Islam Omarov (17-0 MMA, 10-0 ACA) has left ACA following the expiration of his contract. During his ten-fight run in the promotion, he successfully defended the featherweight title three times, finishing all three title defenses by submission within two rounds. Omarov has stated that his goal is now to sign with the UFC and that he will do everything necessary to make it happen.
Islam Omarov has parted ways with Absolute Championship Akhmat after his contract expired, the unbeaten featherweight champion announced on July 17, 2026, with his sights now set firmly on the UFC.
Omarov exits ACA with a perfect professional record of 17-0, having gone 10-0 inside the promotion. His tenure there was defined by dominance at featherweight, where he captured the title and defended it three times without ever being seriously threatened. All three of those championship defenses ended by submission, each inside two rounds, underscoring a finishing ability that has become his calling card throughout his undefeated run.
In departing, Omarov made his intentions clear, stating that signing with the UFC is his primary objective and that he intends to do everything in his power to make that move happen.
Why it matters
- A 17-0 record with ten ACA appearances and three submission title defenses inside two rounds represents a compelling résumé for UFC matchmakers to evaluate.
- The featherweight division at 145 pounds is one of the most competitive in the sport, meaning any newcomer would face an immediate step up in competition.
- Omarov's submission-heavy finishing rate gives him a marketable style that tends to attract promotional interest.
