Kyle Daukaus D’Arce Knight Returns Review
- A growing trend in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) sees fighters returning to the association after being released, and often achieving meaningful success.
- What: Increased success rate of UFC fighters returning after release.
- The foremost example is flyweight Brandon Moreno, who ascended to the top of the division less than two years after his return and just over three years after...
UFC Fighters Finding Success on Second Stints with the Promotion
A growing trend in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) sees fighters returning to the association after being released, and often achieving meaningful success. This resurgence challenges the conventional wisdom that a departure signals a decline, and offers a pathway for athletes to revitalize their careers.
The foremost example is flyweight Brandon Moreno, who ascended to the top of the division less than two years after his return and just over three years after his initial UFC run ended. Moreno ultimately became the UFC Flyweight Champion, demonstrating the potential for significant achievement after being released and rebuilding on the regional circuit.
Youssef Zalal’s Featherweight Rise
Similarly, Youssef Zalal re-emerged in the featherweight division after a period of success on the regional circuit. He secured a submission win over Billy Quarantillo in a short-notice comeback fight. As of September 16, 2024, “the moroccan Devil” holds a 4-0 record as returning to the UFC, with a unanimous decision victory over Calvin Kattar earlier in 2024, earning him a place in the Top 15 of the 145-pound weight class, according to official UFC rankings.
Inspired by Past Successes
This trend hasn’t gone unnoticed by other fighters. One fighter, speaking anonymously, noted the inspiration drawn from Moreno and Zalal’s success. “The first thing I looked up was ‘Who are guys that got re-signed that are doing well?'” he said. “I think Youssef might have gotten signed my second or third fight outside of the UFC – it wasn’t that long ago – so I was like, ‘these guys are doing it, so there is no reason I can’t do it too.'”
Why the Resurgence?
Several factors contribute to this phenomenon. Fighters released from the UFC often gain valuable experiance competing elsewhere, refining their skills and addressing weaknesses. The regional circuit provides opportunities for consistent fighting, building momentum and confidence. Furthermore, fighters returning to the UFC often benefit from increased maturity, a renewed sense of purpose, and a better understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
The UFC itself may also be more willing to take chances on fighters who have demonstrated advancement after being released.The organization’s talent pool is constantly evolving, and bringing back proven fighters can add depth and excitement to divisions.