French fighter Fares Ziam has officially announced he has signed a new contract with the UFC. According to his statement, this marks his fourth contract signing with the promotion. Ziam expressed gratitude to those who believed in him and indicated this is not the end of his journey but rather the beginning of something significant. The announcement suggests continued commitment from both the fighter and the organization to their partnership.
French lightweight Fares Ziam has announced he has signed a new contract with the UFC, marking his fourth consecutive deal with the promotion as of April 7, 2026.
Ziam, known by his nickname "Smile Killer," competes at lightweight and carries an 18-4 record into this new chapter with the organization. The 29-year-old Frenchman trains out of Kill Cliff FC and brings a well-rounded orthodox game to the octagon, standing six-foot-one with a 75-inch reach. He lands 2.85 significant strikes per minute at a 51 percent accuracy rate, and supplements his striking with 1.62 takedowns per 15 minutes, showing the kind of versatile skill set that has kept him active and relevant in one of the UFC's most competitive divisions.
In announcing the signing, Ziam expressed gratitude toward those who have supported him throughout his career, framing the new contract not as a milestone to be celebrated and set aside, but as the start of something more meaningful ahead.
Why it matters
- Four consecutive UFC contracts signal strong organizational faith in Ziam as a lightweight contender
- At just 29, Ziam is entering what is typically a fighter's physical prime, giving this deal added significance
- His blend of accurate striking and consistent takedown threat makes him a dangerous stylistic opponent at 155 pounds
- Continued development within Kill Cliff FC, one of MMA's elite training programs, positions him for a potential ranking push
