Jack Hermansson Makes Bold Move to Welterweight for UFC Qatar Showdown
Jack Hermansson, a seasoned UFC Middleweight contender, is making a significant career move by transitioning to the Welterweight division. This change comes as he prepares to fight rising prospect Myktybek Orolbai on November 22, 2025, at UFC Qatar, held at the ABHA Arena in Doha, Qatar.
Jack Hermansson’s Career Shift
Hermansson, who holds a professional record of 24 wins and 9 losses, has spent nearly a decade competing at 185 pounds. Over the course of 18 fights in the Middleweight category, he has faced a challenging sequence of alternating victories and defeats. His recent knockout loss to Gregory Rodrigues was a pivotal moment that prompted him to reevaluate his career trajectory.
Reasons for the Move
At 37 years old, Hermansson believes this transition to 170 pounds could be his final opportunity to achieve a significant breakthrough in his career. “I misread his punch and got caught,” he explained during the UFC Qatar media day. “I needed to do something different, which is why the thoughts of going down to the Welterweight division came up.”
Hermansson expressed frustration with his inconsistent performance in the Middleweight division. “I don’t want to look back at my career feeling like I didn’t do everything possible to find success,” he stated.
The Weight Cut Experience
As he embarks on this new chapter, Hermansson is adjusting to the challenges of cutting weight. “It’s going well now, and it’s been a learning process,” he acknowledged. He noted that restricting his calorie intake while training is unfamiliar territory for him, having previously enjoyed a more unrestricted diet.
“Now I’m suffering … and someone is going to have to pay for it,” he remarked, indicating his determination to make this shift successful.
Myktybek Orolbai’s Challenge
Orolbai, Hermansson’s opponent, is also adjusting his weight class, moving up from Lightweight after struggling with weight in two previous bouts. Although those fights were categorized as catchweights before weigh-ins, his shift to Welterweight adds an interesting dynamic to this matchup.
Predictions and Odds
Entering UFC Qatar, Hermansson is considered a slight underdog with odds at +165. As fans await this intriguing clash, both fighters are set to showcase their skills in a new weight class.
- Event: UFC Qatar
- Date: November 22, 2025
- Location: ABHA Arena, Doha, Qatar
- Jack Hermansson’s Record: 24 wins, 9 losses
- Myktybek Orolbai’s Move: Transitioning up from Lightweight
- Odds for Hermansson: +165
This upcoming fight marks a pivotal moment for both athletes as they navigate their respective transitions within the UFC structure. Fans can anticipate an exciting showdown at UFC Qatar.
