According to information from the reputable MMA resource Tapology, Orolbay uulu is ranked 17th, making him an attractive candidate for bouts against higher-profile opponents.
Rematch with Urosh Medic
In his debut fight for Orolbay uulu in the UFC in November 2023, he faced Serbian fighter Urosh Medic, winning by submission (neck crank) in the second round. Since then, Medic has fought five times, winning four of them by knockout in the first round, and suffering one defeat.
In his last fight, Medic defeated American Jeff Neil by knockout. He is currently ranked 12th in the welterweight division. A rematch with Medic could provide Orolbay uulu with an excellent opportunity to break into the top 15.
Jeff Neil
Jeff Neil, representing the USA, has been competing in the UFC since 2018 and was long among the top 15 fighters in the division. However, after a heavy knockout loss to Medic, he dropped out of the rankings.
His performance against Kazakh fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov was significant, as Neil was able to create serious problems in striking. A bout with him could open the path for Myktybek into the top 15.
Michael Chiesa
Michael Chiesa, a UFC veteran since 2012, is known for his fights against notable opponents such as Anthony Pettis and Tony Ferguson. His main advantage is his high level of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which allows him to secure most of his victories through submissions and chokes. Despite being 38 years old, he is on a three-fight winning streak.
Chiesa's next fight is scheduled for March 28, and if successful, a bout with Orolbay uulu could be organized during the summer at a tournament in Abu Dhabi or Baku.
Kevin Holland
Kevin Holland, competing in the UFC since 2018, has made a name for himself with his spectacular fights. He has faced well-known fighters, including Joaquin Buckley and Khamzat Chimaev.
His best achievements came in 2020 when he secured four consecutive victories. However, his results became less stable afterward, and he fell out of the top 15. Holland has also competed in two weight classes — welterweight and middleweight.
His style makes him a versatile fighter, but against strong strikers, he often finds himself in a disadvantageous position, especially in grappling. An example of this is his fight with Khamzat Chimaev, where Chimaev demonstrated his superiority. For Orolbay uulu, Holland could be a suitable opponent.
Yoel Alvarez
Spanish fighter Yoel Alvarez, who has been in the UFC since 2019, has fought 10 times, winning 8 of those bouts, including 7 finishes. He has already suffered two defeats — to Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov.
Alvarez, who previously competed in the lightweight division (70 kg), has now moved up to welterweight. In his last fight, he won a unanimous decision against Vicente Luque.
A fight with Alvarez could be significant for both fighters, as neither is currently in the top 15. The winner of this bout could get closer to the elite of the division, considering that Orolbay uulu's grappling could be a decisive factor.
Possible but unlikely opponents
Among the potential opponents for the Kyrgyzstani fighter are former champion Leon Edwards, Michael "Venom" Page, and ex-title challenger Colby Covington. However, their high status and popularity will likely lead them to fight each other.
When could the next fight take place?
The next bout for Orolbay uulu could take place this summer at the UFC Fight Night tournament in Abu Dhabi, which typically occurs in June or July. There is also the possibility of participating in a major UFC tournament in October in the UAE capital, where championship fights traditionally take place.
Additionally, one option could be the UFC tournament in Baku, scheduled for the end of June.
With favorable circumstances, the Kyrgyz fighter could have two more fights this year if he secures a victory in the summer and avoids injuries.
