Leon Edwards

We’re nearly at the end of 2026, and some of the biggest names in the UFC are still nowhere to be found. Whether it’s injuries, contract disputes, personal reasons, or simply a lack of bookings, these fighters have yet to make an appearance inside the Octagon this year. With less than three months left in 2026, the clock is ticking for these fighters to make their return. Who are you most surprised hasn’t fought this year, and who do you think we’ll see back first #ufc #mma #michaelmorales #leonedwards #yairrodriguez

Morales, Rodriguez

Leon Edwards is a former UFC welterweight champion and one of only three British fighters ever to hold UFC gold. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in Birmingham, the southpaw built a 13-fight unbeaten streak on precision striking, sharp kicks and composed fight IQ. That run included a dominant UFC 263 decision over Nate Diaz in June 2021, despite Diaz rocking him with a devastating left in a relentless final round. On the James English podcast, Edwards revealed his Jamaican mother was so panicked watching that she opened her window and screamed for help. He won the title with a spectacular head-kick knockout of Kamaru Usman, and in 2026, he continues chasing a return to mixed martial arts’ championship picture. #ufc #mma #jamesenglish #leonedwards #funny

Diaz