Marcus Buchecha Joins UFC Roster, Set for Heavyweight Debut in Abu Dhabi Against Martin Buday

Brazilian jiu-jitsu icon Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida is officially a UFC fighter. After parting ways with ONE Championship, the grappling phenom has signed with the world’s premier MMA organization and is slated to make his Octagon debut on July 26 at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi.

Sources familiar with the matter confirmed to MMA Fighting that Buchecha’s first UFC bout will be against Slovakian heavyweight Martin Buday. The matchup adds even more intrigue to the UFC’s return to the Etihad Arena, as the event already includes high-profile names such as Robert Whittaker and former ONE Championship king Reinier de Ridder.

For Buchecha, this move marks a new chapter in an already legendary combat sports career. A 13-time IBJJF World Champion at black belt level and a two-time ADCC gold medalist, the Brazilian has long been regarded as one of the greatest jiu-jitsu practitioners in history. He made a successful transition to MMA under the ONE Championship banner, where he compiled a 5-1 professional record — all victories coming via finish.

His most recent appearance came in November 2024 when he returned from a 15-month layoff to submit Amir Aliakbari in the very first round. That win reminded fans of his elite ground game, which has overwhelmed nearly every opponent he's faced in MMA. The only blemish on his record is a decision loss to current ONE heavyweight titleholder Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane in 2023, a bout that showcased Buchecha’s durability and evolving all-around skillset.

Now signed with the UFC, Buchecha will face a formidable test in Martin Buday. The 15-2 heavyweight is no stranger to the Octagon, boasting a 6-1 UFC record. Known for his grinding, methodical style, Buday recently picked up decision wins over former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski and rising contender Uran Satybaldiev. He rebounded impressively after a TKO loss to Shamil Gaziev in December 2023, showcasing his ability to bounce back under pressure.

The clash between Buchecha and Buday sets up a classic stylistic battle: Buday’s clinch-heavy, grinding approach against Buchecha’s world-class submission game. The Abu Dhabi card will be headlined by another crossover star, Reinier de Ridder, who looks to maintain his undefeated UFC run against ex-middleweight champ Robert Whittaker.

Buchecha, who trained at American Top Team, has remained quiet about the specifics of his UFC transition, but fans are already buzzing over what his inclusion could mean for the heavyweight division. His debut in Abu Dhabi aligns with the UFC’s efforts to globalize the brand and tap into the Middle East’s growing MMA market — and Buchecha’s reputation alone is sure to draw in both jiu-jitsu loyalists and casual fans alike.

As he prepares for his toughest test yet, the decorated grappler remains focused and grounded. That mindset reflects both his competitive spirit and appreciation for the opportunity to showcase his talents on the sport’s biggest stage.

Whether or not he walks away with a victory in Abu Dhabi, one thing is certain: Marcus Buchecha’s UFC debut will be one of the most anticipated heavyweight moments of the year.