Korean UFC Veteran Says ACBJJ Has Approached Him for a Match Against Former UFC Contender Zabit Magomedsharipov
UFC featherweight contender Doo Ho Choi has revealed that he is considering a surprising grappling match against former UFC standout Zabit Magomedsharipov while also discussing how upcoming UFC ranking changes could impact his return to the featherweight rankings.
Speaking on his YouTube channel after his recent fight, Choi shared details about a potential offer from Russian-based grappling promotion ACBJJ. According to Choi, the organization recently contacted him regarding a match against Magomedsharipov, who has been largely absent from competition since stepping away from the UFC.
The revelation came while Choi reflected on his career, his future in the UFC featherweight division, and changes that could soon reshape the promotion’s ranking system.
Doo Ho Choi Discusses Potential Match With Zabit Magomedsharipov
One of the biggest surprises from the video was Choi’s disclosure that negotiations are underway for a grappling contest against Magomedsharipov.
“ACBJJ contacted me,” Choi explained. “The opponent is Zabit Magomedsharipov.”
Magomedsharipov remains one of the most respected names among MMA fans despite not competing for several years. During his UFC run, the Russian featherweight compiled an undefeated promotional record and was widely viewed as a future title challenger before his unexpected departure from the sport.
Choi acknowledged the challenge of facing a grappler of Zabit’s caliber but sees an opportunity to create a major upset.
“He is extremely famous and one of the best grapplers out there,” Choi said. “If I beat him, it could be a huge upset.”
According to Choi, the event would likely take place in Russia sometime in July if both sides reach an agreement. However, he emphasized that no final decision has been made and that MMA remains his primary focus.
UFC Ranking Changes Could Benefit Active Fighters
Choi also addressed reports that the UFC is preparing to introduce a revised ranking system that places greater emphasis on activity, strength of schedule, and fight results.
The Korean featherweight believes the changes could work in his favor and potentially allow him to re-enter the UFC rankings without needing immediate movement from other contenders.
Under the rumored system, factors expected to carry more weight include:
- Recent activity
- Quality of opposition
- Opponents’ recent UFC performances
- Finishes versus decisions
Choi noted that fighters who consistently compete and secure stoppage victories may receive greater recognition than under the previous system.
“I think active fighters should be rewarded,” Choi said. “If you don’t fight, it makes sense that your ranking should eventually drop.”
The veteran believes the adjustment could create more opportunities for rising contenders and prevent inactive fighters from maintaining their positions indefinitely.
Why Returning to the UFC Rankings Matters
While some fans dismiss rankings as largely symbolic, Choi explained why earning a spot inside the UFC’s official Top 15 remains important.
According to Choi, the difference in ability between the fifteenth-ranked fighter and those just outside the rankings is often minimal. However, the visibility that comes with being officially ranked can significantly impact a fighter’s career.
“The UFC only officially ranks fifteen fighters,” Choi explained. “Being inside that group helps with recognition, opportunities, and future matchups.”
For Choi, re-entering the rankings could increase the likelihood of securing higher-profile opponents and bigger opportunities within one of the UFC’s deepest divisions.
Focus Remains on the UFC Featherweight Division
Although the possibility of facing Magomedsharipov in a grappling match has generated excitement, Choi made it clear that his long-term goal remains climbing the UFC featherweight ladder.
The South Korean fan favorite has experienced a resurgence in recent years and continues to position himself for another run toward the division’s elite.
Whether that journey includes a detour to Russia for a grappling showdown with Zabit remains to be seen, but Choi’s comments have already sparked discussion among fans eager to see two highly skilled fighters meet on the mat.
For now, negotiations continue while Choi waits to see how both the potential ACBJJ matchup and the UFC’s new ranking system develop in the coming months.
What This Means for Korean MMA
A grappling match between Doo Ho Choi and Zabit Magomedsharipov would immediately become one of the most high-profile cross-discipline appearances involving a Korean UFC fighter in recent years.
Combined with the UFC’s reported ranking overhaul, the developments could create new opportunities for Choi as he continues his pursuit of another run inside the UFC featherweight rankings.
For Korean MMA fans, both stories are worth watching closely as the second half of 2026 begins.
Full video courtesy of the Superboy Youtube Channel
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Wasn’t that guy sick?