A bold move has been made by former UFC heavyweight contender Jailton Almeida, as he has chosen to revive his MMA career in Russia, snubbing other prominent promotions like PFL along the way. This decision has sparked curiosity and controversy in the MMA world.
The Russian Revival
Almeida, a 34-year-old Brazilian fighter, has signed a four-fight contract with Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA), a Russian-based promotion. Despite his impressive record of eight wins and three losses in the UFC, with seven finishes in those victories, Almeida's recent lackluster performances seemed to seal his fate with the UFC.
But here's where it gets interesting: Almeida had multiple offers on the table, including a lucrative one from Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), which was promoting the highly anticipated Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano event. MVP offered Almeida a chance to face former UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos, an opportunity that many fighters would jump at.
However, Almeida stayed true to his word and opted for the ACA deal. This choice not only ensures a fresh start for Almeida but also positions him for a potential title shot in the near future.
The current ACA heavyweight champion, Alikhan Vakhaev, reclaimed his title in November 2025. A match-up between Vakhaev and Almeida would undoubtedly be a blockbuster in the promotion's heavyweight division.
And this is the part most people miss: Almeida leaves the UFC with notable victories over Derrick Lewis, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, Alexandr Romanov, and Serghei Spivac. These wins showcase his skill and potential, especially considering that his most recent victory was against Spivac.
Now, with a two-fight losing streak behind him, Almeida is seeking a new beginning overseas. His decision to join ACA has divided opinions, with some questioning his choice and others applauding his loyalty. It's a move that will undoubtedly shape his legacy in the sport.
What do you think? Is Almeida making a smart career move, or has he made a mistake by turning down other offers? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this intriguing development in the world of MMA!
