French lightweight Fares Ziam has announced the signing of a new contract with the UFC, marking his fourth agreement with the promotion. In his statement, Ziam expressed gratitude to those who believed in him and indicated this is only the beginning of something greater. The post did not disclose specific details about the terms or duration of the new contract. Ziam has been competing in the UFC's lightweight division and this renewal signals the organization's continued interest in his career. Fans are encouraged to expect more exciting performances from the French fighter.
Fares Ziam has signed a new contract with the UFC, the French lightweight confirmed publicly on April 7, 2026. The deal marks his fourth agreement with the promotion, underscoring the organization's ongoing confidence in the 29-year-old fighter.
Ziam, who competes under the nickname "Smile Killer," carries an 18-4-0 professional record and trains out of Kill Cliff FC. Standing six-foot-one with a 75-inch reach, the orthodox striker has built a reputation as a consistent presence in the lightweight division. He lands 2.85 significant strikes per minute at a 51 percent accuracy rate, and adds a wrestling dimension to his game with 1.62 takedowns per 15 minutes. In announcing the signing, Ziam expressed gratitude to those who have supported him and framed the new contract as the beginning of something larger, rather than a milestone in itself.
Why it matters
- A fourth UFC contract signals genuine long-term investment in Ziam from the promotion
- At just 29, the French fighter is entering what is typically a lightweight's prime competitive window
- His blend of accurate striking and takedown ability makes him a stylistically versatile threat in a deep 155-pound division
