As the UFC continues to lead the world of mixed martial arts, fans have been actively discussing which fighters Dana White should bring into the promotion to strengthen its lineup. The conversation centers around upcoming signings that could enhance competitive balance and excitement in the Octagon, particularly amid perceptions of certain divisions lacking depth.
Among the names frequently mentioned by enthusiasts are Gable Steveson and Dakota Ditcheva, two promising athletes seen as potential game changers for UFC’s heavyweight and women’s flyweight divisions. These calls for signings have come alongside debates on other top prospects competing outside the UFC but attracting attention for future opportunities.
Heavyweight and Women’s Flyweight Divisions Highlighted for Improvement
The UFC heavyweight division is widely regarded as struggling in 2026, prompting fans to propose several recruits to bolster its ranks. Gable Steveson, the 2020 Olympic freestyle wrestling gold medalist who has already recorded three MMA victories, appears repeatedly in fan discussions urging Dana White to secure his talents. Other heavyweight contenders attracting interest include Vadim Nemkov and Rico Verhoeven, although financial aspects have complicated Verhoeven’s potential signing.
In addition to these heavyweight prospects, Dakota Ditcheva—a rising undefeated star in the women’s flyweight division—is frequently named as an essential signing to improve competition and depth in that weight class. The enthusiasm for Ditcheva reflects a broader desire for fresh talent to elevate the women’s roster.
The lightweight division also draws attention, with fans recommending the signing of Usman Nurmagomedov, cousin of Khabib Nurmagomedov and reigning PFL lightweight champion. Supporters envision him as a strong challenger against top UFC fighters like Ilia Topuria.
Some voices from fans expressed these views directly:
“They need Heavyweights badly. 8 billion people on the planet and there’s literally only a handful of good heavyweights between the UFC and PFL.”
Other fan endorsements included: “Any good heavyweights and Dakota.”, “Gable Steveson!”, and “Definitely Dakota!”
On the matter of upcoming competitive battles, another comment said:
“Dakota Ditcheva! Female division needs more real competition.”
Additional suggestions comprised Usman Nurmagomedov and Vadim Nemkov and a note on the difficulty in signing Rico Verhoeven:
“Gable and Rico, but Rico already declined once for boxing money.”
Experts from Bloody Elbow Share Their Fighter Signing Preferences
The discussion extended beyond the fanbase, with the Bloody Elbow staff offering insights into which external fighters the UFC would benefit from signing. Jordan Ellis named Francis Ngannou, emphasizing his potential impact in the heavyweight division.
Harvey Leonard remarked:
If we’re disregarding contractual hurdles, Ditcheva for sure.
Kyle Dimond echoed support for Ditcheva, adding cautious optimism:
Dakota Ditcheva would be incredible in the UFC. I do think that will happen eventually though.
Donagh Corby recommended a trio of fighters, stating:
Usman Nurmagomedov, Paul Hughes or Corey Anderson.
Focusing again on the heavyweight division’s needs, Jamie Theodosi asserted:
Has to be Gable Steveson. The heavyweight division NEEDS it.
What These Potential Signings Mean for UFC’s Future
As Dana White weighs options for expanding and strengthening the UFC roster into 2026, the calls to sign heavyweights like Gable Steveson and emerging women’s flyweights such as Dakota Ditcheva highlight critical areas of interest. These additions could help the UFC address perceived roster weaknesses, particularly in heavyweight and female divisions, ensuring sustained competitiveness and fan engagement.
Bringing in notable names from other organizations like the Professional Fighters League or European circuits would also maintain the UFC’s status as the premier destination for elite mixed martial artists worldwide. How Dana White responds to these suggestions may shape the UFC’s competitive landscape and fan enthusiasm in the coming years.
