Jailton Almeida breaks silence on UFC release: ‘It’s not these two losses that will define who I am’
MMA Fighting
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jailton Almeida, known as "Malhadinho," has been released from his UFC contract following back-to-back losses to Alexander Volkov and Rizvan Kuniev. Despite these defeats, Almeida remains optimistic and is already looking ahead to new opportunities in the sport. In a heartfelt message on social media, he thanked fans and UFC staff for their support during his 11-fight tenure, which included eight wins and four "Performance of the Night" bonuses.
Almeida's career with the UFC saw him secure victories in seven of his fights, showcasing his striking skills and earning recognition. However, a lackluster performance in his main event win over Derrick Lewis and subsequent defeats impacted his standing within the organization. Despite expressing interest in returning to light heavyweight, the back-to-back losses ultimately led to his release.
Reflecting on his recent setbacks, Almeida emphasized that these two losses do not define him. He reaffirmed his dedication, focus, and determination, highlighting his humility as a defining trait. His manager, Leonardo Pateira, revealed that multiple MMA promotions have reached out with new opportunities since the news broke, suggesting a potential announcement in the near future.
Almeida's resilience and positive outlook resonate with fans of mixed martial arts, who appreciate his transparency and commitment to the sport. As he transitions to new challenges, the 34-year-old fighter continues to inspire with his passion for MMA. His story not only reflects the highs and lows of a UFC journey but also underscores the perseverance required to stay relevant in the competitive world of sports.
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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/20/2026