The UFC has decided to release Jailton Almeida, a competitor in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions, following a series of disappointing outcomes. Almeida’s recent performances culminated in a unanimous decision loss to Rizvan Kuniev on Saturday, where he struggled significantly, managing only 31 significant strikes over three rounds. This came after a prior defeat to Alexander Volkov, during which Almeida landed a mere nine significant strikes.
Two Consecutive Setbacks Lead to UFC Release
After back-to-back underwhelming performances, insider MMA journalist Laerte Viana confirmed on social media that the UFC has chosen to part ways with Almeida.
“I just confirmed that the UFC made the decision this afternoon. Malhadinho leaves the organization after eight wins in 11 fights,”
Viana reported on X. Almeida’s release is unexpected, as he maintained a top-ten ranking at heavyweight, positioned eighth, but the promotion opted to move forward without him following his recent losses.
Plans to Drop Back to Light Heavyweight Cut Short
Following his defeat at UFC Vegas 113, Almeida announced his intention to return to the light heavyweight division. His managers, Tiago Okamura and Leonardo Pateira, told MMA Fighting that Almeida had already notified the UFC of his plan to compete again at 205 pounds. Despite these intentions, Almeida will not have the opportunity to drop weight under the UFC banner, due to the termination of his contract.
Career Highlights and Recent Fight History
Jailton Almeida’s last fight at light heavyweight was his UFC debut in February 2022, where he secured a knockout win against Danilo Marques in under three minutes. Since then, Almeida competed mostly at heavyweight or catchweight bouts, compiling a professional record of 22 wins and 5 losses, with an eight-win, three-loss UFC record. Before his current struggles, Almeida recorded a first-round TKO over Serghei Spivac and a first-round submission of Alexandr Romanov. He also headlined two UFC events, defeating Derrick Lewis by decision and submitting Jairzinho Rozenstruik. His other setbacks include a TKO loss to Curtis Blaydes, though his notable victories also include a win over Shamil Abdurakhimov.
Impact of Almeida’s Release on the UFC Landscape
Almeida’s departure represents a significant decision by the UFC, removing a fighter who had shown promise and held notable wins at heavyweight. The release highlights the high-pressure environment where consistent performance is crucial, particularly for fighters with fluctuating results. Fans and analysts alike are left to ponder how the heavyweight division will shift without Almeida as a contender. The UFC now continues to focus on other rising and established fighters to fill the ranks in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight classes.
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
