Yanal Ashmoz

Yanal 'Red Fox' Ashmoz is an Israeli lightweight who arrived in the UFC in March 2023 as a hungry prospect looking to prove himself on MMA's biggest stage. Coming off a four-year layoff from professional competition, he made an explosive entrance by knocking out Sam Patterson in just 1:15 of the first round at UFC 286, showcasing the kind of explosive power that has defined much of his career. Since turning pro in 2017, Ashmoz has compiled an 8-2-0 record punctuated by four knockout victories and two submission wins, demonstrating a well-rounded striking and grappling arsenal.

At 30 years old and standing 5'9" with a 68-inch reach, Ashmoz is a striking-first competitor who lands significant strikes primarily from distance and the clinch while showing strong takedown defense at 64%. His wrestling remains a work in progress (just one successful takedown in 26 attempts), but his submission finishing ability, anchored by rear-naked choke victories, gives him paths to finish opponents on the ground when the opportunity presents itself. His UFC record sits at 2-2 following a unanimous decision loss to Quillan Salkilld in June 2025, a step back after he had steadied himself with a win over Trevor Peek in September 2024.

Ashmoz carries an underdog narrative and quiet determination: he worked factory and construction jobs while fighting, holding an Israeli jiu-jitsu championship and credits his drive to his humble upbringing. His stated goal is clear and ambitious: climb the lightweight ranks and capture the UFC belt. Whether his knockout power and submission skills can overcome the setbacks and close out wins at the next level of competition remains the open question for this developing prospect.