While an official announcement from Zuffa or Paramount+ is still awaited, the match is expected to take place in March 2026. Obadiah, the undefeated IBF reigning champion, recently finalized a deal with Zuffa to expand his presence in the United States. This is Zuffa’s fourth fight.
A High Test for the Champion
Brandon Glanton, known for his consistent “Bulletproof” style, is coming off a strong build from the end of 2025. He scored a sixth round victory over Marcus Browne, a victory that helped strengthen his position after a 12 round unanimous decision loss to Chris Billam-Smith earlier that year.
At 33 years old and ranked #15 by the IBF, Glanton represents the durable type, coming in front of the opponent that Obadiah has often faced in recent defenses. Although early sentiments suggest the South Australians will be more favored, Glanton’s ability to consistently apply pressure could provide an entertaining style for the Zuffa’s debut.
If these reports are true, this match follows a special plan for the early days of Zuffa Boxing. Obadiah is arguably the best cruiserweight on the planet, but he needs the right form to become a household name in America. Choosing an American powerhouse like Glanton ensures that Obadiah’s genius is tested by someone who won’t back down.
Although some critics may argue that this is not the “great war” that everyone wants to see, it is a necessary bridge. By staying strong against a competitor, Obadiah strengthens his tools while continuing to develop the business side of a partnership with someone like Chris Billam-Smith or Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. For now, we wait for the ink to dry, but March and Glanton seem to be the way the wind blows.