The UFC has cut Bekzat Almakhan from its roster. Almakhan debuted in the promotion in 2024 and went on to compete four times, finishing his UFC run on a two-fight losing streak. His most recent outing was a loss to Jean Matsumoto at UFC Baku on June 27.
The UFC has parted ways with featherweight Bekzat Almakhan, cutting the Kazakhstani fighter from its roster on August 13, 2026, following a difficult stint in the promotion.
Almakhan, nicknamed "The Turan Warrior," made his UFC debut in 2024 and compiled four appearances before receiving his release. The 28-year-old from Kazakhstan leaves with an overall professional record of 12-4-0, his final two outings in the promotion ending in defeat. Standing five-foot-seven with a 68-inch reach, Almakhan fought out of an orthodox stance under the Triumph Fights banner. His UFC output reflected a conservative offensive approach, averaging 1.61 significant strikes landed per minute at a 34 percent striking accuracy rate, while generating virtually no grappling activity in terms of takedowns or submission attempts.
His final UFC appearance came on June 27 at UFC Baku, where he suffered a loss to Jean Matsumoto. The 26-year-old Brazilian had proven a formidable final test, carrying an 18-2-0 record into that contest and bringing a high-volume striking game averaging 5.37 significant strikes landed per minute. Matsumoto also offers a threat on the ground, averaging three takedowns per 15 minutes along with some submission activity.
Why it matters
- Almakhan exits after going 2-2 in the UFC, with momentum lost over his final two bouts
- A 34 percent striking accuracy rate and minimal grappling output left him little margin for error against more well-rounded opponents
- At 28, he retains time to rebuild his profile on the regional circuit and pursue a future return to the world's premier MMA organization
