Brandon Matthew Royval Bio
Brandon Matthew Royval is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on August 16, 1992, in Denver, Colorado, Royval has been active in professional MMA since 2012 and is recognized as a former Legacy Fighting Alliance Flyweight Champion. As of July 1, 2025, he is ranked #3 in the UFC flyweight rankings.
Early Life and Background
Brandon Royval was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, in a Mexican family. He began training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai at the age of 15, developing a strong foundation in martial arts early on. Royval has an older brother named Darian and grew up immersed in combat sports culture.
Path to MMA
Royval started his amateur MMA career at 18, compiling an undefeated 5–0 record. He turned professional in 2012, primarily competing in the Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA), where he built a solid reputation. His persistence and skill earned him a chance to fight for the interim LFA Flyweight Championship, marking a significant step toward national prominence.
Brandon Royval Career
Early Career (2012–2019)
Brandon Royval began his professional MMA journey in 2012, quickly establishing himself with an 8–3 record in regional promotions. Fighting mostly in the Legacy Fighting Alliance, he gained valuable experience and notable victories. His early career included a title shot for the interim LFA Flyweight Championship against Casey Kenney, which he lost by unanimous decision but demonstrated his competitive level.
Legacy Fighting Alliance Breakthrough (2019)
In 2019, Royval secured a submission victory over UFC veteran Joby Sanchez at LFA 65, showcasing his grappling prowess. Later that year, he won the vacant LFA Flyweight title via first-round armbar against Nate Williams after the original opponent withdrew. This championship win was a pivotal moment, propelling him toward the UFC stage.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Era (2020–Present)
Brandon Royval made his UFC debut on May 30, 2020, defeating Tim Elliott by submission in the second round, earning Fight of the Night honors. He continued to impress with a submission win over Kai Kara-France at UFC 253, again receiving Fight of the Night recognition. Despite setbacks, including losses to Brandon Moreno and Alexandre Pantoja, Royval remained a top contender. His victories over Matt Schnell and Matheus Nicolau highlighted his dynamic fighting style, earning him additional performance bonuses. In 2024 and 2025, he participated in high-profile bouts, including a rematch with Moreno and a record-setting fight against Joshua Van.
Driving Style and Strengths
Royval is known for his aggressive grappling and submission skills, holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His Muay Thai striking complements his ground game, making him a versatile and dangerous opponent. His ability to maintain a high pace and adapt mid-fight has been key to his success.
Notable Events and Milestones
Royval has earned multiple Fight of the Night awards in the UFC, reflecting his exciting fighting style. His bout with Joshua Van in 2025 set a record for the most significant strikes landed in a three-round UFC flyweight fight. He also contended for the UFC Flyweight Championship in a rematch against Alexandre Pantoja in 2023.
Brandon Royval Career Wins
Brandon Royval has accumulated 17 professional wins across his MMA career, demonstrating proficiency in submissions, decisions, and striking finishes.
Legacy Fighting Alliance Highlights
Royval captured the LFA Flyweight Championship with a first-round armbar victory, marking a career highlight before joining the UFC. His performance in LFA established him as a top flyweight prospect.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Highlights
In the UFC, Royval has secured multiple wins by submission and decision, including notable victories against Tim Elliott and Kai Kara-France. His fights often earn performance bonuses, underscoring his impact in the division.
Brandon Royval Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Royval grew up in a supportive Mexican family in Denver, with an older brother named Darian. His family background contributed to his strong work ethic and dedication to martial arts.
Personal Life
Outside the octagon, Royval lived in Englewood, Colorado, and worked full-time in the juvenile justice system before focusing solely on his fighting career. He also served as a jiu-jitsu instructor at Factory X, his training team.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Brandon Royval remained an active and ranked contender in the UFC Flyweight division. Despite withdrawing from a scheduled fight due to concussion issues, he participated in a record-setting bout against Joshua Van, earning another Fight of the Night award. He is scheduled for a rescheduled fight against Manel Kape, aiming to solidify his position among the division’s elite. Royval continues to train with Factory X, focusing on maintaining his competitive edge and pursuing championship opportunities.