Tai Tuivasa Ties UFC Record with Eighth Loss: What’s Next for the Heavyweight?

Tai Tuivasa’s nightmare inside the octagon continued on Saturday night at UFC 331. The Australian heavyweight dropped a split decision to Robelis Despaigne, extending his losing streak to eight consecutive fights. That defeat ties him with Tony Ferguson for the longest losing streak in UFC history.

Tuivasa’s streak began after a knockout win over Derrick Lewis in February 2022. What followed was a brutal stretch of losses against heavyweights including Ciryl Gane, Sergei Pavlovich, and Alexander Volkov. The Australian fan favorite has not raised his hand in victory in over four years.

Ferguson previously held the record alone after dropping eight straight fights. The former interim lightweight champion was released from the UFC in January 2025 following his loss to Michael Chiesa. Ferguson’s skid included defeats to elite competition like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Paddy Pimblett.

Despaigne’s Redemption Arc

Robelis Despaigne entered UFC 331 as a significant question mark despite his recent success. The Cuban striker was released by the UFC in 2024 after back-to-back losses. He then rebuilt his career in Karate Combat, capturing the heavyweight championship.

Despaigne returned to MMA competition in May 2026 with a first-round knockout of former UFC champion Junior dos Santos during the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano MVP MMA Netflix card.

That victory earned him a second chance with the promotion. Against Tuivasa, Despaigne showcased improved grappling and control, neutralizing the Australian’s power throughout the fight.

For Despaigne, the victory marks a successful return and improves his UFC record to 2-2. The 38-year-old called out Francis Ngannou after his win over dos Santos, but with Dana White sternly against Ngannou’s UFC return, that fight may never come.

What Comes Next

Tuivasa’s future with the UFC is now in serious doubt following his eighth straight defeat. The 33-year-old has remained a popular figure with fans, which has afforded him opportunities others might not receive. Matching Ferguson’s record, however, raises legitimate questions about whether the promotion will retain him.

Tuivasa has not yet publicly commented on his record-tying loss. Whether the UFC chooses to keep him on the roster or allow him to pursue opportunities elsewhere remains an open question.

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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the MMA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.