Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill has announced he is moving up to the heavyweight division permanently.
The 35-year-old revealed the decision on his podcast on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, following a three-fight losing streak.
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Hill has spent recent months adding muscle mass to transition from the 205-pound class, where he won the title by defeating Glover Teixeira at UFC 283 in January 2023.
Dual Championship Ambition
Hill explained that his motivation is to become a two-division champion rather than reclaim his former belt.
“I’m going to Heavyweight,” Hill said. “Wouldn’t it be better if I came back and won the Heavyweight title?
Double champ is better than two-time champ.”
Upon entering the weight class, Hill immediately called out rising contender Josh Hokit, who holds a 10-0 record after knocking out Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250.
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“That’s exactly the fight I want,” Hill said. “Former UFC champion, come on.
Come get some.”
Hill has not competed since undergoing knee surgery after a loss last June at UFC Baku.
His recent setbacks include defeats against Alex Pereira, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
He joins Johnny Walker and Aleksandar Rakic in moving up to heavyweight.
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Hill aims to return late this year at Madison Square Garden, with early 2027 as an alternative.
