Borshchev made his UFC debut in January 2022, earning his contract through a spectacular knockout on Dana White’s Contender Series against Chris Duncan. In his first UFC fight, he delivered another impressive performance, winning by first-round TKO against Dakota Bush. However, this initial success was followed by setbacks, as Borshchev experienced two consecutive losses, cementing his status as a mid-tier fighter with inconsistent results.

Currently, Borshchev holds a UFC record of 3 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw—a relatively average statistic that might not catch the attention of casual fans. But numbers alone don’t capture the essence of Borshchev’s appeal. His fights are packed with action, often outshining those of top-ranked fighters like Mateusz Gamrot and Beneil Dariush, whose styles can be less engaging to watch.

Borshchev, a world champion in kickboxing in 2011, brings a unique style to the octagon. Unlike some of his peers, who may prefer a more tactical approach, Borshchev thrives in aggressive exchanges, reminiscent of fighters like Max Holloway. His relentless pressure and willingness to engage in close-quarters combat make his fights a thrilling spectacle for fans.

Even though Borshchev isn’t featured on the main cards of major UFC events, his performances certainly warrant a higher profile. One of his most notable recent bouts was against Nazim Sadykhov. In November of last year, Borshchev found himself under heavy pressure from the Azerbaijani fighter in the first half of their fight. However, Borshchev staged a remarkable comeback in the later rounds, nearly securing a win before the fight ended in a draw—a result that earned the bout “Fight of the Night” honors.

In his latest fight at UFC Vegas 96 against debutant James Lontop, Borshchev secured a split decision victory in another hard-fought battle, characterized by sudden exchanges, knockdowns, and tension that lasted until the final bell. His fights are consistently some of the most exciting on any card he’s part of, showcasing the essence of UFC’s appeal.

Despite his inconsistent performances, Borshchev has the potential to climb the UFC ranks. His fan-friendly style and knockout power are undeniable assets. Over his seven UFC fights, he has earned three performance bonuses—two for knockout wins and one for “Fight of the Night.”

Borshchev is willing to take on any opponent, regardless of their style, and is even prepared to fight on short notice, embodying the spirit of old-school fighters like Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz. This attitude, combined with his exciting fight style, makes him a valuable asset to the UFC.

Recently, there were doubts about Borshchev’s future with the UFC after a series of losses. However, his recent victory, filled with dramatic exchanges, has secured his place in the promotion for the foreseeable future. It’s likely that the UFC will offer him a more lucrative contract soon, ensuring his continued presence in the octagon.

While Borshchev may not yet be a top-15 fighter, his thrilling performances make him a fan favorite and a fighter that the UFC can’t afford to lose. His style is the epitome of what makes UFC fights so captivating, and for that, Viacheslav Borshchev is an essential fighter for the promotion’s roster.