Mikey Musumeci drops UFC BJJ title to ‘prioritize’ MMA, ends serious jiujitsu career

Mikey Musumeci has officially vacated his UFC BJJ bantamweight title to shift his focus toward mixed martial arts. The 30-year-old grappling standout announced on social media that he has achieved all his goals in gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu, intending to prioritize MMA training. While closing his serious competitive jiu-jitsu career, Musumeci confirmed he still plans to participate in high-profile grappling superfights and crossover matches under the UFC BJJ banner.

Writer Anton Tabuena argues that Musumeci's exit highlights matchmaking shortcomings during his promotional stint, where he rarely faced elite champions. Following the vacancy, the promotion announced that Musumeci's teammate Jalen Fonacier will face promotional newcomer Kleber Barboza for the vacant bantamweight title at UFC BJJ 13 on October 29.