UFC Releases Heavyweight Contender Almeida
The UFC released former top-10 heavyweight contender Jailton Almeida following a two-fight losing streak. The Brazilian fighter had been considered a rising prospect in the division before his recent setbacks. Mohammed Usman, brother of Kamaru Usman, was also cut after receiving a 30-month PED suspension.
- Almeida's release came after consecutive losses to Alexander Volkov via split decision and Rizvan Kuniev by unanimous decision. - Before these two losses, Almeida had a six-fight winning streak in the UFC and an overall record of 8-3 with the promotion. - Just days before his release, it was announced that Almeida planned to return to the light heavyweight division, where he began his UFC career. - Mohammed Usman's 30-month suspension was retroactive to October 9, 2025, and is set to end on April 9, 2028, at which point he will be 39 years old. - Usman tested positive for testosterone and also admitted to using the prohibited peptide BPC-157. - His suspension was extended by six months because he initially provided false explanations and attempted to deceive the Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) agency. - The UFC has recently released several other fighters, including 10-year veteran Alex Morono and Javid Basharat, who was cut after a win.
