Youssef Zalal to headline UFC event for first time this weekend

Moroccan fighter Youssef Zalal will headline a UFC card for the first time in his career this weekend. The 29-year-old debuted in the UFC in 2020, winning his first three fights before experiencing a rough patch with three losses and a draw. After leaving for the American promotion Sparta and securing three first-round finishes, Zalal returned to the UFC in 2024 with renewed success. He has since earned three submission victories and defeated ranked opponents Calvin Kattar by decision and Josh Emmett via first-round armbar. Currently ranked number 7 at featherweight, Zalal sits just behind Dzan Silva in the rankings and could break into the top 5 with a victory over Sterling.