Aleksei Oleinik is one of MMA’s seasoned veterans, with a career full of stories dating back to his first professional bout in 1996. Over the years, he amassed multiple victories in the UFC, earning enough to significantly grow his bank account—only to eventually lose it all.
Of his 61 career wins, nine came under the UFC banner. His first was in 2014 against Anthony Hamilton, and his most recent was a 2022 submission victory over Jared Vanderaa, which earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.
Unfortunately, later that year, he suffered a loss to Ilir Latifi. Oleinik once revealed his career earnings totaled $712,000—a modest sum for a veteran of his caliber. However, in a recent confession for Match TV, he admitted that he has none of it left, saying, “I am left with no property, without anything else. Everything I had I left to my ex-wife and children.”
To make matters worse, Oleinik acknowledges that his age and health now prevent him from competing at the same level and earning the kind of money he once did. Reflecting on his situation, he shared, “I can’t compete due to my age and health conditions and make the same money for my fights.” He also believes this contributed to his divorce, adding, “That’s probably why she left me. When she filed for divorce about a half a year ago, I was trying to change her mind, I was trying to save the family.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 18: In this UFC handout, Aleksei Oleinik of Russia poses on the scale during the UFC weigh-in at UFC APEX on June 18, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Oleinik most recent fights and career record
Oleinik boasts an impressive MMA career with a professional record of 61 wins, 18 losses, and 1 draw. Renowned for his grappling expertise, Oleinik has secured 48 of his victories via submission, showcasing his mastery in multiples techniques. Despite his longevity in the sport, his career has seen its share of challenges, with 10 losses by knockout and 6 by submission.
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Since 2020, Oleinik’s journey has been a mix of highs and lows. He achieved notable wins, such as his submission victory over Jared Vanderaa at UFC 273 in 2022, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. However, he also faced tough defeats, including losses to Derrick Lewis, Chris Daukaus, and Ilir Latifi. His most recent fight in December 2023 saw him return to form with a submission win against Fernando Rodrigues Jr. at RCC 17.
