The past year brought sharp turns for mixed martial arts, from unexpected title changes to breakout performances by British fighters. As the calendar turns, several storylines are set to define 2026 across the UFC and PFL, with championship bouts, recoveries and long-awaited rivalries all in focus.
Aspinall’s uncertain road back
Tom Aspinall’s reign as UFC heavyweight champion was disrupted when his first defence against Ciryl Gane ended in a no-contest after an accidental eye poke. The injury later revealed a rare eye condition that has kept the 32-year-old out of training.
UFC officials have publicly supported a rematch, but any return depends on medical clearance following surgery. A second meeting, if confirmed, is unlikely before late spring or summer, according to UFC timelines.
Pimblett steps into centre stage
With Aspinall sidelined, attention shifts to Paddy Pimblett, who fights Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on 24 January. The bout was sanctioned after champion Ilia Topuria became unavailable, as confirmed in a UFC statement.
Despite being ranked outside the top four, Pimblett’s win over Michael Chandler elevated his profile, making him a commercially strong option. A potential undisputed title fight could follow if Topuria returns later in the year.
British surge in the PFL
The PFL enters 2026 with multiple British fighters in title contention. Alfie Davis secured the lightweight tournament and a $500,000 prize to earn a championship bout in February, according to PFL records. Fabian Edwards also claimed tournament success at middleweight and is scheduled to challenge for gold in March.
Dakota Ditcheva, unbeaten and already a PFL champion, could move towards a crossover bout after a public callout from Cris Cyborg, as noted by PFL event coverage.
Contenders closing in
Beyond title fights, several names are positioned one win away from championship opportunities. Ian Machado Garry sits near the top of the UFC welterweight rankings, while Lerone Murphy’s unbeaten run has placed him firmly among featherweight contenders, according to UFC rankings data.
With champions active across divisions, both fighters remain within reach of title shots before the end of 2026.
As injuries heal and divisions realign, the year ahead promises defining moments for fighters ready to convert momentum into legacy.
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