, has a UFC record of 11-6-0 across 17 UFC fights. He stands 5 feet 10 inches tall with a 76-inch reach and fights from a Southpaw stance. Before this fight, Buckley was ranked #10 in the welterweight division. This loss marks his third consecutive defeat, following unanimous decision losses to Sean Brady in May 2026 and Kamaru Usman in June 2025. Prior to these losses, Buckley had secured notable victories, including a KO/TKO win over Colby Covington in December 2024 and a KO/TKO punch victory against Stephen Thompson in October 2024. His UFC Elo rating after the fight is 1114. Buckley's takedown accuracy before the fight was 36% with 1.2 takedowns per fight, and his takedown defense stood at 73%. There are no next booked UFC fights on record for either fighter.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Mike Malott	7-1-0	Welterweight #13
Joaquin Buckley	11-6-0	Welterweight #10

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

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Jaqueline Amorim Accepts Six-Month Suspension for UFC Anti-Doping Violation

UFC strawweight Jaqueline Amorim has accepted a six-month suspension for violating the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, following the detection of low levels of ostarine in two out-of-competition tests. The Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) agency, which administers the UFC’s anti-doping program, determined that the positive findings were consistent with exposure to a contaminated supplement rather than intentional use.

Details of the Violation

Amorim's samples, collected on July 29 and August 17, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, revealed the presence of ostarine, a prohibited non-Specified Substance classified as an Anabolic Agent. Ostarine is banned at all times under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy.

According to a statement from CSAD, as reported by NDTV Sports and MMA Weekly, an investigation into the matter concluded that the findings were consistent with contamination. Factors contributing to this determination included Amorim's testing history, the low concentrations of ostarine found in both samples, her use of multiple dietary supplements that had not undergone third-party testing and certification, and the known prevalence of ostarine contamination in dietary supplements globally. The agency also noted that the evidence did not suggest Amorim's exposure provided her with any significant performance advantage.

Amorim's period of ineligibility commenced on August 17, 2026, the date she was notified of her provisional suspension. Her six-month suspension is set to conclude on February 17, 2027.

Amorim's UFC Career

Jaqueline Amorim, who was 30 years old at the time of her last fight, holds a UFC record of 5-2-0 across seven UFC fights. Known for her grappling prowess, Amorim has secured several impressive victories within the Octagon. Her most recent outing was in May 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Song vs. Figueiredo, where she defeated Loma Lookboonmee by submission via armbar in the first round, at four minutes and four seconds. The pre-fight market had placed her chances of winning that bout at 56%.

Prior to this, Amorim had a unanimous decision loss to Mizuki in October 2025 at UFC 321: Aspinall vs. Gane. However, she had built a strong submission streak before that, including a second-round rear-naked choke victory over Polyana Viana in April 2025 and first-round armbar finishes against Vanessa Demopoulos in September 2024 and Cory McKenna in March 2024. Her offensive grappling statistics reflect her style, with an average of 1.3 takedowns per fight at a 71% accuracy rate before her last fight.

Currently, Jaqueline Amorim does not have a next booked UFC fight on the schedule, and she will be eligible to return to competition in mid-February 2027.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Jaqueline Amorim	5-2-0	unranked

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

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Buckley and Malott Make Weight for UFC Edmonton Headliner

The weigh-ins for UFC Edmonton concluded with all fighters successfully making their contracted weights, including headliners Joaquin Buckley and Mike Malott. The event, set to take place in Edmonton, Canada, saw both welterweight contenders step onto the scale without issue, as reported by multiple outlets including MMA Fighting and MMA Junkie. The main event fighters also participated in a face-off, building anticipation for their bout.

Buckley's Recent Form and Ranking

Joaquin Buckley, currently ranked #10 in the UFC welterweight division, enters this contest with a UFC record of 11-6-0 across seventeen UFC fights. The 32-year-old southpaw, standing 5' 10" with a 76-inch reach, has experienced a mixed run in his most recent outings. In May 2026, at UFC 328: Chimaev vs. Strickland, Buckley lost a unanimous decision to Sean Brady in a welterweight bout, where pre-fight markets had him at 38% to win. This followed another unanimous decision loss in June 2025 against Kamaru Usman at UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley. Prior to these two losses, Buckley had secured three consecutive victories, including a knockout/technical knockout win over Colby Covington in December 2024 at UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley, and another KO/TKO punch victory against Stephen Thompson in October 2024 at UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr. His takedown defense stands at 73%, while he averages 1.2 takedowns per fight with 36% accuracy.

Malott's Momentum and Welterweight Standing

Mike Malott, the #13 ranked welterweight, brings a UFC record of 7-1-0 from eight UFC fights into the main event. The 34-year-old orthodox fighter, who is 6' 1" with a 73-inch reach, was on a three-fight UFC win streak before his last fight. His most recent performance in April 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Malott saw him defeat Gilbert Burns by KO/TKO punches in the third round, with pre-fight markets favoring him at 71% to win. This victory extended a streak that included a unanimous decision win over Kevin Holland in October 2025 and a second-round KO/TKO punch victory against Charles Radtke in May 2025 at UFC 315: Muhammad vs. Della Maddalena. Malott's sole UFC loss came in January 2024 at UFC 297: Strickland vs. Du Plessis against Neil Magny by KO/TKO punches. His grappling statistics show an average of 1.1 takedowns per fight with 58% accuracy, though his takedown defense is 17%.

Pre-Fight Commentary

Ahead of the welterweight clash, fellow UFC welterweight Sean Brady, who defeated Buckley in May, offered his perspective, picking Joaquin Buckley to upset Mike Malott at UFC Edmonton. This main event marks a significant opportunity for both fighters to solidify their positions within the competitive welterweight division.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Joaquin Buckley	11-6-0	Welterweight #10
Mike Malott	7-1-0	Welterweight #13

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

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Israel Adesanya Reportedly Booked Against Shara Magomedov for December 5 UFC Saudi Arabia Event

Former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya is reportedly slated to return to the octagon against Shara Magomedov in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia on December 5, 2026. Prominent MMA journalist Ariel Helwani was the first to report the news, indicating the middleweight clash is expected to headline the promotion's event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. As of this report, the UFC has not yet officially confirmed the matchup or the event date.

Adesanya Seeks to End Losing Skid

Israel Adesanya, aged 36, will enter this potential bout with a UFC record of 13-6-0 across 19 UFC fights. He is currently on a four-fight losing streak, a significant turn in his career trajectory. His most recent defeat occurred in March 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Pyfer, where he lost to Joe Pyfer by KO/TKO punches in the second round at four minutes and eighteen seconds. The pre-fight market had Adesanya at 56% to win that bout. Prior to that, in February 2025, he lost to Nassourdine Imavov by KO/TKO punch in the second round, and in August 2024, he was defeated by Dricus Du Plessis via submission with a rear naked choke in the fourth round. His losing streak began in September 2023, when he lost to Sean Strickland by unanimous decision over five rounds. Adesanya's last victory was in April 2023 at UFC 287, where he won against Alex Pereira by KO/TKO punch in the second round. Adesanya, who stands six feet, four inches tall with an eighty-inch reach and fights in a switch stance, holds an official UFC ranking of Middleweight #9. His UFC Elo rating after his last fight was 1113. Before his last fight, his takedowns per fight averaged 0.1 at 5% accuracy, with a takedown defense of 73%.

Reports also indicate that Adesanya has made a change in his training environment, having left his longtime team at City Kickboxing earlier this year. He is now reportedly training alongside Alexander Volkanovski and Mauricio Ruffy.

Magomedov Aims for Breakthrough

Shara Magomedov, aged 32, holds a UFC record of 6-1-0 from seven UFC fights. He is currently ranked Middleweight #15. Magomedov, known as 'Shara Bullet,' has openly expressed interest in facing Adesanya, having called him out after his victory over Michel Pereira in June 2026. Adesanya previously reacted to a callout from Magomedov in 2024, stating, "Keep my name out of your f—ing mouth."

Magomedov's most recent fight was in June 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Fiziev vs. Torres, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Michel Pereira after three rounds. The pre-fight market had Magomedov at 79% to win that contest. This win extended his UFC win streak to one, following a unanimous decision victory over Marc-Andre Barriault in July 2025. His sole UFC loss came in February 2025 against Michael Page by unanimous decision. Magomedov, who is six feet, two inches tall with a seventy-three-inch reach and fights in an orthodox stance, has a UFC Elo rating of 1086 after his last fight. Before his last fight, his takedowns per fight averaged 0.0 at 0% accuracy, with a takedown defense of 76%.

This reported main event matchup in Saudi Arabia would mark a significant opportunity for Magomedov to test himself against a former champion and potentially climb further up the middleweight rankings. For Adesanya, it represents a critical chance to snap his four-fight losing streak and reassert his position among the division's elite.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Israel Adesanya	13-6-0	Middleweight #9
Shara Magomedov	6-1-0	Middleweight #15

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

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Farid Basharat Criticizes UFC After Undefeated Departure

Undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat has confirmed his departure from the UFC, releasing a statement on social media that included criticism of the organization. Basharat’s exit comes after his contract concluded, and he was not offered a new deal by the promotion, despite maintaining a perfect record in the Octagon. His statement, widely reported by outlets such as Heavy.com and MMA Fighting, indicated a belief that the UFC is moving in a different direction from its past.

Basharat's Statement and Departure Details

Basharat took to social media to address the news of his removal from the UFC roster. He expressed pride in his accomplishments within the organization, noting his stainless record upon departure. According to Heavy.com, Basharat stated that his departure had nothing to do with his fighting capabilities. He also clarified that he was never offered a contract or an opponent since his last fight and had never declined a fight during his tenure with the promotion.

In his statement, Basharat directly addressed his view of the organization's current state, saying, “Unfortunately the organisation just isn't what it used to be. They're heading in a different direction from what we all grew up loving.” This sentiment was echoed across various MMA news outlets, including Cageside Press and Bloody Elbow, highlighting the fighter's strong feelings regarding his unexpected release.

His departure follows a trend seen with other fighters whose contracts have expired without renewal. Basharat is now a free agent and is able to sign with any other combat sports promotion. His brother, Javid Basharat, who was also previously released by the UFC, has since joined PFL/MVP MMA, suggesting a potential path for Farid.

An Undefeated Record in the Octagon

Farid Basharat leaves the UFC with an unblemished UFC record of 7-0-0, having competed in seven fights for the promotion. His last bout took place in July 2026 at UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway 2, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over John Garza in the bantamweight division. The pre-fight market had favored Basharat significantly, giving him an 85% chance to win that contest.

Before his departure, Basharat was ranked #13 in the official UFC bantamweight rankings. At the time of his last fight, he was 28 years old, standing 5' 8'' with a reach of 71 inches, fighting out of an Orthodox stance. His UFC win streak before his last fight stood at six consecutive victories, a notable achievement in the competitive bantamweight division.

Throughout his UFC career, Basharat demonstrated strong grappling capabilities, averaging 3.0 takedowns per fight with a 51% accuracy. His takedown defense stood at 49%. His wins included unanimous decision victories over Jean Matsumoto in February 2026 at UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira, and Chris Gutierrez in October 2025 at UFC 320: Ankalaev vs. Pereira 2. He also secured a unanimous decision win against Victor Hugo in October 2024 at UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway, competing at featherweight for that bout, before returning to bantamweight.

Basharat's next booked UFC fight is currently none on the schedule, confirming his status as a free agent in the mixed martial arts landscape.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Farid Basharat	7-0-0	Bantamweight #13

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

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Farid Basharat Exits UFC Roster Despite Undefeated Record

Undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat has reportedly been removed from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) roster, despite maintaining a perfect record within the promotion. The news, initially reported by Guilherme Cruz of MMA Fighting, indicates that Basharat's departure stems from the expiration of his contract, with the UFC opting not to offer him a new deal.

Basharat, who holds an unblemished professional mixed martial arts record of 16-0, had compiled a 7-0 UFC record during his tenure. His last outing was a unanimous decision victory over John Garza at UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway 2 in July 2026.

Contract Expiration Leads to Departure

Sources indicate that Basharat's contract concluded after his win against Garza. Prior to that bout, the 28-year-old fighter was aware it was the final fight on his existing agreement. According to MMA Fighting, Basharat had expressed his desire to re-sign with the promotion, stating before UFC 329, “If it were up to me, I’d re-sign straight away because ultimately the UFC is where everybody wants to be. I love being here.”

His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, also weighed in on the situation, telling Bloody Elbow that it would be "crazy" if the UFC did not re-sign Basharat, emphasizing his client's standing as one of the best bantamweights globally.

An Undefeated Run in the Octagon

Farid Basharat joined the UFC after earning a contract on Dana White's Contender Series in 2022. He quickly established himself in the bantamweight division, accumulating seven consecutive victories. His UFC record stands at 7-0-0, with notable wins against opponents such as Jean Matsumoto, Chris Gutierrez, and Taylor Lapilus. Before his last fight, Basharat was on a six-fight UFC win streak, which extended to seven with his win over Garza. He was officially ranked #13 in the UFC bantamweight division at the time of his reported removal.

His last fight against John Garza at UFC 329 in July 2026 saw him secure a unanimous decision after three rounds. The pre-fight market had favored Basharat significantly, giving him an 85% chance to win. Earlier in 2026, in February, he defeated Jean Matsumoto by split decision, where he was favored at 73% to win. In October 2025, he secured another unanimous decision against Chris Gutierrez at UFC 320.

While Basharat's record is perfect, six of his seven UFC victories came by decision. This aspect has been highlighted by outlets like Heavy, which suggested that the UFC's preference for fighters who secure finishes, coupled with the potential for a higher contract due to his undefeated status, might have influenced the decision not to renew his deal. Basharat's fighting style included an average of 3.0 takedowns per fight with 51% accuracy, alongside a 49% takedown defense rate.

Basharat now enters free agency, becoming a notable figure available to other promotions. This situation mirrors that of his brother, Javid Basharat, who also departed the UFC after a victory and subsequently signed with the PFL.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Farid Basharat	7-0-0	Bantamweight #13

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

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Volkanovski Confident Ahead of UFC 333 Title Defense Against Undefeated Evloev

Volkanovski, currently ranked as the Men's Pound-for-Pound #2 and the Featherweight champion, believes he presents a challenging matchup for Evloev. He told Paramount+ that while he considers Evloev the best in the division outside of himself, stylistically, it is one of the better matchups for him. Volkanovski further elaborated, stating that Evloev's skills, which pose problems for many fighters, do not trouble him.

The champion also commented on Evloev's fighting approach, noting that the challenger has secured all ten of his UFC victories by decision. Volkanovski asserted that it would be a difficult task for anyone to defeat him over 25 minutes, suggesting that Evloev's typical path to victory would not be effective against him. He even proposed that Evloev's best strategy might be to attempt a knockout rather than rely on his wrestling, anticipating that his own takedown defense would neutralize Evloev's grappling plans.

Movsar Evloev, the #1 ranked Featherweight contender, offered a direct response to Volkanovski's assessment. In an interview with MMA Junkie, Evloev called Volkanovski's approach "a little illogical" and declared, "I will do anything I want. Whenever I decide to take him down, I will take him down". Evloev, who maintains a perfect 10-0-0 UFC record, also highlighted improvements in his striking and expressed belief that his time to become champion is approaching.

Fighter Data Insights

Alexander Volkanovski enters UFC 333 with a UFC record of 15-3-0 across eighteen fights. The 37-year-old champion is coming off a unanimous decision win against Diego Lopes in January 2026 at UFC 325, following another unanimous decision victory over Lopes in April 2025. These wins followed two losses in 2024 and 2023, one by KO/TKO to Ilia Topuria in February 2024 and another by KO/TKO to Islam Makhachev in October 2023 in a Lightweight bout. Volkanovski boasts a 70% takedown defense rate.

Movsar Evloev, aged 32, holds an unblemished 10-0-0 UFC record over ten fights and is currently on a nine-fight UFC win streak. His most recent victory was a majority decision over Lerone Murphy in March 2026. Evloev is known for his wrestling prowess, averaging 4.7 takedowns per fight with 57% accuracy, and maintaining a 74% takedown defense. The upcoming bout marks his first championship opportunity.

The stylistic clash has drawn attention from other fighters. Dustin Poirier, for instance, has favored Evloev, citing Volkanovski's age and Evloev's current momentum. Former opponent Islam Makhachev also leans towards the challenger. Volkanovski's coach, Joe Lopez, reportedly acknowledged that Evloev's defensive grappling could present a favorable style for the champion to overcome.

UFC 333, featuring Volkanovski vs. Evloev for the Featherweight title, is scheduled to take place on October 24, 2026, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Alexander Volkanovski	15-3-0	Featherweight champion
Movsar Evloev	10-0-0	Featherweight #1

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

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Alex Pereira Alleges UFC, Daniel Cormier Manipulated Gane-Hokit Narrative

Alex Pereira, a prominent figure in the UFC, has publicly accused the promotion and former two-division champion Daniel Cormier of manipulating public opinion to generate support for a heavyweight clash between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit. Pereira voiced his concerns during an interview with Laerte Viana, suggesting that the UFC actively worked to shape the narrative around the matchup.

According to Pereira, the UFC utilized influential figures, including Daniel Cormier, to promote the Gane versus Hokit fight before its official announcement. He claimed the strategy was to make the public receptive to the bout, thereby presenting it as a fan-driven decision rather than a promotional choice. Pereira recounted that the UFC informed him they had conducted a poll indicating fan preference for Gane against Hokit. However, Pereira stated he never saw such a poll and believes the process was manipulated.

Pereira also recalled a past conversation with Cormier that left him questioning the former champion's perspective on his heavyweight title aspirations. Pereira stated that when he asked Cormier if he would be considered a champion if he defeated Gane, Cormier responded, "Well, I don't think so; you have to win". Pereira interpreted this and similar comments from other figures as an attempt to influence public perception.

Pereira's Recent Heavyweight Journey and Future

The accusation from Alex Pereira comes after a significant period in his career, marked by a move to the heavyweight division. Pereira, who holds a UFC record of 10-3-0, last competed in June 2026 at UFC Freedom 250, where he faced Ciryl Gane. In that bout, Pereira lost to Gane by KO/TKO via punches in the second round at one minute and twenty-seven seconds. Despite the loss, the pre-fight market had Pereira at a fifty-one percent chance to win. At the time of that fight, Pereira was thirty-eight years old, standing six feet, four inches tall with a seventy-nine-inch reach, fighting from an Orthodox stance.

Following his loss to Gane, Pereira was reportedly expecting a rematch, especially after vacating his Light Heavyweight title earlier in the year to pursue a third divisional championship. Currently, Alex Pereira is ranked as the Men's Pound-for-Pound #10 fighter and the #3 contender in the Light Heavyweight division. His next scheduled UFC fight is against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335: Oliveira vs. Lopes, set for December 12, 2026, in the Heavyweight division. Meanwhile, Ciryl Gane is slated to defend his title against Josh Hokit at UFC 334.

By the numbers

Fighter	UFC record	Ranking
Alex Pereira	10-3-0	Light Heavyweight #3

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

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