In a thrilling matchup at UFC Fight Night 272 held at Meta APEX in Las Vegas on April 4, 2026, Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev showcased his skills by defeating Brendson Ribeiro via submission in the first round. This victory marks a significant milestone, bringing Yakhyaev’s professional MMA record to an impressive 9-0.
The fight began with Yakhyaev absorbing a few punches from Ribeiro, but he quickly turned the tide by executing a takedown. He secured a rear-naked choke at 2:52 of Round 1, demonstrating his grappling prowess. Prior to the fight, Yakhyaev was a substantial betting favorite at -1600, reflecting the expectations surrounding his performance.
This latest win continues Yakhyaev’s trend of finishing fights early; he has completed all but one of his career victories in the first round. Notably, all three of his opponents in the UFC have succumbed to first-round finishes, further establishing his dominance in the octagon.
At just 25 years old, Yakhyaev is already making waves in the UFC, currently holding a 2-0 record in the organization. His ability to finish fights early not only excites fans but also positions him as a formidable contender in the lightweight division.
After the fight, Yakhyaev expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “I’m really happy. We made a plan to finish in the first round and we did it.” His confidence is palpable, and he remains eager for future challenges, adding, “It doesn’t matter who is next. I just want to fight.”
As Yakhyaev continues to rise through the ranks, the MMA community is keenly watching his progress. With each fight, he solidifies his reputation as a fighter to watch, and fans are left wondering who his next opponent will be.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential matchups, but one thing is clear: Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev is a name that is quickly becoming synonymous with success in the UFC.