Zabit Magomedsharipov Returns: From UFC to ACBJJ Grappling

He’s back. After nearly seven years away from competition, former UFC featherweight contender Zabit Magomedsharipov has signed with ACBJJ and will return to combat sports—just not in the octagon.

The Mysterious Disappearance

Zabit Magomedsharipov was one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history. His creative striking, flashy techniques, and dangerous submission game made him a fan favorite. At his peak, many considered him a future featherweight champion.

Then he vanished.

Citing health issues, Zabit stepped away from MMA in 2019. For years, fans speculated about his condition, potential comebacks, and whether we’d ever see him compete again. Occasional training videos surfaced, keeping hope alive, but no official announcements came.

ACBJJ Announces The Signing

On February 16, 2026, ACBJJ (Absolute Championship of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) confirmed what many had hoped for. ACBJJ president Zaurbek Khasiev announced the signing with characteristic brevity:

“Major decisions are made in silence. Negotiations are complete. Zabit Magomedsharipov joins ACBJJ. We are assembling the elite.”

Zabit himself posted a training video on Instagram with the caption: “6 years have passed, but my hands are still reaching for it.”

Why Grappling Instead of MMA?

The shift to grappling makes sense for several reasons. First, submission grappling is less physically demanding than MMA—no strikes to absorb, no weight cuts to the extreme levels required for UFC competition. For someone returning after health issues, grappling offers a path back to competition without the full toll of MMA.

Second, Zabit’s ground game was always elite. His BJJ credentials and creative submissions made him dangerous off his back and on top. In a pure grappling format, he can showcase those skills without worrying about getting punched.

Third, grappling is booming. With UFC BJJ launching, ADCC growing, and more eyes on submission grappling than ever, the timing is perfect for a high-profile crossover.

What Is ACBJJ?

ACBJJ is a Russian grappling promotion and a spinoff of ACA (Absolute Championship Akhmat), one of the largest MMA promotions in Russia. The organization has been building a roster of elite grapplers, and signing Zabit represents a major statement of intent.

With Khasiev’s “assembling the elite” comment, expect more high-profile signings as ACBJJ positions itself as a competitor in the growing grappling promotion landscape.

Could MMA Be Next?

The question on every fan’s mind: Is this a stepping stone back to MMA?

It’s possible. Grappling competition could be Zabit’s way of testing his body, rebuilding competitive sharpness, and gauging whether a full MMA return is feasible. If he performs well and stays healthy, the door to the octagon might open again.

For now, fans should appreciate what we’re getting: one of the most talented fighters of his generation returning to competition. Whether it leads to MMA or not, Zabit Magomedsharipov is back—and that’s worth celebrating.

When Will Zabit Compete?

ACBJJ hasn’t announced a specific date or opponent yet. Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge about Zabit’s grappling debut.