As the calendar turns to 2026, mixed martial arts (MMA) fans are in for an exhilarating year. The upcoming schedule includes high-profile matchups and significant events from both the UFC and the PFL. The first major fight of the year features a highly anticipated bout between Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison for the UFC bantamweight championship. This event marks a notable start to a new era for the UFC, which has transitioned to Paramount+ as its broadcasting platform.
The UFC’s first card of the year, scheduled for January 24 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, will also showcase Justin Gaethje battling Paddy Pimblett for the interim UFC lightweight title. This clash promises to deliver excitement, as both fighters are known for their striking power and dynamic fighting styles.
Key Fights and Events on the Horizon
February will bring more thrilling action, beginning with UFC 325 on February 1 in Sydney, Australia, where Alexander Volkanovski will defend his featherweight title against Diego Lopes. Following that, the UFC Apex in Las Vegas will host several events, including a bantamweight matchup between Mario Bautista and Vinicius Oliveira on February 7.
That same day, the PFL will present its Champions Series 5 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, featuring Usman Nurmagomedov defending his lightweight world championship against Alfie Davis. Other notable bouts on the card include Ramazan Kuramagomedov facing Shamil Musaev for the PFL welterweight championship.
As the month progresses, additional UFC events will take place, including bouts in Houston and Mexico City, showcasing fighters such as Brandon Moreno and Sean Strickland.
A Year of Anticipation
The momentum will continue into March, highlighted by UFC 326 on March 7, where Max Holloway will defend his BMF title against Charles Oliveira at the T-Mobile Arena. The following week, on March 20, the PFL Champions Series 6 will take place in Madrid, Spain, featuring Costello van Steenis defending his middleweight title against Fabian Edwards.
The year will culminate with a historic event on June 14 at the White House in Washington, D.C. This unique event is expected to generate considerable interest, although details regarding specific matchups are yet to be announced.
As the MMA landscape evolves, fans will be eager to see if stars like Conor McGregor, Francis Ngannou, and Jon Jones make their anticipated returns to the octagon. Speculation also surrounds potential matchups involving Jake Paul and Oleksandr Usyk, which could further elevate the sport’s profile in 2026.
With an exciting lineup ahead, The Sporting News will provide updates on all announced fights and events as the year unfolds. Fans can look forward to a thrilling array of matches that promise to deliver intense competition and unforgettable moments.
