Jacqueline Cavalcanti

UFC.com published the first part of its 2026 “Fighters on the Rise” feature, spotlighting names such as Mansur Abdul-Malik, Jacqueline Cavalcanti, and Melquizael Costa. The article positions these fighters as up-and-coming prospects or ascending contenders based on their recent win streaks and division movement. It matters because UFC promotional features like this often hint at which athletes may receive stronger booking support next. The next thing to watch is whether any of the highlighted fighters get matched into higher-profile fights in the second half of the year.

Melquizael CostaMansur Abdul-MalikJacqueline Cavalcanti

The UFC published a feature on fighters poised to break out in the second half of 2026, spotlighting several names across multiple divisions. Among the highlighted fighters were Mansur Abdul-Malik, Jacqueline Cavalcanti, Melquizael Costa, Islam Dulatov, Carli Judice, Fatima Kline, David Martinez, and Denise Gomes. The piece matters less as a booking update and more as a sign of who the promotion sees as potential future movement-makers in their weight classes. The article points toward several fighters likely to receive higher-profile bouts later in the year.

Melquizael CostaFatima KlineMansur Abdul-MalikDavid Martinez+4

UFC.com published its 2026 breakout-fighter feature, highlighting athletes the promotion believes could make major jumps this year. The list included Mansur Abdul-Malik, Jacqueline Cavalcanti, Melquizael Costa, Islam Dulatov, and David Martinez, among others, with the piece emphasizing recent winning streaks, divisional movement, and developmental upside. While not a fight booking item, it is relevant for tracking who the UFC is positioning as emerging talent across several weight classes. The practical next step for these fighters is to convert that promotional momentum into ranked wins and higher-profile matchups.

Melquizael CostaMansur Abdul-MalikDavid MartinezJacqueline Cavalcanti+1