Masvidal vs. Edwards in 2026: Could the legendary welterweight make a comeback after a three-year absence?

Jorge Masvidal’s return to the UFC octagon in 2026 could very well become a reality. At 41, the legendary "Gamebred" is eyeing a fight against Leon Edwards to finally settle their unfinished rivalry. Negotiations are already advanced, with financial and sporting conditions now the deciding factors.

To remember:

Jorge Masvidal, 41, is considering a return to the octagon by the end of 2025, with a potential fight in 2026.
A showdown with Leon Edwards is the top choice to close their historic rivalry.
Negotiations with the UFC are in the advanced stage, pending financial and sporting conditions.
Masvidal will need to prove his form against the best in the 77 kg division.

A Return That Shakes the UFC

Jorge Masvidal, 41, is keeping fans on edge about his potential return to the octagon. After more than three years away, the former UFC star has confirmed advanced talks with the promotion’s management. According to his statements, a deal could be finalized by the end of the year, with a fight targeted for 2026. News that’s already electrifying MMA fans!
Masvidal’s preferred opponent is Leon Edwards, his long-time rival, to finally settle their unfinished business. Their original bout, scheduled for 2021, was scrapped due to an injury to "Gamebred." At 41, he’ll need to prove he still has the explosiveness to compete in the 77 kg division, where the young guns won’t cut him any slack.

High-Stakes Negotiations

Talks between Masvidal and the UFC are already well underway, but nothing is set in stone. Financial and sporting conditions must align for this project to materialize. While "Gamebred" has left his mark on MMA with spectacular KOs, his return will need to live up to the hype.
For Edwards, this fight would be a golden opportunity to assert his dominance in the division. After defending his title against Belal Muhammad in 2024, the Brit is currently navigating internal UFC challenges. A showdown with Masvidal could reignite his career and deliver an unforgettable spectacle for fans.

A Duel Steeped in History

The rivalry between Masvidal and Edwards is nothing new. Their first fight, set for 2021, was canceled due to Masvidal’s injury. Since then, the two have taken different paths, but their potential clash remains one of the most anticipated in the division.
If Masvidal can rediscover his old form, this bout could well become the fight of the decade. Fans are already dreaming of an explosive rematch, where "Gamebred" might once again make history. But at 41, time is not on his side. Anything is possible, and the UFC isn’t done surprising us yet!

With a return in 2026, Jorge Masvidal could add a final chapter to his legendary career. Between athletic challenges and financial stakes, this fight against Leon Edwards is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in the coming years. Stay tuned!

Editor's Opinion

By Nakmen

Damn, this Masvidal, the old fox! At 41, he’s still playing chess with the UFC like a Go master against a beginner. Edwards, on the other hand, has everything to gain: a fight with Masvidal is like Batman taking on the Joker after a decade in retirement—spectacular, but the old Joker’s still got a few tricks up his sleeve. The funny thing is, if Masvidal comes back in shape, it’s a guaranteed show. If not… well, we’ll get a masterclass in career management à la OSS117, full of negotiations and suspense. Either way, if this happens, I want front-row seats—even if I have to fight other fans for a good view. And if it’s a rematch of their first fight? We’re in for a *The Last Dance* MMA edition, but way more chaotic.

Article written by SkimAI
Reviewed and completed by Nakmen