Brazilian heavyweight fighter Jailton Almeida has parted ways with the UFC after a defeat against Rizvan Kuniev at UFC Vegas 113 earlier this month. Shortly after, Almeida chose to sign with Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA), Russia’s leading MMA promotion, foregoing an opportunity to fight in a UFC co-main event. The shift marks a significant turn in Almeida’s career as he embarks on the next chapter outside the UFC.
Turning Down a High-Profile UFC Opportunity for ACA
Before his UFC release, Almeida was reportedly offered the co-main event slot against former UFC heavyweight champion Junior Dos Santos, scheduled to feature alongside the star-studded Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano superfight. This high-profile bout would have placed Almeida under intense scrutiny and spotlight due to Dos Santos’ legacy and the nostalgic appeal of the event. However, Almeida declined this chance, opting instead to join ACA’s heavyweight roster, fueled by expectations of revitalizing his career in the Russian promotion.
Jailton Almeida Was Offered The Co Main Event Spot To Fight Junior Dos Santos on MVP For The Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Super Fight But Ultimately Turned It Down For ACA,
– Kevin, MMA content creator ‘Kevin’ of Krazy Kev MMA
Career Overview and Recent Struggles in the UFC
At 34, Almeida has had a relatively strong run in the UFC, achieving eight wins in eleven bouts, with seven of those victories ending by stoppage. Despite this, his recent performances showed a decline, culminating in back-to-back losses to Alexander Volkov and Rizvan Kuniev. These setbacks, combined with a perceived lack of entertainment value in his fighting style, reportedly influenced the UFC’s decision to release him. Almeida’s UFC losses also include Curtis Blaydes, highlighting the tough competition he faced within the division.
The cut-throat nature of UFC’s roster management has seen several promising fighters released in recent months, including Rinat Fakhretdinov, who left undefeated in the promotion, and Javid Basharat, despite winning his latest fight. This trend underscores the promotion’s increasing emphasis on entertainment value and constant roster refreshment through Dana White’s Contender Series.
Uncertainty Surrounds Almeida’s Debut and Future in ACA
The details of Almeida’s debut in ACA, such as the opponent and event location, remain undisclosed. The current ACA heavyweight champion, Alikhan Vakhaev, last competed in November, and Almeida’s path could lead toward challenging for this title. Facing Vakhaev would present a prominent opportunity within ACA’s heavyweight division, offering Almeida a fresh platform to demonstrate his skills.
Had Almeida chosen to remain in UFC, a bout against Junior Dos Santos would have been a defining test against a former champion who once dominated the heavyweight scene and claimed victory over fighters like Derrick Lewis. For now, however, Almeida pursues a new trajectory in ACA, which might serve as a critical stage for his career redevelopment.
Jailton Almeida’s Response to Being Released by UFC
Following the announcement of his release, Almeida addressed his fans and supporters on social media, expressing gratitude and reflecting on his UFC journey. Speaking in Portuguese, he acknowledged his 11 fights under the organization, including four Performance of the Night awards, while emphasizing that recent losses would not define him.
It’s not these two losses that will define who I am. I’m a dedicated, focused, determined guy. Humble, as I’ve always been.
Despite his achievements, Almeida’s fighting style did not align with UFC president Dana White’s preferences, particularly after his bout with Alexander Volkov at UFC 321. Almeida’s message revealed both appreciation for the UFC staff and a determination to continue progressing in his career outside the promotion.
The Larger Context of UFC’s Evolving Fighter Policies
Almeida’s departure highlights a recent shift in UFC’s operational approach, characterized by stricter roster cuts and a stronger focus on marketability and entertaining performances. Notable fighters of considerable skill and undefeated records have also experienced releases. This environment creates challenging conditions for veterans like Almeida, whose solid but less flashy performances no longer guarantee a sustained position.
In response, fighters are increasingly exploring other organizations such as ACA, which offer alternative opportunities and competitive platforms. For Almeida, joining ACA could represent both a chance to regain momentum and to compete against a different pool of contenders under new conditions.
What the Future May Hold for Jailton Almeida
Jailton Almeida’s transition to ACA comes amid uncertainty regarding his immediate fight schedule but opens doors to potentially significant matchups, including a title pursuit against Alikhan Vakhaev. While fans may wonder if Almeida will return to the UFC in the future, his current focus will likely be on reestablishing himself as an elite heavyweight within ACA’s ranks. His decision to reject a UFC co-main event spot underscores a confidence in his path forward, even as the heavyweight division experiences notable shifts.
As MMA continues to evolve, Almeida’s move reflects the ongoing dynamics between promotions, where fighters seek environments that align with their career goals and offer visibility. His upcoming fights in ACA will be closely watched to gauge whether this change will rejuvenate his fighting trajectory.
Jailton Almeida Was Offered The Co Main Event Spot To Fight Junior Dos Santos on MVP For The Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Super Fight But Ultimately Turned It Down For ACA pic.twitter.com/vfUIbn2Sav
— Kevin (@realkevink) February 21, 2026
