With UFC Paris fast approaching, a new French signing could well materialise in the coming months. Currently under contract with Hexagone MMA and in contention for the final of the €100,000 tournament, Théo Ulrich has already been approached by the UFC.
At the UFC, no two days are the same. For its fifth event in France, the premier organisation has pulled out all the stops. The usual media day took place this Wednesday in the idyllic setting of the Pullman Hotel.
A total of 13 French and international fighters took part. Among them, the new French recruits stood out, notably Michael Aljarouj, a -57kg fighter.
During his appearance, he spoke about his story – that of a Syrian refugee – his personal life and his passions. As the first fighter to come through the Old School Academy, Michael Aljarouj proudly represents his club. However, he insists that other signings will follow in his footsteps.
Speaking to Culture MMA, Michael Aljarouj made no secret of the UFC’s desire to sign his friend and sparring partner, Théo Ulrich :
There’s no doubt about it [who’ll be the next to sign for the UFC] – it’s Théo Ulrich, I’m absolutely certain of it. He’s already been approached by the UFC.
Who is Théo Ulrich really ?
Appearing alongside Michael Aljarouj at UFC Paris, Théo Ulrich first made a name for himself on the French scene when he signed for Hexagone MMA, one of the best French MMA organisations.
In the talent league, the Frenchman has always shone, from his professional debut in 2024 to his most recent fight last May. In the space of two years, the Old School Academy fighter has already fought eight times, without ever losing a single bout.
If Théo Ulrich seems unbeatable, it is also because he can draw on a solid amateur career, which has enabled him to gain the experience essential for competing at the very highest level.
His next bout will be the final of the under-70kg tournament at Hexagone MMA against Davy Gallon (24-10-2-1 NC) on 27 November, in the heart of Rennes. A victory would enable him to further cement his dominance in French MMA and secure his professional career thanks to the €100,000 prize promised to the winner.
A UFC-compatible fighter
More than just your average fighter, he is one of those ‘action fighters’ – a type particularly prized by the UFC. Known for his hard-fought battles, Théo Ulrich is the sort of fighter who doesn’t hesitate to take two blows for every one he lands.
Beyond mere talks, he believes it is only a matter of time before he signs for the UFC :
They’ve already offered me two fights [in the UFC], but I turned them down. There’s 100,000 euros up for grabs [in the Hexagone MMA tournament], so we mustn’t rush things. I’ll take the French step first, and then we’ll see. It all happens so fast, it’s a bit scary, but that’s what we love. – via Le Parcours
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