Rookie Report Card: Grading all Octagon newcomers UFC 318 post-mortem

You only get one Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) debut!

Two athletes debuted in “The Big Easy” last night (Sat., July 19, 2025) at UFC 318 inside Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. UFC’s latest batch of newbies went 1-1.

Now that the dust has settled, let’s grade their super short-notice performance below:

Islam Dulatov

Islam Dulatov was the last fighter from Season 8 of the Contender Series to make his UFC debut, but it was worth the wait. He showcased his devastating striking, styling on Adam Fugitt and eventually knocking him out with a precise check left hook followed by relentless ground-and-pound (watch highlights).

In just four minutes, Dulatov displayed crisp boxing, seemingly unable to miss Fugitt’s head with his right hand. Alongside his boxing, he unleashed his signature knees, which he uses frequently—whether it’s a step-in knee or a clinch knee.

Dulatov’s takedown defense was equally impressive, proving impenetrable against Fugitt’s attempts.

The only blemish was a moment of overreaching on a punch, which left him vulnerable to a hard low kick that briefly disrupted his balance. If this is the sole critique, his performance was near flawless.

Yes, Dulatov was the biggest favorite on the card, and though Fugitt has proven durable—taking Michael Morales three rounds to stop him—Dulatov finished him in just four minutes.

Questions linger about Dulatov’s stamina, as all but one of his victories have come in the first round. Until an opponent can weather his early onslaught and push him into deeper waters, his endurance remains untested.

Final Grade: A+

Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC

Jackson McVey

Jackson McVey finally made his UFC debut at UFC 318 after losing two opponents at UFC 317, which led to his fight being canceled. Unfortunately, his debut ended in disappointment as he was submitted in the first round via armbar by Brunno Ferreira.

Standing at 6’4”, McVey is a towering middleweight, but his physical advantages meant little against a shorter opponent who dominated once the fight hit the mat. McVey attempted to use front kicks to manage distance and briefly initiated a takedown, but things unraveled quickly. Ferreira used his strength to stand up swiftly and then slammed McVey back to the ground.

Ferreira sliced through McVey’s guard effortlessly, securing a full mount with ease. McVey survived an arm triangle attempt, but Ferreira seamlessly transitioned to an armbar, forcing the tap.

To be honest, it was a lackluster showing for McVey, even if it was against a highly skilled and underrated opponent like Ferreira. McVey’s cautious approach, limited offensive output, and inability to counter Ferreira’s aggression led to his downfall.

Despite the loss, McVey could still find success in the middleweight division, where a few less formidable fighters compete, but nothing is guaranteed. Ultimately, for a hyped prospect with a perfect record, McVey’s UFC 318 performance was underwhelming.

Final grade: F

For complete UFC 318 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.