Polish middleweight standout Michal Oleksiejczuk returns to the Octagon today, February 07, 2026, for a high-stakes matchup against Marc-Andre Barriault at UFC Vegas 113. Known by his moniker “Hussar,” the 30-year-old southpaw is looking to extend his current momentum following a successful 2025 campaign that saw him secure back-to-back stoppage victories.
Fight Preview: Oleksiejczuk vs. Barriault
Entering the cage with a professional record of 21-9-0 (1 NC), Oleksiejczuk has established himself as one of the most reliable finishers in the UFC’s 185-pound division. Analysts have noted his aggressive, pressure-heavy style, often setting the tone early with devastating body shots and left-hand combinations. For today’s bout at the UFC Apex, Oleksiejczuk enters as a significant betting favorite, with some sportsbooks listing him as high as -485.
His opponent, Marc-Andre Barriault, is expected to provide a durable test. However, experts suggest that Oleksiejczuk’s recent affiliation with the “Fighting Nerds” team has added a new layer of technical refinement to his raw power. “I added some quality and have become a much better fighter than I was in my last fight,” Oleksiejczuk stated during his fight week interview.
Recent Career Highlights and Stats
After a difficult stretch in 2024, including a notable loss to Kevin Holland, Oleksiejczuk found his stride in 2025. His most recent performances include:
- UFC 319 (August 16, 2025): Defeated Gerald Meerschaert via TKO (Punches) at 3:03 of the first round.
- UFC 314 (April 12, 2025): Secured a dominant stoppage victory to snap a previous losing skid.
Standing 6′ 0″ with a 74-inch reach, the former Thunderstrike Fight League Light Heavyweight Champion has successfully transitioned to middleweight, where his speed and volume striking (SLpM) often overwhelm opponents. Of his 21 professional wins, 16 have come by way of knockout, underscoring his reputation as a “no-nonsense” striker.
What is at Stake Today?
A victory today would mark a three-fight winning streak for the Polish fighter, likely propelling him toward a top-15 ranked opponent in the middleweight division. With the UFC Vegas 113 main card headlined by Bautista vs. Oliveira, Oleksiejczuk’s placement on the main card highlights the promotion’s confidence in his ability to deliver fan-friendly action.
Fans can watch Michal Oleksiejczuk compete today on ESPN+ as he looks to solidify his status as a dark horse in the middleweight title picture.