When Jamahal Hill claimed the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 283 by defeating Glover Teixeira, many fans anticipated a fresh chapter in the division. However, destiny had different plans. Just six months later, at the age of 34, Hill had to relinquish his title after suffering a ruptured Achilles during a basketball game. After a lengthy recovery, Hill made his return to the Octagon in April 2024, but his comeback has not unfolded as hoped.
The former champion has faced a series of challenges, struggling to regain his form and recently experiencing another loss at UFC Baku. Hill has now indicated that he will be out of competition for an extended period once again, having already undergone significant surgeries, with more procedures scheduled soon.
Jamahal Hill Discusses Knee Surgery
Since returning to the Octagon in April 2024, Hill’s comeback trail has been rocky. His return fight resulted in a devastating knockout by Alex Pereira at UFC 300. Unfortunately, things didn’t improve from there.
At UFC 311 in January 2025, Hill faced another stoppage loss against former champion Jiri Prochazka. Most recently, at UFC Baku, he suffered his third consecutive defeat, as Khalil Rountree Jr. dominated him over five rounds, delivering multiple knockdowns in a one-sided fight.
In a recent discussion with James Lynch from Home of Fight, Hill addressed his future, the possibility of a rematch with Prochazka, and his ongoing health issues. He revealed that his knees are in critical condition, sharing that he underwent a cartilage transplant after doctors discovered that one knee’s cartilage had deteriorated entirely.
🚨🦵 Jamahal Hill is out until late 2026 due to knee surgery. He confirmed that he had virtually no cartilage in his knee, hindering his mobility in the Octagon:
“Apparently the cartilage in my knee was basically non-existent. There were some pretty bad… pic.twitter.com/AMRlClqnzy
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) October 25, 2025
Currently ranked #6 in the light heavyweight division, Hill is eyeing a return at the end of 2026, hoping to be fully recovered. Another medical procedure is also on the horizon. Hill stated, “With this getting done, it’s something I’ve been trying to avoid because I wanted to get my belt back.”
After three straight losses and a significant injury setback, some fans have speculated about Hill possibly retiring. Nevertheless, the former champion quickly dismissed any retirement rumors, asserting, “I ain’t really worried about it, bro. My skills and performance speak for themselves whenever I step in there.”
