A last-minute welterweight matchup has been confirmed for UFC 332, scheduled for next Saturday evening. According to MMAMania.com, rising welterweight Jacobe Smith is set to return to the Octagon to face UFC newcomer Bruce Whitehead, a pairing that has left many MMA enthusiasts puzzled.
Heavy’s Marcel Dorff also verified that the fight will take place at UFC 332, contested at the welterweight limit of 170 pounds.
Jacobe Smith: A Promising Welterweight Prospect
Smith, 30, remains undefeated and is known for his aggressive style, finishing 10 out of his 12 victories by stoppage. Originally a competitor in Fury FC, Smith earned his UFC contract after a TKO win on Dana White’s Contender Series in October 2024. Since joining the UFC, he has secured three straight wins, all finishes, against Preston Parsons, Niko Price, and Josiah Harrell.
Smith was initially slated to fight Kevin Holland at UFC Oklahoma City in July, but that bout fell through. Holland has since been rebooked to face Uros Medic at UFC 334. While Holland’s upcoming match pits him against a top welterweight contender, Smith will now face newcomer Whitehead, a decision that seems aimed more at keeping Smith active rather than competitive matchmaking. Regardless, this fight offers Smith another opportunity to gain experience, earn a paycheck, and potentially pick up a performance bonus.
Bruce Whitehead Making His UFC Debut
At 29 years old, Whitehead holds an 8-2 professional record, finishing five of those wins by stoppage. He has fought exclusively in Fury FC, a known pipeline for UFC talent. Whitehead comes into this fight on a roll, having won four of his last five bouts—including a recent quick knockout at Fury FC 124, where he finished his opponent in just 48 seconds on September 20.
Despite Whitehead’s momentum, Smith is expected to be an overwhelming favorite, possibly with odds near -1000, similar to his previous fight against Niko Price.
Fan Take: This unexpected booking keeps an exciting prospect like Jacobe Smith active, which is crucial for his development in the UFC. For fans, it’s intriguing to see a hot newcomer like Whitehead thrown into the mix, offering a potential breakout moment that could shake up the welterweight landscape.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
