MMA – Page 6 – Fight Matrix

Islam Makhachev Leads the Charge of the Octagon Anglers

Posted on February 17, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Before Islam Makhachev stepped into the octagon to chase the welterweight title at UFC 322, he was spotted spending his downtime chasing a different kind of prize. While in New Jersey, the man from Makhachkala in Russia was seen in Pell’s Bait and Tackle shop to gear up for a fishing trip.

Even with a massive title fight against Jack Della Maddalena looming at Madison Square Garden – a bout that would ultimately see the Dagestani Destroyer tie a new UFC record for the longest winning streak – Makhachev showed he’s never too busy to ignore his fishing passion for long.

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Fight Matrix Program – UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez (02-21-2026)

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Jason

Middleweight (185)
[#4][#4UFC] Sean Strickland (29-7-0, +228) vs. [#7][#7UFC] Anthony Hernandez (15-2-0, -283)
Sean Strickland is the All-Time #18 ranked Middleweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Sean Strickland (1-2-0)
2025-02-08: L vs. [#7DD][#9P4P][#2MW] Dricus Du Plessis (23-3-0) via UD (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)
2024-06-01: W vs. [#9MW] Paulo Costa (15-4-0) via SD (49-46, 50-45, 46-49)
2024-01-20: L vs. [#7DD][#9P4P][#2MW] Dricus Du Plessis (23-3-0) via SD (48-47, 47-48, 48-47)

Last 3 Fights: Anthony Hernandez (3-0-0)
2025-08-09: W vs. [#16MW] Roman Dolidze (15-4-0) via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in 2:45 of round 4
2025-02-22: W vs. [#6MW] Brendan Allen (26-7-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2024-10-19: W vs. [#70MW] Michel Pereira (32-14-0) via TKO (Elbows) in 2:22 of round 5

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Anthony Hernandez	-283		70.78%
Elo K170	Anthony Hernandez	2161.82	+62.50	58.90%
Elo Modified	Anthony Hernandez	2129.30	+69.39	59.86%
Glicko-1	Anthony Hernandez	2228.09	+90.54	62.74%
WHR	Anthony Hernandez	2085.11	+102.92	64.39%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Sean Strickland 35.0, Anthony Hernandez 32.3
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Sean Strickland 378, Anthony Hernandez 196
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Anthony Hernandez leads 2-1
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Welterweight (170)
[#22][#19UFC] Geoff Neal (16-7-0, -195) vs. [#30][#25UFC] Uros Medic (12-3-0, +161)

Last 3 Fights: Geoff Neal (1-2-0)
2025-08-16: L vs. [#8WW] Carlos Prates (23-7-0) via KO (Spinning Back Elbow) in 4:59 of round 1
2024-10-26: W vs. [*] Rafael dos Anjos (32-17-0) via TKO (Knee Injury) in 1:30 of round 1
2024-02-17: L vs. [#5WW] Ian Garry (17-1-0) via SD (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)

Last 3 Fights: Uros Medic (2-1-0)
2025-11-08: W vs. [#39WW] Muslim Salikhov (22-6-0) via TKO (Punches) in 1:03 of round 1
2025-08-09: W vs. [#584WW] Gilbert Urbina (7-4-0) via KO (Punch) in 1:03 of round 1
2025-01-11: L vs. [#51WW] Punahele Soriano (12-4-0) via KO (Punches) in 0:31 of round 1

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Geoff Neal	-195		63.30%
Elo K170	Geoff Neal	1873.48	+153.37	70.74%
Elo Modified	Geoff Neal	1868.41	+133.14	68.27%
Glicko-1	Geoff Neal	1946.47	+154.43	70.87%
WHR	Geoff Neal	1835.79	+125.33	67.29%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Geoff Neal 35.5, Uros Medic 32.8
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Geoff Neal 189, Uros Medic 105
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
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Featherweight (145)
[#19][#14UFC] Dan Ige (19-10-0, +172) vs. [#24][#16UFC] Melquizael Costa (25-7-0, -212)

Last 3 Fights: Dan Ige (1-2-0)
2025-07-19: L vs. [#10FW] Patricio Freire (37-8-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2025-04-12: W vs. [#41FW] Sean Woodson (13-2-1) via TKO (Punches) in 1:12 of round 3
2024-10-26: L vs. [#7FW] Lerone Murphy (17-0-1) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Last 3 Fights: Melquizael Costa (3-0-0)
2025-12-13: W vs. [#67FW] Morgan Charriere (21-12-1) via KO (Head Kick) in 1:14 of round 1
2025-05-17: W vs. [#59FW] Julian Erosa (31-12-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2025-03-29: W vs. [#113FW] Christian Rodriguez (12-4-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Melquizael Costa	-212		64.89%
Elo K170	Melquizael Costa	1945.24	+142.84	69.47%
Elo Modified	Melquizael Costa	1925.28	+140.47	69.18%
Glicko-1	Melquizael Costa	1965.58	+132.86	68.24%
WHR	Melquizael Costa	1789.59	+15.43	52.22%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Dan Ige 34.5, Melquizael Costa 29.4
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Dan Ige 217, Melquizael Costa 70
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Even: Both have 1 win(s) against common opposition.
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UFC Fight Night 267 – Main Event Preview

Posted on February 15, 2026 by Vitaliy Vovk

Sean Strickland (#4 MW | #3 UFC) vs Anthony Hernandez (#7 MW | #4 UFC)

Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States

February 21, 2026

________________________________________

Context

The main event of UFC Fight Night 267 brings together two top-tier middleweights with contrasting styles and significant divisional implications. Strickland is a proven five-round veteran with extensive experience against elite competition. Hernandez enters as one of the division’s most physically imposing and surging contenders, riding strong momentum into this matchup.

The winner solidifies his position near the top of the rankings and strengthens his case in the title picture.

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Vitaliy Vovk

MMA Promoter | Event Organizer | Analyst

Founder & President of Real Fight Promotion (RFP) – one of the longest-running and most recognized MMA organizations in Ukraine. Organizer of 100+ MMA events. Contributor, analyst, and Trusted Promoter collaborating with leading global MMA platforms.

https://rfpromo.com/

rfpromo.com/

What next for Paddy The Baddy after UFC 324?

Posted on February 13, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Image from Freepik.com

Following his loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, MMA fans are already making predictions about what comes next for Paddy Pimblett.

The Baddy suffered his first defeat in the Octagon in Las Vegas, losing via unanimous decision after a five-round war that saw the American claim the interim lightweight championship. Gaethje will next face Ilia Topuria, expected sometime around the summer.

The result was contentious, especially after the eye gouge that many claim cost Pimblett the fight. The same thing happened to Tom Aspinall, a fellow Brit who suffered bilateral eye injuries from multiple eye pokes by Ciryl Gane back in October.

Gaethje was docked a point for an eye-poke in the opening round, but while some feel it was an influential moment, the Baddy was rocked throughout the contest.

The American went three for three on takedowns compared to Paddy’s zero from five, controlling the fight when it mattered most.

Pimblett did well not to get knocked out after claiming Scousers never get finished, something that would have followed him forever.

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The Top 5 Canadian MMA Prospects to Watch in 2026

Posted on February 13, 2026 by A. J. Riot

*4 November 2021; Georges St-Pierre, UFC Legend on Centre Stage during day three of Web Summit 2021 at the Altice Arena in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by Diarmuid Greene/Web Summit via Sportsfile*

Canada has been producing fighters at a steady clip for years, but 2026 feels different. The talent pool is younger, the finishes are coming earlier in fights, and several of these names are training under coaches who have already built UFC champions.

What makes this group worth paying attention to is that none of them appear close to hitting a ceiling. They are still getting better, and the records back that up. Tommy Morrisson sits unbeaten at 10-0 under Firas Zahabi at Tristar. Mike Malott has knocked out two straight opponents in the UFC welterweight division.

Charles Jourdain has submitted his last two opponents since dropping to bantamweight. Jasmine Jasudavicius just choked out a former champion. Adam Posener holds the BFL welterweight title at 6-0.

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This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays

Posted on February 12, 2026 by Jason

Small tweaks on the “safe” bet amounts. I didn’t really think that one through.

Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:

Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
Both fighters must have at least 7 fights in the prior 7 years, including 1+ loss. If the loss was in their debut, then 2+ losses are required.
Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.

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How MMA Fighters Prepare Physically And Mentally For Fight Night

Posted on February 12, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Have you ever asked yourself how MMA fighters stay so fit, calm, and focused before stepping into the cage?

What do they really do in the days and months before fight night? It may look simple from the outside, but behind every confident walk to the cage, there is strong preparation, smart planning, and a lot of heart.

Mixed Martial Arts is not just about punches and kicks. It is about balance, discipline, and clear thinking. Fighters train their bodies to perform at their best, and at the same time, they train their minds to stay steady and sharp.

Let’s understand how they prepare positively and healthily for one of the most important nights of their career.

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Why MMA Fans in Malaysia Are Turning to Online Casino Games Between Fights

Posted on February 8, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has seen a massive surge in popularity across Malaysia over the past decade. With global fight promotions becoming easier to stream and local gyms producing more competitive fighters, Malaysian fans are more engaged than ever. But as exciting as fight nights are, there’s often downtime — between matches, during long event breaks, or while waiting for the next big card.

Interestingly, many MMA fans are now filling that gap with entertainment from the online casino Malaysia scene. From quick slot sessions to immersive live dealer tables, online casinos have become a popular way for fight enthusiasts to stay entertained and engaged between bouts.

So what’s driving this trend, and why does it resonate so strongly with MMA fans in Malaysia?

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Glendal “Buckshot” Whitney: Missouri’s Undefeated MMA Prospect

Posted on February 6, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Missouri’s fight scene is surging in 2026, with one name leading the charge: Glendal “Buckshot” Whitney. A rising star with an undefeated record in regional MMA promotions, Whitney has captured the attention of fans across the state through aggressive striking, explosive finishes, and a relentless hunger to prove himself. Every match he wins adds weight to the belief that he is not just a hometown hero but a future contender on the national stage.

Fans supporting Whitney’s rise can add to the excitement by exploring the Fanatics Missouri promo code, giving them a chance to gear up responsibly while celebrating local sports talent.

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Fight Matrix Program – UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira (02-07-2026)

Posted on February 2, 2026 by Jason

Bantamweight (135)
[#6][#6UFC] Mario Bautista (16-3-0, -206) vs. [#17][#16UFC] Vinicius Oliveira (24-3-0, +164)

Last 3 Fights: Mario Bautista (2-1-0)
2025-10-25: L vs. [#4BW] Umar Nurmagomedov (20-1-0) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
2025-06-07: W vs. [#14BW] Patrick Mix (19-3-0) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
2024-10-05: W vs. [*] Jose Aldo (32-10-0) via SD (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Last 3 Fights: Vinicius Oliveira (3-0-0)
2025-07-19: W vs. [#24BW] Kyler Phillips (12-4-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2025-02-01: W vs. [#40BW] Said Nurmagomedov (18-5-0) via UD (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
2024-06-29: W vs. [#39BW] Ricky Simon (23-7-0) via UD (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Mario Bautista	-206		63.99%
Elo K170	Mario Bautista	2061.44	+81.52	61.52%
Elo Modified	Mario Bautista	2010.55	+32.43	54.65%
Glicko-1	Mario Bautista	2046.24	+20.44	52.94%
WHR	Mario Bautista	1894.27	+15.45	52.22%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Mario Bautista 32.6, Vinicius Oliveira 30.2
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Mario Bautista 105, Vinicius Oliveira 203
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: Even: Both have 1 win(s) against common opposition.
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Flyweight (125)
[#4][#4UFC] Kyoji Horiguchi (35-5-0, -351) vs. [*] Amir Albazi (17-2-0, +265)
Kyoji Horiguchi is the All-Time #18 ranked Flyweight fighter.
Amir Albazi is the All-Time #44 ranked Flyweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Kyoji Horiguchi (3-0-0)
2025-11-22: W vs. [#14FLY] Tagir Ulanbekov (18-3-0) via Technical Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in 2:18 of round 3
2024-12-31: W vs. [#112FLY] Nkazimulo Zulu (16-8-1) via UD ()
2024-06-09: W vs. [#11BW] Sergio Pettis (25-7-0) via UD ()

Last 3 Fights: Amir Albazi (2-1-0)
2024-11-02: L vs. [#5FLY] Brandon Moreno (23-9-2) via UD (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)
2023-06-03: W vs. [#8FLY] Kai Kara-France (25-12-0) via SD (48-47, 48-47, 47-48)
2022-12-17: W vs. [#133FLY] Alessandro Costa (14-5-0) via KO (Punches) in 2:13 of round 3

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Kyoji Horiguchi	-351		73.96%
Elo K170	Kyoji Horiguchi	2131.83	+322.80	86.51%
Elo Modified	Kyoji Horiguchi	2091.75	+319.43	86.28%
Glicko-1	Kyoji Horiguchi	2153.80	+327.02	86.79%
WHR	Kyoji Horiguchi	2063.39	+361.86	88.92%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Kyoji Horiguchi 35.3, Amir Albazi 32.3
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Kyoji Horiguchi 77, Amir Albazi 462
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
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Heavyweight (265)
[#6][#5UFC] Jailton Almeida (22-4-0, -149) vs. [#23][#15UFC] Rizvan Kuniev (12-3-1, +122)
Jailton Almeida is the All-Time #48 ranked Heavyweight fighter.

Last 3 Fights: Jailton Almeida (2-1-0)
2025-10-25: L vs. [#3HW+] Alexander Volkov (39-11-0) via SD (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
2025-01-18: W vs. [#9HW+] Serghei Spivac (17-6-0) via TKO (Punches) in 4:53 of round 1
2024-06-01: W vs. [#18HW+] Alexander Romanov (20-4-0) via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in 2:27 of round 1

Last 3 Fights: Rizvan Kuniev (1-1-0, 1 NC)
2025-06-21: L vs. [#7HW+] Curtis Blaydes (19-5-0) via SD (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
2024-08-20: W vs. [#195HW+] Hugo Cunha (8-3-0) via TKO (Knee to the Body and Punches) in 4:59 of round 1
2023-04-07: NC vs. [#12HW+] Renan Ferreira (13-5-0)

System	Favorite	Rating	Rating Diff	Win %
Betting Odds	Jailton Almeida	-149		57.05%
Elo K170	Jailton Almeida	1950.94	+324.74	86.64%
Elo Modified	Jailton Almeida	2021.91	+316.10	86.05%
Glicko-1	Jailton Almeida	2131.64	+331.45	87.08%
WHR	Jailton Almeida	1989.07	+170.11	72.70%

Fighter Ages on Fight Day: Jailton Almeida 34.6, Rizvan Kuniev 33.9
Days Since Last Pro Fight: Jailton Almeida 105, Rizvan Kuniev 231
Previous Match-up Record: No previous match-ups.
Wins Against Common Opposition: No common opposition or both are winless against common opposition.
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Is UFC 324 The Fight of the Year Already? Why Gaethje vs. Pimblett Changed MMA Forever

Posted on February 2, 2026 by A. J. Riot

When UFC 324 first came, many fans were excited. However, it was also perceived as a form of an unexpected matchup. Justin Gaethje is known as one of the most established and experienced lightweights in the sector. He was set to face Paddy Pimblett. Paddy was a fast-rising name popular for his overall confidence and skill set. Therefore, the matchup clearly set experience against momentum.

As the fight started, it became clear that there was something more to only entertainment. The bout raised major questions about modern MMA, like how fights are matched, how rankings are viewed, and how the sport rates popularity & competition. As the climax of the match came about, fans were already in a debate: Had UFC 324 delivered the fight of the year?

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Current MMA Rankings Updated (02-01-2026)

Posted on February 1, 2026 by Jason

UFC 325: Volkanovski vs Lopes Preview

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Jack Latham

Background

After the Paramount era got off to a bang last weekend with Justin Gaethje defeating Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title, attention now turns to Australia and the heavily anticipated rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes.

Volkanovski currently holds the featherweight title after defeating Lopes in April 2025, after Ilia Topuria had vacated it to move up to the lightweight division.

Before being defeated by Topuria, Volkanovski had held the title for 1526 days, defeating the likes of Brian Ortega and Max Holloway on the way to securing five title defenses.

As for Lopes, he caught the eye of MMA fans in 2021 after losing via technical decision, due to an eye poke, against Joanderson Brito on Dana White’s Contender Series.

Despite his chance for a contract being cut short, the UFC eventually signed him, and he made his debut on five days’ notice against Movsar Evloev in May 2023.

Lopes then went on to defeat Ortega and Jean Silva to earn a shot at the gold, losing out via unanimous decision over five rounds.

But Lopes is determined to capture the title and this time maybe his fortunes will change…

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Jack Latham

My name is Jack Latham.

I am 20 years old and am currently studying Sports Journalism at the University of Chester.

I became interested in combat sports, particularly MMA, in the lockdown period and have followed it closely ever since.

I have previously created my own website titled ‘Combat Corner,’ where I produce MMA content.

This Week’s WHR Bets/Parlays

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Jason

Back for 2026! There have been some tweaks (noted below by strikethroughs and blue text.)

Fights considered must satisfy all of the criteria below:

Both fighters must be active (fought in 360 days prior to event). Reduces uncertainty.
~~Both fighters must have at least 5 fights, with at least 1 draw or 1 loss (excluding debut). More data makes WHR happy.~~
Both fighters must have at least 7 fights in the prior 7 years, including 1+ loss. If the loss was in their debut, then 2+ losses are required.
Both fighters must be rated in the same division as the fight. Further reduces uncertainty.
Must have odds from at least three bookmakers.

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The Evolution of Combat Sports: From Martial Arts to Modern MMA

Posted on January 27, 2026 by A. J. Riot

Have you ever watched a mixed martial arts fight and thought about how so many styles come together in one space? Many people enjoy combat sports today but do not always know how these systems grew over time. The story of combat sports is long, rich, and full of learning. It connects old training traditions with today’s organized competitions and shows how discipline, respect, and skill have shaped fighters across generations.

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