Top Undefeated UFC Bantamweight Reveals He’s Risking Everything at UFC 329

Farid Basharat has done just about everything asked of him since joining the UFC, compiling a spotless 15-0 professional record while winning all six of his Octagon appearances. When he walks out to UFC 329 later this month, the undefeated bantamweight will be fighting with more than his unbeaten streak on the line.

The 28-year-old is set to compete in the final bout of his current UFC contract, meaning he'll be fighting on two fronts: One against his opponent, and another against the uncertainty surrounding his future with the promotion. 

Farid Basharat Hopes UFC 329 Performance Secures Future

Despite holding the longest active winning streak in the bantamweight division, the Afghan-born Brit admitted his immediate future remains uncertain. He revealed that his priority is simple: put together another statement performance and earn a new contract before turning his attention toward ranked opponents.

“This is going to be the last fight on my contract so I’m hoping it does reward me,” Basharat told MMA Fighting during a recent exclusive. “I’m hoping I go out there and have a good performance and then as it stands because (Sean) O’Malley beat (Aiemann) Zahabi, I do have the longest win streak in the bantamweight division.”

“So I'm hoping to go out there, beat this guy and get rewarded with a new contract. Hopefully, the next opponent is going to be a step up. That's the plan.”

While fighters often negotiate extensions before their deals expire, Basharat explained that wasn't an option this time around. Instead, the UFC wants him to compete first before revisiting contract discussions. That uncertainty has only heightened the stakes heading into one of the year's biggest cards.

Brother's UFC Exit Serves as Reminder of What's at Stake

Basharat knows better than most that winning doesn't always guarantee another opportunity. Earlier this year, his older brother Javid Basharat earned a victory over Gianni Vazquez in the final fight of his own UFC deal. Despite having his hand raised, the promotion ultimately chose not to extend the fighter's contract.

That experience, in turn, has made Farid fully aware of the risk he's taking.

"It's a gamble," the fighter admitted. "If it were up to me, I'd re-sign straight away because ultimately the UFC is where everybody wants to be. I love being here. I enjoy fighting here on this stage. The company has always been good to me. My goal was always to be the UFC champion, and I feel like I'm on my way."

"But here we are. July 11, I go out there on one of the biggest cards of the year and have a great performance. I think I'll be undeniable to re-sign."

Basharat said he has already discussed the situation with his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, and remains confident that another impressive win will leave the UFC with little choice but to keep him around.

Late Change for Farid Basharat at UFC 329

Originally, Basharat was scheduled to face the highly regarded prospect Ethyn Ewing at UFC 329, but Ewing withdrew due to injury. Although his opponent has changed, Basharat's approach hasn't.

He believes another victory would extend his unbeaten record to 16-0 and strengthen his case for bigger opportunities inside the division.

"For myself, I feel like I've already proven I belong in the UFC," Basharat said. "I have the longest win streak. They've been tough guys. They've been tough guys and now I'm fighting another tough guy who many people are touting as the next contender or champion or superstar."

"I go out and win, seven fight win streak, 16-0 before turning 29 even, surely you'd think this is somebody the company would want to keep."

Currently, he is 7-0 in the promotion, with six of his seven bouts ending with decision wins. For now, though, Basharat isn't allowing the contract situation to distract him - "My whole mentality is control what you can control. If it's not in my hands, why worry about it?"