The excitement in the MMA world ramps up as the 2026 UFC event schedule unfolds. Following Conor McGregor's disappointing return at UFC 329, the promotion swiftly moves to Oklahoma City for a highly anticipated middleweight clash between Dricus du Plessis and Kamaru Usman.

Kamaru Usman makes his return to the middleweight division, having had ample time to prepare compared to his previous short-notice debut against Khamzat Chimaev. On the other hand, Dricus du Plessis hasn't stepped into the octagon since losing his middleweight title to Chimaev last year. With Sean Strickland regaining the 185-pound championship, both fighters have a chance to re-establish themselves as top contenders.

In another exciting event scheduled for a month later, Islam Makhachev, a standout fighter and prized pupil of Khabib Nurmagomedov, will defend his welterweight title against rising star Ian Machado Garry. This event marks the promotion's return to Philadelphia and will feature a second title fight, showcasing women’s strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern against Gillian Robertson.

UFC fans can look forward to a thrilling year ahead, with more details on upcoming events set to be announced. Be sure to stay tuned for updates throughout the year!