Brazilian heavyweight contender Jailton Almeida has been released from his UFC contract after suffering two consecutive losses. The announcement came less than a week after Almeida lost a decision to Rizvan Kuniev, marking a downturn in his UFC career.
Details Behind Almeida’s UFC Release and Recent Performance
At 34 years old, Almeida’s release was first reported by Laerte Viana on X, confirming the 8-3 UFC fighter’s separation from the promotion. This marked the end of a promising run that saw Almeida start his UFC journey with an 8-1 record before his recent setbacks. His previous defeat was a split decision loss to Alexander Volkov in October, signaling a challenging phase for the athlete.
Career Highlights and Rankings Before Release
Before the losing streak, Almeida was regarded as a potential title contender in the heavyweight division, climbing as high as No. 6 in the UFC’s rankings. Since 2018, he held an impressive overall record of 17-1, with his only defeat during that period coming against Curtis Blaydes, who currently holds the No. 4 spot. Notable victories include wins over Derrick Lewis, Serghei Spivac, and Jairzinho Rozenstruik, reaffirming his status as a formidable competitor.
Future Plans and Weight Division Shift
Following the recent bout with Kuniev, Almeida’s manager disclosed that the fighter plans to move back down to the light-heavyweight division. While the next fight is likely to occur at 205 pounds, it appears the match may take place outside of the UFC jurisdiction, indicating a possible new chapter in his career.
Understanding the Impact of Almeida’s UFC Departure
Almeida’s release illustrates the competitive nature of the heavyweight division and the UFC’s criteria for retaining talent, especially when recent performances fail to meet expectations. As the veteran returns to a lower weight class, his future endeavors could redefine his career trajectory, potentially opening doors in other promotions or divisions. His notable wins and previous ranking success underscore that his departure is a significant development in MMA circles.
Acabei de apurar que o UFC tomou a decisão na tarde de hoje. Malhadinho deixa a organização após oito vitórias em 11 lutas. Já adianto que achei a decisão bizarra. E vocês? pic.twitter.com/BubHLKd30z
— Laerte Viana (@laertevianamma) February 12, 2026
