HOUSTON, 22 February 2026 – UFC welterweight veteran Geoff “Handz of Steel” Neal returned to the Octagon yesterday at UFC Fight Night in Houston, Texas, facing rising prospect Uroš Medić in a high-stakes co-main event. The bout served as a pivotal moment for Neal, who entered the cage following a public revelation regarding his recent sobriety and a five-year battle with addiction.
Latest Updates: UFC Houston Results
On Saturday, 21 February 2026, Geoff Neal successfully defended his #12 ranking against Uroš Medić. Leading up to the fight, Neal had been vocal about his personal transformation, stating in interviews that he is now sober and focused on a final run toward the Welterweight title. The matchup was a classic striker-versus-striker affair, with Neal looking to steady his position in the division after a period of inconsistency.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for the Fortis MMA representative, who had previously declined a high-profile rematch against Kevin Holland to focus on this specific matchup. According to recent reports, Neal weighed in at 170.5 lbs for the contest, appearing in peak physical condition under the guidance of coach Sayif Saud.
Fighter Profile and Career Statistics
Geoff Neal remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the 170-pound division, known for his southpaw stance and knockout power. Below are his career vitals and performance metrics as of February 2026.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Geoffrey Neal |
| Nickname | Handz of Steel |
| Date of Birth | 28 August 1990 |
| Age | 35 |
| Height | 5′ 11″ (180 cm) |
| Weight | 170 lbs (77 kg) |
| Reach | 75″ |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Professional Record | 16-7-0 |
| Team | Fortis MMA |
Career Performance Breakdown
Neal’s career is defined by his finishing ability, particularly his striking. Out of his 16 professional victories, 10 have come via knockout, giving him a 63% TKO rate. His statistical output in the Octagon remains high, averaging 5.05 significant strikes landed per minute.
While Neal faced a challenging stretch between 2023 and 2025, including a rebooked bout against Carlos Prates at UFC 319, his recent victory in Houston suggests a resurgence. His defensive grappling and ability to keep fights standing continue to be his primary assets against the division’s elite wrestlers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Geoff Neal’s current UFC ranking?
As of February 2026, Geoff Neal is ranked #12 in the UFC Welterweight division.
Who did Geoff Neal fight last?
Geoff Neal fought Uroš Medić on 21 February 2026, at UFC Fight Night in Houston, Texas.
Where does Geoff Neal train?
Neal trains at Fortis MMA in Dallas, Texas, under the tutelage of head coach Sayif Saud.
What is the meaning of his nickname “Handz of Steel”?
The nickname refers to his exceptional punching power and his history of securing clinical knockout victories throughout his MMA career.
Has Geoff Neal ever fought for a UFC title?
While Neal has been a mainstay in the Welterweight Top 15 for several years and has faced top-tier contenders like Shavkat Rakhmonov and Belal Muhammad, he has not yet competed for a UFC undisputed or interim title.