Brandon Jenkins is far from done. After a long journey through the world of mixed martial arts, he’s stepping into the spotlight once again, this time with a thrilling matchup on the horizon. With over 30 amateur fights under his belt—many of which remain unrecorded due to their unsanctioned nature—Jenkins is ready to showcase his skills on a major platform.
The 34-year-old fighter, who boasts a professional record of 16 wins and 11 losses, may not have been the face of the UFC, but he’s certainly a sought-after talent across various promotions. His exciting fighting style has kept fans engaged since his amateur debut in 2010, and now he’s set to headline Most Valuable Promotions’ inaugural MMA event this Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, where he will face Chris Avila, who holds a record of 8 wins and 9 losses.
Reflecting on his journey, Jenkins shared his passion for experiences that come with fighting. “I grew up in a small town and had to book my own fights,” he recalled. “I’d call promoters and arrange to fight in beautiful locations. It felt like a vacation every time.” This zest for adventure fuels his excitement as he prepares for his upcoming fight.
Jenkins has fought in various organizations, including the UFC, PFL, and Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA, alongside numerous regional promotions. Recently, he was gearing up for a bout against Dillon Danis, which was set to take place in Qatar under the Misfits banner. Unfortunately, that fight was scrapped due to political unrest in the region. Just when it seemed like the winds of change were blowing, Netflix entered the scene, offering Jenkins a new opportunity that reignited his competitive spirit.
“My management reached out and said, ‘Check your email and sign this contract,’” Jenkins laughed. “When I found out it was with Netflix, I was blown away.”
Despite a quieter year in 2026, Jenkins has been revitalized by these new prospects. He has also embraced a coaching role at Syndicate MMA in Las Vegas, where he’s been sharing his wealth of knowledge with the next generation of fighters.
His coach, John Wood, has instilled in him a philosophy that resonates deeply: never say you’re retired. “He’s in his mid-40s and insists he’s not done fighting,” Jenkins explained. “He believes that if the right opportunity comes along, he’d jump at it without a second thought. I feel the same way. I’m not going to use the R-word. There’s always a chance for something special to come my way.”
As Jenkins looks to carve out his legacy in the sport, he aims to emulate fighters like Davey Grant, known for their thrilling performances. What lies ahead for Jenkins as he continues to embrace the unpredictable nature of his career?
