Multiple title bouts have already resolved in 2026, with Sean Strickland capturing the middleweight championship via decision over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May, while Islam Makhachev defended the lightweight belt against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in mid-August. Alexander Volkanovski retained featherweight gold, Joshua Van held flyweight, and additional defenses or vacancies loom in bantamweight, welterweight, and light heavyweight through remaining cards like UFC Fight Nights in August and September. Roster health, weight-cut issues, and stylistic matchups in upcoming title eliminators will determine further changes, as the crowded schedule creates opportunities for contenders with strong recent form or favorable bracket positioning.