UFC 327 fight grades reveal a proper belter that’s dragged the promotion out of its 2026 slump and reminded everyone why the octagon remains combat sports’ pinnacle. This card delivered everything—drama, knockouts, comebacks, and a retirement that’ll have you reaching for the tissues.
Fight Grades Highlight Heavyweight War for the Ages
Josh Hokit versus Curtis Blaydes earned the only A+ on the UFC 327 fight grades, and rightfully so. These heavyweights battered each other senseless for fifteen minutes in what’ll go down as one of the most brutal slugfests in MMA history. Hokit’s combination punching destroyed Blaydes’ face within the opening minutes, yet the former wrestler refused to fold. Instead, he came roaring back, hurting Hokit repeatedly in return.
The numbers tell the story—351 significant strikes landed across three rounds, smashing the heavyweight record previously held by Daniel Cormier and Stipe Miocic from their five-round championship bout in 2019. How this war went the distance remains one of combat sports’ great mysteries.
Championship Drama and Career Endings
Meanwhile, Carlos Ulberg’s unlikely championship victory over Jiří Procházka earned an A grade despite the new champion badly injuring his leg early. Procházka sensed blood and began chopping away with calf kicks, but hubris proved his downfall. A perfectly timed left hook from the hobbled Ulberg sent the former champion crashing, leading to a dramatic first-round finish that nobody saw coming.
Cub Swanson’s farewell performance against Landwehr also earned an A grade. The 42-year-old veteran wouldn’t be denied in his final octagon appearance, walking through a battle-tested opponent to secure a first-round TKO. After 22 years in professional MMA, Swanson couldn’t have scripted a better ending.
Supporting Cast Delivers Quality Entertainment
Aaron Pico finally lived up to his potential against Pitbull, earning an A- grade with a masterclass in mixed martial arts. His striking, wrestling, and patience were outstanding, particularly in the second round where he completely dominated the former two-division Bellator champion. This performance suggests Pico might finally realise those lofty expectations placed upon him years ago.
However, not every bout hit the mark. The only blemish came from Dominick Reyes versus Johnny Walker—a shocking F grade for what should’ve been fireworks between two explosive light heavyweights. Instead, fans witnessed a miserable sparring session that felt more like an aberration than the norm.
Taking that fight as a mulligan, UFC 327 delivered exactly what the promotion needed after a sluggish start to 2026. The card set the bar extraordinarily high for every event that follows, proving once again why the octagon remains combat sports’ ultimate proving ground.