The Next Wave: Five UFC Prospects You Might Not Have Heard of Yet but Should Be Watching
The UFC is filled with big names, but some of its brightest prospects remain under the radar, for now. As 2026 approaches, several young fighters are quietly stacking victories, sharpening skills, and proving they deserve more attention. They may not headline cards yet, but their momentum suggests that could happen sooner than expected. Keep these five in mind, because they aren’t just prospects; they might quickly be major players in their divisions.
One of the brightest among them is Jean Matsumoto, a 25-year-old Brazilian bantamweight whose rise has been impossible to ignore. Since joining the UFC in 2023, Matsumoto has impressed with his calm composure and slick grappling, earning wins over Brad Katona and Dan Argueta. His ground game is smooth and technical, but it’s his ability to transition seamlessly from striking to submissions that makes him stand out. With just one razor-close loss to veteran Rob Font, Matsumoto looks like a fighter who could soon break into the rankings if he continues to refine his striking.
A newer face to watch is Imanol Rodriguez, who recently earned a UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series. At just 25 years old, he showcased serious explosiveness with a second-round knockout over Roque Conceição. Rodriguez combines power with improving fight IQ, mixing offense and defense in a way that suggests maturity beyond his record. With thunder in his hands and a well-rounded base, he could be one of the next breakout stars at lightweight.
Tatsuro Taira continues to impress at flyweight, especially when under pressure. His grappling remains his most potent weapon, but his striking defense and composure are improving with each outing. He fights with patience, confidence, and a growing sense of rhythm, making him increasingly complex to deal with. If he strings together wins over ranked opponents, he could soon find himself in title conversations.
From the women’s side, Luana Santos is a name on the rise. Her blend of submissions and sharp stand-up makes her dangerous anywhere the fight goes. She’s still refining her style, but a few more wins could push her into the top 15. Santos’s versatility and composure mark her as one to watch closely.
The beauty of this new generation is that it’s not just about skill, but evolution. These fighters are redefining what it means to be well-rounded, blending multiple disciplines with a confidence that feels distinctly modern. They train with championship standards before ever touching the top fifteen, setting the stage for an even deeper, more dynamic roster. As some of the UFC’s most infamous veterans fade, this new blood ensures the UFC’s future remains just as thrilling as its past.
