MMA legend confirms UFC talks, potentially becoming one of the oldest signings ever

Juan Archuleta is 38 and still waiting for his first fight in the UFC.

He has put together a strong career in MMA, holding bantamweight titles in both Bellator and RIZIN, along with being a four-division champion in King of the Cage.

He recently defended his BORROKA featherweight title at XFC 53, where he submitted former UFC fighter Jose Johnson in two rounds.

Following his win, Archuleta expressed his desire to join the UFC, specifically calling out top contenders like Diego Lopes and Dan Ige.

“Made the statement that I needed to make.

“Showed them that I outclassed him and that I don’t need these tune-up fights anymore.

“I need to be signed,” Archuleta said in an interview with Destiny McCubbin.

“I need to fight top 10 right away…”

Archuleta also revealed plans to meet soon with UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby, who was there to watch the main event unfold.

“Thankfully, Sean [Shelby] was in the stands, and he said let’s talk Monday, and we’ll book something from there.”

The UFC have a history of signing older fighters

James Toney, who was signed just after turning 42 in 2010, is one of the oldest fighters to have joined the UFC.

The former boxing champion had only one fight in the UFC, facing Randy Couture and losing by submission in the first round.

That same year, Mark Hunt made his UFC debut at age 36. He went on to have a long run with the promotion.

Patricio Pitbull debuted at 37 earlier this year. Meanwhile, Mandel Nallo, 36, earned a contract but is yet to have his first fight scheduled.