Youssef Zalal to headline first UFC event after impressive comeback run

Moroccan fighter Youssef Zalal will headline a UFC event this weekend, marking the first time he has topped a card in his career. The 29-year-old debuted in the UFC in 2020, winning his first three fights before suffering three losses and a draw. After leaving for the American promotion Sparta, Zalal earned three first-round finishes before returning to the UFC in 2024. Since his return, he has won three consecutive fights by submission, defeated ranked opponent Calvin Kattar by decision, and submitted Josh Emmett with an armbar in the first round. Zalal is currently ranked number seven in the featherweight division, positioned directly behind Jai Silva, and could enter the top five with a victory over Sterling this weekend.