The first UFC Apex event of 2026 delivered impressive performances, with UFC Vegas 113 showcasing rising names like Dustin Jacoby, Farid Basharat, and Michal Oleksiejczuk, all extending their winning streaks. Alongside key ranked matchups, Mario Bautista closed the night with what might be his best display yet. These UFC Vegas 113 winners now face defining moments as their next opponents and fights come into focus.
Mario Bautista’s Rising Momentum and Possible Next Challenge
Mario Bautista continues to demonstrate he is an elite competitor, despite not yet winning widespread fan admiration. After an initial eight-fight winning streak started strong with four finishes, the latter four victories have all been decisions, including a controversial call against former star Jose Aldo that left some fans dissatisfied. Yet, his technical domination of Vinicius Oliveira, which culminated in a second-round stoppage, is a convincing statement that Bautista is evolving.
While the UFC buzzes about a potential showdown between Sean O’Malley and Cory Sandhagen—one of the most anticipated non-title bouts—the promotion may prioritize a rematch between O’Malley and Petr Yan instead. This development could leave Sandhagen available for another matchup. Bautista has openly requested a rematch with Sandhagen, and that seems to be the likely next step for him.
Bautista’s upcoming opponent: Cory Sandhagen
Kyoji Horiguchi’s Impressive Return and Future in Japan
Amir Albazi has faced significant hurdles with two layoffs exceeding a year, interrupted only by a loss to Brandon Moreno. Upon returning, he encountered a revitalized and dominant Kyoji Horiguchi, who controlled the fight across all facets. With two dominant wins since his UFC return, Horiguchi would typically be a prime title contender. However, the flyweight championship landscape remains unsettled due to Alexandre Pantoja’s injury against Joshua Van, and with Manel Kape rising among contenders, Horiguchi currently finds himself sidelined from the title picture.
Considering this, a main event bout in Japan against Tatsuro Taira appears to be Horiguchi’s most viable and strategic next fight, maintaining momentum and fan interest in his home country.
Horiguchi’s next opponent: Tatsuro Taira
Rizvan Kuniev Breaks Through but Faces Gradual Climb
Rizvan Kuniev scored his inaugural UFC victory, which, while unlikely to win Fight of the Year honors due to its lack of dramatic moments, is crucial for his career trajectory. His win propels him into the top 10 heavyweight rankings, marking a significant milestone. However, the uneventful nature of the fight means the UFC is unlikely to fast-track Kuniev into high-profile bouts immediately.
Looking ahead, the winner between Sergei Spivac and Ante Delija seems to be Kuniev’s best opportunity for a meaningful matchup, allowing him to continue building his reputation in the division.
Kuniev’s potential next opponent: Winner of Spivac vs. Delija
Michal Oleksiejczuk’s Revival and an Important Middleweight Test
Not long ago, Michal Oleksiejczuk faced the threat of a three-fight losing streak that could have ended his UFC tenure. Since then, he has rebounded impressively with three consecutive wins, including the electrifying Fight of the Night victory over Marc-André Barriault. Joining the UFC as a young prospect, Oleksiejczuk’s recent consistency at age 30 signals that he could be reaching his prime.
A matchup against fellow rising middleweight Cam Rowston would serve as an excellent challenge, testing the progress of both fighters and providing an exciting contest for fans.
Oleksiejczuk’s next opponent: Cam Rowston
Farid Basharat’s Unbeaten Streak and Call for Tougher Opposition
Following his brother Javid’s preliminary round win, Farid Basharat ensured the siblings left the Apex victorious. Despite some skepticism about his long-term potential, Basharat maintains an undefeated UFC record with six straight wins. He recently defeated Jean Matsumoto, a tougher opponent than his recent 1-2 record might indicate, adding to a growing list of fighters who have failed to best Basharat.
Long overdue for a ranked opponent, Basharat’s next logical challenge is Vinicius Oliveira—the fighter who lost in the main event—offering a meaningful step forward in competition.
Basharat’s next opponent: Vinicius Oliveira
Dustin Jacoby’s Rebound and Targeted May Fight in Macau
After being knocked out by Dominick Reyes in mid-2024, Dustin Jacoby appeared to be nearing the end of his UFC journey. Instead, he has roared back with three consecutive knockout wins. His latest performance earned recognition from former Glory Kickboxing competitor Alex Poatan Pereira, signaling Jacoby’s resurgence into the contender discussion.
A potential bout against Zhang Mingyang on a late May card in Macau looks like an optimal matchup, offering Jacoby a chance to continue building momentum on a prominent stage.
Jacoby’s next opponent: Zhang Mingyang
Significance and Upcoming Opportunities for UFC Vegas 113 Winners
The fighters victorious at UFC Vegas 113 are positioned at critical junctures in their careers, each facing important decisions about their next opponents. From Bautista seeking a notable rematch, to Horiguchi recalibrating his path amid division chaos, and Kuniev taking steady steps up the heavyweight rankings, the event’s outcomes hint at evolving narratives within the UFC.
These developing matchups will not only influence individual legacies but also shape the competitive landscape across multiple divisions, setting the stage for compelling fights in the months ahead.
