Zabit Magomedsharipov returns after 7 years, beats UFC featherweight

Zabit Magomedsharipov has returned to competition after nearly seven years away, securing a unanimous decision victory over UFC featherweight Youssef Zalal in a grappling match at ACBJJ 22. The Russian, who last competed in MMA in 2019, showed he remains a skilled technician despite the extended layoff, though Zalal finished strong and expressed frustration with the judges' decision.

Magomedsharipov was originally scheduled to face Raul Rosas Jr. at ACBJJ 21 last month but withdrew due to injury. The high-profile return marks a surprising re-entry into the competitive grappling scene for one of MMA's most intriguing what-ifs. The once-lauded UFC featherweight, celebrated for his striking prowess and well-rounded skill set, never fought again after defeating Calvin Kattar in 2019. A series of cancelled bouts followed before he formally retired from MMA in 2022.

Ahead of his match with Zalal, Magomedsharipov addressed his decision to walk away from the sport, insisting he harbors no regrets. "I have no regrets about leaving the sport and not winning anything," he told Red Corner MMA. "Of course, I wanted to become UFC champion, but it fell through. They didn't let me. They were stalling for time. They didn't let me fight."

The comments underscore Magomedsharipov's long-standing frustration with matchmaking during his final years in the UFC. While grappling competition does not carry the same stakes as MMA, his return to the mat demonstrates continued interest in testing himself against quality opposition.