Mikey Musumeci has officially pulled out of his highly anticipated rematch with Geo Martinez – but not due to injury or scheduling conflict.
Instead, the reason points to something potentially much bigger: a major UFC-backed project that could finally bring professional Jiu-Jitsu into the spotlight in a way fans have been waiting for.
Musumeci shared the update recently, stating that the rematch is off due to a “huge project” the UFC has planned with him.
While details remain scarce, the news have reignited speculation about the UFC’s long-rumored expansion into grappling.
This rematch would have marked just Musumeci’s second appearance since signing an exclusive contract with the UFC nearly a year ago, a move that initially sent shockwaves through the Jiu-Jitsu world as a possible signal of change in the sport’s professional landscape.
But since his dominant debut against Felipe Machado at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 9, the partnership has seen little follow-up.
Early news hinted that the UFC was working behind the scenes on a dedicated grappling league.
Though the organization made no formal announcements, signs began to emerge.
Dana White made a passing reference to a potential grappling reality show, and not long after, Kade Ruotolo casually revealed in an interview that Musumeci would be coaching opposite Gordon Ryan.
As 2025 hits its halfway point, the promised $10 million investment into Jiu-Jitsu by the UFC still hasn’t materialized in any public-facing way.
Events like UFC Fight Pass Invitational 11 continue in their usual format, and fans have been left wondering whether the league was ever more than hype.
However, Musumeci’s withdrawal for an undisclosed UFC project might be the clearest sign yet that something larger is finally about to unfold.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
