As the UFC continues to deliver high-level competition across multiple divisions, fans and analysts alike are looking ahead to potential rematches that could shape the promotional calendar in 2026. With unfinished business, close contests, and shifting rankings, the following five matchups stand out as bouts with compelling storylines and competitive intrigue.
First, Tom Aspinall versus Ciryl Gane is a heavyweight rematch with strong appeal. Their initial encounter provided a showcase of athleticism and technique rare in the division. With both fighters maintaining top contender status, a second meeting could help clarify the path to a unified championship.
Next, Petr Yan and Sean O’Malley remain a compelling pair in the bantamweight division. Their first bout drew attention for its pace and disputed outcome, sparking debate among fans and analysts. A rematch would allow both athletes to settle the score and potentially solidify their positions at the top of the 135-pound weight class.
In the women’s flyweight division, Valentina Shevchenko and Amanda Nunes have shared the Octagon twice before, but a third fight could carry historical significance. With both former champions having established dominance in their respective divisions, another meeting would serve as a final chapter between two of the most accomplished fighters in women’s MMA history—provided Nunes decides to return from retirement.
The featherweight landscape could also see a high-stakes rematch between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway. Topuria’s rise through the ranks brought fresh energy to the division, while Holloway, a former champion, remains a perennial threat. Their contrasting styles and competitive spirits make a rematch both entertaining and strategically significant.
Lastly, a revisit of the clash between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan could offer one of the most technical bouts of the year. Their original contest was closely contested and showcased Tsarukyan’s potential, even in defeat. With both fighters developing further since then, a second encounter carries the potential to impact the lightweight title picture.
As the UFC’s 2026 calendar takes shape, these matchups are among the most anticipated for their blend of narrative depth, divisional stakes, and stylistic intrigue.
