Marcus ‘Buchecha’ Almeida is set to pursue the Tom Aspinall UFC heavyweight title after securing his UFC contract in early July. Known widely as MMA’s top heavyweight grappler, Almeida transitioned from being a decorated Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion to a UFC contender, despite earlier doubts about continuing his MMA career.

After departing ONE Championship, where he had competed since 2020 following an illustrious career in jiu-jitsu and submission grappling, Almeida now looks forward to making an impact in the UFC’s heavyweight division.

Struggles in ONE Championship Nearly Led Almeida to Quit MMA

In a recent conversation with MMA Fighting, Almeida opened up about his difficult experiences in ONE Championship before his UFC move. Despite a strong start that included five wins in six fights, Almeida faced long periods of inactivity and few fight offers. This unexpected stretch of downtime caused considerable frustration and led him to contemplate retirement.

His last bout in ONE took place in November 2024, when he secured a rear-naked choke victory over Amir Aliakbari. That win came just after a loss to Oumar ‘Reug Reug’ Kane, who would go on to claim the ONE heavyweight title. Yet, even with this competitive momentum, Almeida’s career stagnated due to contract constraints and limited fight opportunities.

It was hard to get out of that contract, but we did it. I went there and was a man (of my word), signed a six-fight contract and did all my six fights and left through the front door. But now, as you said, I’m free,

Almeida said.

He described the anxiety and pressure behind the scenes as a significant burden.

“Many people only see what happens when you step into the ring or cage and fight, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes. It’s a lot of stress. It’s bad for the mental health of the athlete.”

It crossed my mind many times to retire because I couldn’t take it no more, that was killing me inside,

he added, emphasizing the emotional toll of being contractually unable to compete. Almeida revealed that he was even restricted from participating in jiu-jitsu competitions during that period, intensifying his frustration.

In this case, imagine me being unable to even compete in jiu-jitsu. That was something that bothered me a lot. But thank God it’s over. It was quite stressful, but now (I’m) free and ready for the new challenges…signing with the UFC was my desire and dream.

Swift Path to UFC Debut Following Release from ONE Championship

Unlike the long wait and inactivity he endured in ONE, Almeida’s transition to the UFC has been rapid and clear-cut. As soon as his signing was announced, the Brazilian grappler was booked for his UFC debut against Slovakian heavyweight Martin Buday at UFC Abu Dhabi, scheduled for July 26.

Buday arrives with a strong recent record, having won his last two UFC bouts and holding an impressive 6-1 Octagon record. His lone UFC loss came against Shamil Gaziev in late 2023, an outcome that vaulted Gaziev into a major main event slot. Almeida aims to follow a similar trajectory by securing a victorious start and moving toward a potential title shot against Tom Aspinall.

The upcoming fight at the Etihad Arena will mark Almeida’s first UFC contest and the initial step in his journey toward the heavyweight crown currently held by Aspinall.

The Significance of Almeida’s UFC Ambitions in the Heavyweight Landscape

Marcus ‘Buchecha’ Almeida’s signing with the UFC and his debut fight represent a pivotal moment for both him and the heavyweight division. His grappling pedigree and competitive spirit add a distinct element to the heavyweight roster, while his perseverance through challenging contractual setbacks highlights his determination.

As he chases Tom Aspinall’s UFC heavyweight title, Almeida embodies the resilience required to compete at the sport’s highest levels. His experience overcoming obstacles and enduring mental strain underlines the personal costs many fighters face behind the scenes.

If Almeida succeeds early in his UFC tenure, it could accelerate his position as a top contender and shake up a division that continues to evolve rapidly. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his grappling mastery translates inside the Octagon against athletes known for their power and striking abilities.