MMA enthusiasts have enjoyed another thrilling year filled with spectacular knockouts and smart submissions. Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable years ever for the sport. The UFC plans to hold an event at the White House, Conor McGregor is expected to make his highly anticipated comeback, and the traditional pay-per-view model might nearly vanish thanks to the $7.7 billion deal with Paramount.
There are plenty of upcoming developments that remain unknown for now, but let’s explore some bold predictions for MMA in 2026 from the writers at Bloody Elbow.
Jordan Ellis believes Ronda Rousey will make her comeback in 2026. Although rumors have circulated throughout 2025, her return seems certain within the next year. While it’s unclear if she’ll fight in the UFC or MMA specifically, she will compete in some form.
Prediction: Ronda Rousey returns to competition.
Until Kobe predicts that if Islam Makhachev keeps up his activity with minimal weight cuts, Ian Machado Garry won’t need to chase the title aggressively—he can patiently wait his turn. Having already beaten Shavkat Rakhmonov and several top-ranked opponents, Garry possesses the height, striking skills, and takedown defense to build on Dustin Poirier’s near-success against Makhachev.
Prediction: Ian Machado Garry captures UFC gold.
Jamie Theodosi foresaw Joe Rogan starting to step back from UFC commentary in 2025 and boldly predicts that 2026 will mark Rogan’s full retirement from the organization.
Prediction: Joe Rogan retires from UFC.
Kyle Dimond expects Kayla Harrison to retire in 2026 as Fighter of the Year. Although she only fought once in 2025, she is rumored to face Amanda Nunes early next year. A win there could secure her a prestigious White House event fight with Valentina Shevchenko. After taking fights against two all-time greats, Harrison is predicted to finish the year battling Larissa Pacheco, the only woman to have defeated Shevchenko.
Prediction: Kayla Harrison earns Fighter of the Year honors.
Harvey Leonard predicts a surprising loss for middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev in 2026, with Anthony Hernandez handing him his first defeat. Though Chimaev has been dominant, his endurance and performance against lesser opponents have shown vulnerabilities. Hernandez, known for maintaining intensity, will likely dethrone Chimaev and claim the middleweight title.
Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev suffers a shocking defeat.
Fan Take: These predictions hint at a dynamic and transformative year for MMA in 2026, signaling major comebacks, shifts in title reigns, and legendary retirements. For fans, this means more excitement, evolving rivalries, and new stars rising to shape the future of the sport.
