With Mohammed Usman out, Ex-UFC title challenger replaces him in Gamebred FC heavyweight tournament
MMA Fighting
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gamebred FC’s April 10 heavyweight tournament in the Dominican Republic has seen a significant change as former UFC champion Mohammed Usman exits due to an 18-month doping suspension. In his place, former UFC light heavyweight title challenger Thiago Santos has been added to face Guto Inocente in a key opening-round matchup. This shift comes after Usman’s release from the UFC following his anti-doping violation, leaving Santos to step into the spotlight.
Santos, who last fought in 2024 against Denis Goltsov in the PFL, now aims to rebound from a career slump marked by a 1-7 record since his near-upset of Jon Jones at UFC 239. Known for his explosive striking and tenacity, Santos’ return could be a pivotal moment for him to regain momentum in his MMA career.
The tournament also features other notable names like Anthony Smith, who is making his return from retirement to face Chase Sherman. The event, which offers a $500k prize purse, will air live on Masvidal’s YouTube channel, ensuring global visibility for the stacked lineup of fights.
For sports and MMA enthusiasts, this development highlights the dynamic nature of combat sports where opportunities can shift quickly. Santos’ chance to prove himself against Inocente adds intrigue to an already compelling tournament, while Usman’s suspension underscores the ongoing challenges fighters face with anti-doping policies in the sport. The event promises to deliver high-octane action and potential upsets, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Verticals
sportsmma
Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/25/2026