Zabit Magomedsharipov is officially coming back.
The former UFC featherweight contender has signed with ACBJJ and is set to compete again in professional combat sports for the first time in over six years.
While it won’t be an MMA return, the Dagestani star will make his professional grappling debut at an ACBJJ event scheduled for 2026.
At one point, Magomedsharipov was considered one of the brightest prospects in mixed martial arts.
Originally coming from a freestyle wrestling background, he later developed a dynamic striking style through Sanda, creating the unorthodox and creative approach that made him a fan favorite.
Under the guidance of his Sanda coach, he transitioned to MMA in 2012.
His rise was rapid.
On the regional circuit across Russia and Ukraine, he went 6-1 in just 18 months before joining ACB, where he compiled a 6-0 record and became the promotion’s inaugural featherweight champion.
That success led to a UFC contract in 2017.
Magomedsharipov impressed immediately, winning all six of his UFC bouts and extending his overall record to 18–1.
However, recurring health issues began limiting his activity, and in 2021 he shocked fans by retiring from MMA, choosing instead to focus on coaching his younger brother Khasan Magomedsharipov.
Now, he finally returns to competition.
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