Youssef Zalal’s journey in the UFC is a testament to the fact that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Just three years ago, it seemed like his UFC career was over, especially after losing to Ilia Topuria by unanimous decision, followed by two more losses and a draw. This streak led to his release from the UFC, forcing him to reevaluate his fighting style. He realized that he needed to be more aggressive and finish fights if he wanted to make a comeback.
Turning Point
Zalal’s fortunes changed when he started competing in the Sparta Combat League, where he managed to secure three consecutive finishes. This impressive streak reopened the doors to the UFC, and he eventually got the opportunity to fight Calvin Kattar, the number 10 ranked fighter in the division, at the UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas. The Moroccan fighter’s speed and footwork were on full display as he took down Kattar, who struggled to connect during the first two rounds.
“This has been the best chance of my career, fighting a legend like Kattar…” Zalal said in a post-fight interview. Despite Kattar’s elite boxing skills, which allowed him to connect with several powerful combinations in the final round, it was too little, too late, and Zalal secured a unanimous decision victory. With this win, Zalal made it clear that he’s not done yet, saying, “This victory is incredible, but there is still a job to do… I want to be champion, and I will be champion.”
Top 10 Insured?
Now that Zalal has defeated the number 10 ranked fighter, he’s expected to break into the top 15 of the division for the first time. He’s had four fights in 11 months, a remarkable turnaround considering he wasn’t even in the UFC 11 months ago. “For me, being in the position I am right now, it is everything,” he acknowledged. With eleven fights in the company, Zalal is undoubtedly at his best, and he’s not showing any signs of slowing down.
When asked about his future plans, Zalal revealed that he’d love to face top-ranked fighters like Brian Ortega or Yair RodrÃguez. “My goal is to get to Top 5 and be a poster head in 2025,” he said. Despite acknowledging that he needs a break, Zalal’s plan is to continue climbing the ranks throughout the year.
As for his detractors, Zalal addressed the boos from the APEX public after his performance against Kattar, saying, “I just try to win my fights as easier as possible… I know that going to war in each fight and all that sells more, but also has merit to try to be strategic.” He concluded by saying that he’s going to remain true to himself, regardless of what others think. With his sights set on the top 5 and a championship title, Zalal is definitely a fighter to watch in the coming year.