UFC's 2026 Landscape: Anticipated Fights and Key Players

As the UFC transitions into a new era with a seven-year deal with Paramount+, the promotion is set to reimagine its matchmaking approach. Among the most anticipated matchups is the welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. Both fighters are reigning champions and currently ranked as the top two pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC. However, Topuria is expected to miss the first quarter of 2025 due to personal issues, which may delay this high-stakes bout until later in 2026.

CBS SportsIlia Topuria reveals timeframe for UFC returnJon Jones heaps praise on UFC champ Islam Makhachev: 'Special athlete'Jon Jones serenades ‘special athlete’ Islam Makhachev in surprising admission about Dagestani superstar

In the lightweight division, Topuria is also slated to face Paddy Pimblett, who is in line for an interim title fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324. This matchup is particularly notable due to the heated rivalry between Topuria and Pimblett, which dates back to a confrontation in 2022. The winner of the Gaethje-Pimblett fight will likely challenge for the unified title against Topuria later in the year.

CBS SportsIlia Topuria reveals timeframe for UFC return

The women's bantamweight division is poised for a significant clash as Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison are set to face off at UFC 324. Nunes, regarded as the greatest women's MMA fighter, will defend her title against Harrison, a two-time gold medalist judoka and reigning champion. This fight is critical for revitalizing a division that has struggled to generate interest in the absence of star power.

CBS SportsJon Jones heaps praise on UFC champ Islam Makhachev: 'Special athlete'Jon Jones serenades ‘special athlete’ Islam Makhachev in surprising admission about Dagestani superstar

Valentina Shevchenko, the women's flyweight champion, is also a key figure in this landscape. She has expressed interest in fighting Harrison, potentially setting up a future bout that could further elevate the women's divisions.

CBS Sports

Conor McGregor, once a pivotal figure in the UFC's rise, faces challenges as he attempts to regain his standing in the sport. Following consecutive losses and an anti-doping suspension, McGregor's reputation has waned. Nonetheless, he remains a significant draw, with potential matchups against Michael Chandler or a long-awaited trilogy fight with Nate Diaz being discussed. UFC CEO Dana White has indicated interest in bringing McGregor back for a high-profile event later this year.

CBS SportsJon Jones serenades ‘special athlete’ Islam Makhachev in surprising admission about Dagestani superstar

Jon Jones, a former two-division champion, has publicly praised Islam Makhachev, labeling him a "special athlete" and one of the greatest fighters of all time. Makhachev recently captured the welterweight title, further solidifying his status in the sport. Jones' endorsement adds weight to Makhachev's growing legacy, especially as both fighters may share a card later this year.

Jon Jones heaps praise on UFC champ Islam Makhachev: 'Special athlete'

The UFC's 2026 landscape is shaping up to be filled with high-stakes matchups and compelling narratives. With champions like Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria at the forefront, alongside the return of iconic figures like Conor McGregor, the promotion is poised for a year of significant developments. As fans anticipate these fights, the outcomes will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of the sport for years to come.

CBS Sports