WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 12: President and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Dana White is seen during the UFC Freedom 250 Press Conference at the Lincoln Memorial on June 12, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
The UFC recently released three fighters, one of whom had a lengthy career and a notable distinction involving a takedown of UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Fighter: Thiago Moises – lightweight
- UFC tenure: 2018–2026, with 16 appearances in the Octagon
- Record: 19–10 overall, 8–8 in the UFC
- Why cut: Three defeats in his last four fights, including consecutive losses
- Claim to fame: One of only two UFC fighters to secure a takedown against Islam Makhachev
Why Did The UFC Release Thiago Moises?
At 31, Moises has entered a two‑fight losing streak, dropping three of his last four contests. After an 8‑8 record over 16 Octagon appearances, he was quietly removed from the roster; his most recent fights were a first‑round knockout loss to Jared Gordon and a split‑decision defeat to Gauge Young in April. In the competitive lightweight division, such a downturn typically leads to a roster move, though the UFC may still consider re‑signing him in the future.
What Is Thiago Moises’ Connection To Islam Makhachev?
Moises is one of only two UFC fighters to have recorded a takedown against Islam Makhachev, the other being top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan. He faced Makhachev in a 2021 main event, which he lost via a fourth‑round rear‑naked choke. Despite the defeat, Moises earned the distinction of being Makhachev’s first-ranked victory and one of only two men to bring the champion to the canvas. As Makhachev ascended the divisions—vacating the lightweight title, now held by Ilia Topuria, and later winning the welterweight championship—this achievement has become increasingly notable. Few fighters can claim to have shared the Octagon with the current pound‑for‑pound king and forced him to work.
What’s Next For Thiago Moises?
At 31, Moises brings considerable name value and a résumé highlighted by a three‑fight win streak that once earned him a main‑event slot against Islam Makhachev. He is well positioned to join the Professional Fighters League or to appear on a forthcoming MVP MMA card, both of which appear likely. Rather than signaling the end of his career, this transition offers a fresh start, echoing a path that began even before he turned 18.
