In what appears to be an inadvertent confirmation of his contract status, UFC BJJ bantamweight champion Mikey Musumeci seemingly revealed he’s re-signed with the promotion during an Instagram “Ask Me a Question” session on Thursday.
The five-time world champion, who has been at the center of contract speculation for months, dropped several hints during the social media Q&A that strongly suggest he’s secured a new deal with UFC BJJ.
When asked “when is your next match?” Musumeci simply replied “Feb 12 :).” He notably showed confidence about his next booking at UFC BJJ 5, scheduled for February 12, 2026.
More revealing was his response to the question “Will you stay at UFC bjj ???” to which he cryptically answered “Announcement soon”
In another response, Musumeci addressed speculation about UFC BJJ’s long-term viability, stating: “Absolutely, they have actual money and can sustain long term what others cannot.” The statement appeared to reference his confidence in UFC’s financial backing compared to other grappling organizations.
Perhaps most tellingly, when discussing his February 12 match, Musumeci revealed he’ll be “competing with another black belt world champion who he admires and respects.”
This shows genuine enthusiasm about remaining with the promotion rather than exploring other options.
Musumeci’s contract situation has been one of the biggest storylines in professional grappling over the past several months. The champion first disclosed his contract was expiring during an October appearance on Jake Shields’ Fight Back Podcast, revealing he had a critical meeting scheduled with UFC executives.
The 29-year-old champion maintained complete silence on social media about his contract negotiations throughout the fall, an uncharacteristic move for the typically active promoter of UFC BJJ events. This radio silence only intensified speculation about his future with the organization.
Now, with his Instagram AMA responses, Musumeci appears to have accidentally confirmed what UFC BJJ already let slip: he’s staying with the promotion.
UFC BJJ 5, scheduled for February 12, 2026, represents the fifth event in UFC’s submission grappling series. The events feature elite grapplers competing in an octagon setting under submission-focused rules with three 5-minute rounds.
The series has brought MMA fans into the world of jiu-jitsu through events and related programming like “UFC BJJ: Road to the Title.” As the promotion’s most recognizable face and biggest draw in the lighter weight divisions, Musumeci’s return was critical to UFC BJJ’s continued growth.
With Mason Fowler expected to defend titles at the event and Musumeci now apparently confirmed for February 12, UFC BJJ 5 is shaping up to be one of the promotion’s biggest cards yet.
While Musumeci’s Instagram responses strongly indicate he’s re-signed with UFC BJJ, the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
