In 2026, MMA experts discuss the potential for UFC title changes, highlighting the unpredictability of champions retaining their titles, with fighters like Alexander Volkanovski, Tom Aspinall, and Valentina Shevchenko in focus, while also considering dark horse candidates like Bo Nickal and Alexia Thainara for potential title runs.
2026 is here! We’re just a few weeks away from the next UFC event, so let’s take a peek into the future.
MMA’s unpredictability keeps us on our toes, and 2025 was no exception. Ten out of eleven UFC titles swapped hands at least once, with Valentina Shevchenko being the only champion to hold her title all year. It’s doubtful we’ll see a repeat, but expecting all current champions to stay put until 2027? That’s a stretch.
Who’s likely to lose their belt this year? Who’s got the best shot at a surprise title run, like Joshua Van did? Join MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Alexander K. Lee as they dive into 2026 predictions.
Which UFC champion is most likely to lose their title in 2026? Joshua Van’s win at UFC 323 over Alexandre Pantoja was solid, but I’m not convinced he’s the top flyweight. The beauty of MMA is that Van could prove me wrong in just a couple of fights.
With Pantoja set to return, Van faces a tough challenge. But he might have to deal with Manel Kape or Tatsuro Taira first—both formidable opponents.
Meshew’s pick? Alexander Volkanovski. Despite being an all-time great, he’s 37 now. Last year, he reclaimed the featherweight title, but age and recent KO losses are catching up with him.
Volkanovski’s rematch with Lopes is looming. While he’s favored, another year might tip the scales against him. Father Time remains undefeated.
Tom Aspinall’s heavyweight reign is precarious. Heavyweight chaos means he’s always a slip away from losing his belt. Plus, his eye injury could sideline him, and the UFC won’t hesitate to strip him if he can’t fight.
Now, who’s most likely to retain their title in 2026? Heck picks Tom Aspinall, despite the risks. The UFC might set up an interim title fight, but Aspinall could still come out on top if he returns.
Islam Makhachev is another strong contender to hold onto his belt. With no plans to move up a weight class, he might face a manageable schedule, possibly even a fight with Kamaru Usman.
Kayla Harrison is expected to keep rolling, barring a surprise retirement. A potential fight with Amanda Nunes could be her next big challenge, but the division lacks compelling contenders.
Which dark horse might snag a title in 2026? Heck suggests Valentina Shevchenko, not as flyweight champ, but as the 135-pound champion. With potential matchups against Harrison or Nunes, she’s got a shot.
Bo Nickal is another name to watch. With talent and UFC backing, he’s poised for opportunities. A big win could set him up for a title fight by year’s end.
Expect a flurry of title changes this year. Names like Arman Tsarukyan, Umar Nurmagomedov, and Natalia Silva are all in the mix. But keep an eye on strawweight Alexia Thainara. She’s flying under the radar but could challenge Zhang Weili soon.
In MMA, the future is always uncertain, but that’s what makes it so thrilling. Let’s see who rises and who falls in 2026!