Reports indicate that Welsh Brazilian jiu-jitsu sensation Ffion Davies has inked an exclusive deal with the UFC, marking another significant move in the promotion’s expansion into the grappling world.
Multiple sources close to the situation have confirmed that Davies, a seven-time world champion across IBJJF and ADCC competitions, will join Mikey Musumeci as the promotion’s exclusively signed grapplers. This development aligns with UFC’s ambitious plans to invest $10-12 million in jiu-jitsu this year, as previously announced by Dana White. The news was first reported by Anton Tabuena.
This signing comes shortly after Davies was forced to withdraw from her scheduled main event match at UFC FPI 10 against ADCC champion Adele Fornarino due to a shoulder injury. The promotion subsequently elevated the Nicky Rodriguez versus Victor Hugo contest to headline status.
Davies, who recently triumphed over Mackenzie Dern at the Craig Jones Invitational, shared the news of her injury through a video statement, expressing her disappointment about the withdrawal.
“I sustained an injury last week to my shoulder, so I’m out of action for the next few weeks,” Davies explained. “I’m frustrated, I’m sad, and obviously I’d like to extend my apologies to the UFC and to my opponent, as I’m sure it’s frustrating for her as well.”
The cancelled match was particularly significant as it represented another milestone for women’s combat sports, with both athletes being prominent advocates for equality in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Davies has been vocal about fair representation and compensation, stating previously:
“If you’re going to talk about fair pay, who is suffering the most? It’s the girls, and it’s not deserved. We bring the heat, we have brilliant Jiu-Jitsu, and people love to watch.”
Despite the setback, Davies remains optimistic about a quick return to competition. “I hope to be back in action in May, as the injury doesn’t require surgery or anything like that, I hope,” she said. “It doesn’t seem that way right now, so I just need to rehab and get focused on getting healthy and recovered.”
Davies has been making waves in the jiu-jitsu community not only for her exceptional technical skills but also for speaking out against gender discrimination in the sport. In a recent viral clip, she shed light on the persistent sexism she has encountered throughout her career, including receiving dismissive comments and being denied equal coaching opportunities.
The Welsh grappler’s exclusive deal with UFC represents a significant achievement in her career and further validates her ongoing advocacy for women in combat sports.
