Zachary Reese


Zachary Patrick Reese is an American mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Background

Reese was born in Houston, Texas before he moved to Shiner. He worked in the oil fields as a well tester, juggling punishing 90-hour shifts away from home with early-morning and late-night training to keep his dream alive.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Reese started his amateur career during 2012–2021, he amassed a 4–1 record in amateur. He turned pro in 2021, in an American regional circuit, Perk Fighting and Fury Fighting Championship, where he acquired a 5–0 record before his fight at Dana White's Contender Series.

Dana White's Contender Series

Reese was invited to the Dana White's Contender Series, he faced Eli Aronov at week 3 of DWCS season 7 on August 22, 2023. He won the fight via an armbar in round one and he was awarded a UFC contract.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

In his UFC debut, Reese faced Cody Brundage on December 2, 2023, at UFC on ESPN 52. He lost the fight by first round knockout due to a slam and punches.
Reese faced Julian Marquez on June 8, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 57. He lost the fight by technical knockout in 20 seconds into the first round. This fight earned him his first Performance of the Night award.
Reese faced José Medina on August 24, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 62. He won the fight via unanimous decision.
Reese was scheduled to face Sedriques Dumas on January 18, 2025, at UFC 311. However, Dumas pulled out during fight week and was replaced by Azamat Bekoev. He lost the fight via knockout in round one.
Reese faced Duško Todorović on
May 31, 2025, at UFC on ESPN 68. He won the fight via unanimous decision.
Reese faced Sedriques Dumas on September 13, 2025, at UFC Fight Night 259. The fight ended in no-contest after an unintentional groin kick by Reese rendered Dumas unable to continue.
After Robert Valentin's injured and Donte Johnson was not cleared to compete by the Nevada Athletic Commission, Reese stepped in to face Jackson McVey in a 195 pounds bout on November 8, 2025, at UFC Fight Night 264. He won the fight via a rear-naked choke in round two. This fight earned him another Performance of the Night award.
Reese is scheduled to face Michel Pereira on February 21, 2026 at UFC Fight Night 267.

Championships and accomplishments

  • Ultimate Fighting Championship
  • *Performance of the Night

    Mixed martial arts record