Kai Kamaka III returns to UFC with split decision win

After nearly 5 years away, the fighter overcame a head clash to pick up the victory.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and strikes of a UFC fighter in an abstract, cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the intense action and physicality of Kai Kamaka III's UFC return fight.Las Vegas Today

Kai Kamaka III made his long-awaited return to the UFC on short notice at UFC Fight Night 272, taking a split decision victory over Dakota Hope. Kamaka said a bad head clash in the first round affected him the rest of the way, but he was determined to push through and get the win in his first UFC appearance since 2021.

Why it matters

Kamaka's return to the UFC after several years competing in other promotions like Bellator and the PFL is a significant milestone in his career. His ability to overcome adversity and earn a victory on short notice demonstrates his resilience and commitment to the sport.

The details

Kamaka (18-7-1 MMA, 2-2-1 UFC) took a split decision from Hope (11-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) to open the prelims at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas. Kamaka said a bad head clash in the first round affected him the rest of the way, but he was determined to push through and get the win in his first UFC appearance since 2021.

  • Kamaka returned to the UFC after nearly five years away in Bellator, the PFL and Tuff-N-Uff.
  • The fight took place on April 7, 2026 at UFC Fight Night 272 in Las Vegas.

The players

Kai Kamaka III

A UFC fighter who returned to the promotion after nearly 5 years away, competing in other organizations like Bellator and the PFL.

Dakota Hope

Kamaka's opponent, who made his UFC debut in the fight against Kamaka.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was having a hard time getting my rhythm after the first round. We had the clash of heads, and it was solid. The next couple shots came to the back of my head, too, on the ground. But I was like, 'You've just got to work through this.' I've been through harder.”

— Kai Kamaka III, UFC Fighter

The takeaway

Kamaka's return to the UFC after several years away demonstrates his perseverance and ability to overcome adversity. His split decision victory over a debuting opponent on short notice is an impressive feat that should earn him more opportunities in the promotion going forward.