Exclusive! Jailton Malhadinho talks about UFC Vegas 113 and previews Alex Poatan's heavyweight division.

Malhadinho promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

After a tough defeat to Alexander Volkov last October, Jailton Malhadinho returns to the world's most famous octagon this Saturday (7) in a surprising duel in the heavyweight category (up to 120,2 kg). The best ranked Brazilian in the division, the Brazilian faces Russian Rizvan Kuniev in the fifth fight of the main card, marking the beginning of a new phase of his career in the Ultimate.

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In an exclusive interview with SUPER LUTAS , the division star spoke about the duel at UFC Vegas 113, the possible move up a weight class for Alex Poatan , and also the possibility of returning to light heavyweight (up to 93kg).

Of the 22 victories in Jailton Almeida 's career , only one has been by decision 👊 #UFCVegas113 | Sat 7 February | Live by @PPlusDeportes pic.twitter.com/f89ZwoviQY

— UFC Español (@UFCEspanol) February 4, 2026

Malhadinho accepted the fight at the last minute.

Jailton Malhadinho after his UFC victory (Photo: Instagram)

Despite being one of the top names in the division and holding the sixth position in the rankings, the Brazilian accepted the fight as a replacement for Ryan Spann , who was originally scheduled to face the Russian but ended up getting injured about 20 days before the duel. Given that this is an unusual move considering Kuniev is not ranked, the jiu-jitsu black belt highlighted the advantages brought by the negotiation with the UFC.

“The UFC offered a contract renewal along with this fight, so my manager and I accepted. Regardless of whether I have a fight scheduled or not, I'm always training every day. Nobody accepted, but we did, and now I'm here representing Brazil,” stated the fighter, who also said he didn't experience any difficulties preparing in such a short timeframe.

Alex Poatan in the heavyweight division

Jailton Malhadinho and Alex Poatan . Photo: Reproduction 'X'

When discussing the possibility of Alex Poatan transitioning to the heavyweight category (up to 120,2 kg) in order to compete for an unprecedented third belt , Malhadinho said he believes the São Paulo native will adapt smoothly, mainly due to the champion's style.

“I think his weight is very good for the category. He’ll stay fast. He’s a guy you can’t mess around with. Everyone knows who Poatan is. He’s very dangerous, he goes for the knockout. I think he’ll do well in the heavyweight division. He’ll gain little weight, probably stay at 112 kg or 113 kg. He’ll get faster and if the guys let him face them, he’ll knock them out,” said the fighter from Bahia, who denied any interest in facing him because they are both Brazilian.

Returning to light heavyweight?

Jailton Malhadinho at the UFC weigh-in (Photo: Reproduction/YouTube)

When asked about the possibility of changing weight classes in the future, Malhadinho was honest in admitting the difficulties brought about by the weight cut necessary to reach 93 kg. Although he doesn't usually go close to the division limit, he ruled out the possibility of returning to double digits.

"It doesn't cross my mind (to go back to 93 kg), I suffered too much. Both to make weight and at home. I couldn't perform as well," summarized the Brazilian, who defeated Danilo Marques in the division now dominated by Poatan, in addition to winning his Contender Series contract in a fight valid for the same category.

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