Josiah Harrell will make his long-awaited UFC debut against Jacobe Smith at UFC Houston, marking one of the remarkable comeback stories in UFC history. The welterweight prospect, who underwent brain surgery after being diagnosed with a rare brain disease in 2023, has earned his shot on the octagon following a powerful 4-0 record since his recovery.
SH Ko out. Jacobe Smith will now fight Josiah Harrell at #UFCHouston on February twenty first. (first rep. @zaclikesmma) #UFC #MMA #UFCParamount #UFConParamount #UFC2026 pic.twitter.com/joNsJ2RWsC
— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) February 13, 2026
Harrell’s journey to the UFC has been anything but conventional. In 2023, the fighter was scheduled to face JDM in what would have been his promotional debut. Nonetheless, during pre-fight medical screenings, doctors discovered a rare brain disease that required immediate attention. The diagnosis forced Harrell to withdraw from the bout and undergo brain surgery, putting his entire fighting profession in jeopardy.
Quite the redemption story unfolding
Josiah Harrell has signed with the UFC, per his coach @IamTheImmortal and manager @ko_reps
Harrell was diagnosed with rare brain disease, detected before a scheduled UFC fight vs. JDM in 2023. He underwent brain surgery and is 4-0 since pic.twitter.com/qvfqvAXI9f
— Nolan King (@mma_kings) February 13, 2026
What makes Harrell’s story particularly inspiring is his determination to return to the game at the very best level. Moderately than accepting defeat, he focused on rehabilitation and eventually received medical clearance to compete again. Since returning to motion, Harrell has been nothing wanting dominant, winning all 4 of his post-surgery fights to prove he belongs among the many elite.
The matchup against Jacobe Smith represents greater than only a debut opportunity, it’s validation of Harrell’s resilience and commitment to his craft. Smith, a tricky and experienced opponent, will test whether Harrell’s recent success translates to the UFC’s vivid lights. For Harrell, nevertheless, the larger battle has already been won. Getting into the octagon after what he’s overcome is a victory in itself.
Fans and fellow fighters have rallied around Harrell’s story, recognizing the courage it takes to return to a combat sport after brain surgery. His journey serves as inspiration not only to aspiring fighters but to anyone facing seemingly insurmountable odds. While the final result of his debut stays uncertain, Harrell has already proven he’s a fighter in every sense of the word.
As UFC Houston approaches, all eyes shall be on Harrell’s walk to the octagon. Win or lose, his presence represents the indomitable spirit that defines mixed martial arts at its best.
Confirmed Fights for UFC Houston
UFC Houston Primary Event on Paramount+:
- 185 lbs.: Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez
UFC Houston Primary Card on Paramount+ (8 p.m. ET):
- 170 lbs.: Geoff Neal vs. Uros Medic
- 145 lbs.: Melquizael Costa vs. Dan Ige
- 265 lbs.: Ante Delija vs. Serghei Spivac
- 185 lbs.: Michel Pereira vs. Zach Reese
UFC Houston Preliminary Card On Paramount+ (5 p.m. ET):
- 170 lbs.: Josiah Harrell vs. Jacobe Smith
- 170 lbs.: Carlos Leal vs. Chidi Njokuani
- 125 lbs.: Alibi Idiris vs. Ode Osbourne
- 125 lbs.: Alden Coria vs. Luis Gurule
- 135 lbs.: Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne Edwards
- 170 lbs.: Ramiz Brahimaj vs. Punahele Soriano
- 170 lbs.: Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani vs. Phil Rowe
- 145 lbs.: Yadier del Valle vs. Jordan Leavitt
- 125 lbs.: Carli Judice vs. Juliana Miller