Payton Anthony Talbott

MMA Bantamweight (135 lbs)

Payton Talbott is an American bantamweight fighter from Reno, Nevada, who reached the UFC through Dana White’s Contender Series. He is known for his aggressive stand-up, quick finishes, and developing grappling skills.

Profile

The story

Talbott began training in 2017 and remained undefeated as an amateur with a 5-0 record. He won the KOTC amateur championship twice and captured the A1 Combat bantamweight title as a professional, defending it twice.

In August 2023, he earned a UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series. In the UFC, he recorded victories over Nick Aguirre, Cameron Saaiman, Yanis Ghemmouri, Felipe Lima, and former two-time champion Henry Cejudo. His two Performance of the Night bonuses underscore his reputation as an explosive finisher.

In the ring

Fighting style

Aggressive stand-up style with impressive knockout power, fast combinations, and strong forward pressure. Talbott is also developing his grappling and well-rounded MMA game.

Results

Performance

Two-time KOTC amateur bantamweight champion. A1 Combat bantamweight champion with two title defenses. UFC Performance of the Night bonuses for victories over Cameron Saaiman and Yanis Ghemmouri. Victory over former two-time UFC champion Henry Cejudo.

Over the years

Timeline

September 9, 1998: Born in Las Vegas.
2017: Begins MMA training.
2017 to 2021: Undefeated amateur period with a record of 5-0 and two KOTC amateur championships.
2021: Turns professional and wins the A1 Combat bantamweight title.
August 2023: Earns a UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series with a victory over Reyes Cortez Jr.
November 18, 2023: Makes his UFC debut with a victory over Nick Aguirre.
March 23, 2024: Defeats Cameron Saaiman and receives a Performance of the Night bonus.
June 29, 2024: Defeats Yanis Ghemmouri by knockout in 19 seconds and receives a Performance of the Night bonus.
January 18, 2025: Loses to Raoni Barcelos.
June 28, 2025: Defeats Felipe Lima.
December 6, 2025: Defeats Henry Cejudo.

Influence

Legacy

Talbott is regarded as a promising American bantamweight with an impressive start in the UFC. His quick knockouts, two performance bonuses, and victory over Henry Cejudo are the main milestones of his career so far. His ultimate legacy has yet to be built.