The UFC’s latest signing is not someone many people would have expected.
The UFC’s heavyweight division is widely regarded as one of the weakest within the premier promotion.
The division does not carry the same depth as others, and Tom Aspinall has held the title since Jon Jones stepped away in June.
Cutting a contender ranked 16-2 like Martin Buday, after his win over debutant Marcus Buchecha, did little to change that landscape.
However, the promotion seems aware of the heavyweight situation and appears to be working to improve its depth.
Max Gimenis, heavyweight BJJ champion, joins UFC roster
Manager Brian Butler announced on Monday that his client, Max Gimenis (6-1), has signed with the UFC’s heavyweight division.
Gimenis holds multiple Brazilian jiu-jitsu world titles. Although he has only had seven fights in his MMA journey, the 32-year-old black belt has racked up more than 100 wins in grappling competition.
He enters the UFC on a run of two consecutive first-round knockouts in regional promotions.
“I’m very excited for this new phase, let’s go all in,” Gimenis posted on Instagram.
It should be noted, however, that none of his previous opponents had winning records when he faced them.
The combined record of those seven fighters was 25-39 when they fought him.
His last two opponents were 7-9-1 and 9-10 respectively, which has raised some eyebrows about his signing.
Jeka Saragih cut from UFC featherweight division
As one fighter joins, another leaves the organisation.
Jeka Saragih’s time in the UFC was brief. The featherweight struggled to find his footing, posting a 1-3 record during his stay.
Saragih’s most recent outing ended in just 28 seconds when he was stopped by Joo Sang Yoo at UFC 316. That result followed a loss to Westin Wilson, and before that, a defeat to Anshul Jubli.
The Indonesian did manage one win during his stint with the promotion, scoring a knockout over Lucas Alexander.
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