Youssef Zalal to headline UFC event for first time this weekend

Youssef Zalal will headline a UFC event for the first time in his career this weekend. The Moroccan fighter debuted in the UFC in 2020, winning his first three bouts before suffering three losses and one draw. He then competed in the American promotion Sparta, securing three first-round finishes. Returning to the UFC in 2024, Zalal earned three submission victories before defeating ranked opponents Calvin Kattar by decision and Josh Emmett by first-round armbar. The 29-year-old is currently ranked number seven at featherweight, positioned just behind Jian Silva, and a victory over Sterling would move him into the top five.