In a surprising decision, the UFC has released ranked heavyweight Martin Buday despite his recent victory at UFC Abu Dhabi. The 33-year-old Slovakian fighter, who entered the event as the No.12 ranked contender, secured a decision win over Marcus Buchecha on Saturday.
Yet the bout marked the end of his contract, and the promotion opted not to renew it. For many fans following ufc heavyweight martin buday release news, the move raises questions about how the organization values consistency versus star power.
Buday’s UFC Record and Career Path
Buday leaves the UFC with a strong 7-1 record across eight fights. His only setback came in December 2023 at UFC 296, where he suffered a TKO loss to Shamil Gaziev. Otherwise, “Badys” built a resume defined by durability and steady improvement.
Over his final three appearances, Buday delivered back-to-back wins, including victories over:
- Former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski
- Former LFA titleholder Uran Satybaldiev
- Submission specialist Marcus Buchecha
These results kept him ranked inside the division’s top 15 and positioned him as a reliable heavyweight presence. However, UFC officials appear to be moving in another direction, perhaps opening roster spots for younger prospects or more marketable names.
Contender Series to the UFC
Buday first entered the promotion via Dana White’s Contender Series, where his size and finishing ability stood out. He quickly established himself as a tough matchup, collecting wins over fighters like Chris Barnett and Josh Parisian. His first-round submission of Parisian in August 2023 was particularly eye-catching, showcasing that Buday was more than just a grinder.
Before joining the UFC, Buday held the OKTAGON heavyweight title in Europe, further solidifying his credentials. His move to the world’s biggest MMA stage was seen as a natural progression for a fighter who combined regional dominance with international potential.
Recent Form and Statistics
The Slovakian heavyweight’s UFC stint can be summarized by both his record and the types of victories he collected.
Martin Buday’s UFC Career at a Glance
| Opponent | Event | Result | Method | Year |
| Chris Barnett | UFC Fight Night | Win | Decision | 2022 |
| Josh Parisian | UFC Fight Night | Win | Submission (R1) | 2023 |
| Shamil Gaziev | UFC 296 | Loss | TKO | 2023 |
| Andrei Arlovski | UFC Fight Night | Win | Decision | 2024 |
| Uran Satybaldiev | UFC Fight Night | Win | Decision | 2024 |
| Marcus Buchecha | UFC Abu Dhabi | Win | Decision | 2025 |
This record reflects his consistent ability to win rounds and manage fights, even if he wasn’t always producing highlight-reel finishes.
Why Did UFC Release Buday?
While no official explanation has been given, several factors may have influenced the decision:
- Contractual Expiry – His deal ended after Abu Dhabi, and the UFC may not have been willing to renegotiate on his terms.
- Fighting Style – Buday’s wins often came by decision, which, though effective, may not excite fans compared to knockout-heavy heavyweights.
- Roster Management – The UFC regularly cycles ranked fighters out to refresh divisions and make room for new talent.
- Marketability – Fighters like Martin Buday, who lack a strong promotional hook, sometimes find themselves overlooked despite solid records.
The Significance of the Release
The ufc heavyweight martin buday release is notable because it highlights how competitive and unforgiving the UFC can be. Even a top-15 ranked contender with a winning streak is not guaranteed job security. For Buday, his exit underscores the business side of the sport, where contracts, entertainment value, and future matchmaking often outweigh consistent performances.
For fans, this decision is puzzling. Buday was never a trash talker or media magnet, but he was reliable, durable, and ranked among the division’s elite. Letting go of a fighter who just beat Marcus Buchecha shows that the UFC is prioritizing fresh narratives and potentially more lucrative stars in the heavyweight division.
What’s Next for Martin Buday?
Buday will not be short on options after his UFC release. Organizations such as Bellator (now operating under the PFL banner), ONE Championship, and KSW are all potential destinations. Each of these promotions values experienced heavyweights who can immediately contend for titles.
- PFL/Bellator merger: Could give Buday a platform to fight in high-profile tournaments.
- ONE Championship: Offers exposure in Asia, where heavyweights are rare and exciting.
- KSW or return to OKTAGON: A return to Europe could restore him as a fan-favorite headliner.
At 33, Buday is entering what is traditionally a prime window for heavyweights, who often peak later than fighters in lighter divisions. His proven cardio, toughness, and ability to adapt make him an asset in any organization.
UFC’s Heavyweight Landscape Without Buday
The decision not to re-sign Buday could also be tied to shifts at the top of the heavyweight division. With Jon Jones sidelined by injuries and Tom Aspinall emerging as a new titleholder, the UFC may be reshaping its roster to reflect future matchups. Fighters like Jailton Almeida, Sergei Pavlovich, and Ciryl Gane generate more buzz and are likely to headline major events.
This focus on highlight-driven athletes may leave consistent grinders like Buday without a spot. Still, his departure is a reminder that the UFC’s ranking system does not always align with contract decisions.