In one of the most intriguing developments of the early 2026 MMA calendar, Patchy Mix, the former Bellator bantamweight champion and recent UFC competitor, has officially signed with Rizin Fighting Federation, signaling a major shift in his career and an electrifying moment for fans of global MMA.
A Career Reboot After UFC Departure
After entering the UFC in 2025 amid considerable fanfare, Mix struggled to find his footing in the world’s premier MMA promotion.
He endured two consecutive losses in the Octagon — a unanimous decision defeat to Mario Bautista followed by a close split decision loss to Jakub Wiklacz — leading to his release from the UFC earlier this month.
Rather than seeing this as the end, Mix has seized the opportunity to reshape his legacy outside the UFC spotlight.
The move to Rizin, one of MMA’s most storied organizations, represents both a fresh start and a bold new challenge.
Rise to Featherweight and New Goals
One of the most notable aspects of Mix’s Rizin arrival is his decision to compete at featherweight, moving up from his old bantamweight home.
The intense weight cuts required at 135 pounds were reportedly taking a toll, and this transition is seen as a pivotal factor in reviving his competitive spark.
At a recent Rizin press conference, Mix referred to this next phase as “Patchy 2.0,” and made no secret of his ambition to climb the featherweight ranks and ultimately challenge champion Razhabali Shaydullaev, whom he called the “final boss” of the division.
High-Stakes Debut Against Rising Star
Mix’s first test under the Rizin banner will come on March 7, 2026, at Rizin 52 — set to take place at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan — where he’ll face Kyoma Akimoto, a highly touted 19-year-old prospect boasting an impressive 11–1 record.
Akimoto’s dynamic style and finish rate make this an exciting matchup and a true proving ground for Mix’s renewed career path.
Fans are already buzzing over the stylistic contrast: Mix’s grappling excellence and veteran savvy against Akimoto’s speed and youthful momentum.
Looking Ahead: Rizin’s Growing Spotlight
This signing is also significant for Rizin itself as the organization continues to build momentum globally.
Adding a recognizable name like Patchy Mix to its roster — particularly one with championship pedigree and UFC experience — boosts its profile and adds a compelling storyline to its early 2026 schedule.
For Mix, this represents both redemption and reinvention: a chance to demonstrate that he can still compete at the highest levels when fighting on his own terms, in a weight class that better suits his frame, and for a passionate international audience.
Conclusion
Patchy Mix’s move to Rizin is more than a roster update — it’s a chapter reset in a career still rich with potential.
As fans around the world anticipate his clash with Kyoma Akimoto, the MMA community watches closely to see whether Mix’s “Patchy 2.0” delivers the thrilling resurgence he promises.
