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Is 2022 Panini Select UFC Sports Worth Collecting? 2026 Investment Review

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Based on current market data, the 2022 Panini Select UFC set presents a compelling, albeit high-cost, collecting opportunity in 2026, with the top eight cards alone demanding a raw sum of $26,222. While the Khamzat Chimaev [Black] card is listed at an impressive $10,722 raw, the set’s overall value hinges on the continued rise of its key fighters.

Most sports card guides are wrong about which cards to grade — and the data proves it.

This 2022 Panini Select UFC Sports set review dives deep into the investment potential and collecting merits of one of the UFC’s more talked-about releases from recent years. We’re looking at this set with a 2026 investment horizon, evaluating its current market standing and projecting its future trajectory. With a raw sum of $26,222 for the top eight chase cards alone, the barrier to entry for a complete set is substantial, but the potential rewards could be equally significant for the right collector or investor. The Khamzat Chimaev [Black] card stands as the undisputed king of this set, commanding a staggering $10,722 in raw condition. However, the investment thesis for this set isn’t solely reliant on one card; it’s a constellation of rising stars and established legends. We’ll break down the grading ROI, complete-set costs, and the inherent risks and rewards to help you make an informed decision. Last updated: August 2026.

In This Article

• About 2022 Panini Select UFC

• The Top Chase Cards (Ranked)

• 1. Khamzat Chimaev [Black] (39)

• 2. Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] (23)

• 3. Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] (294)

• 4. Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] (284)

• 5. Ilia Topuria [Elephant] (23)

• 6. Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] (260)

• 7. Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (39)

• 8. Petr Yan [Gold] (201)

• Investment Analysis

• Grading ROI Across the Set

• Complete-Set Cost Estimation

• Short-Term vs. Long-Term View

• Risks and Considerations

• Worth Collecting? The Verdict

• Frequently Asked Questions

About 2022 Panini Select UFC

The 2022 Panini Select UFC set arrived at a time when the mixed martial arts landscape was buzzing with new talent and highly anticipated matchups. While the exact card count for the full 2022 Panini Select UFC release is not specified in the available data, Panini’s Select line is typically known for its multi-tiered base set and a wide array of parallels, making a comprehensive set a challenging but rewarding endeavor for dedicated collectors. This product aims to capture the excitement of the octagon by featuring prominent fighters, offering a range of collectibles that appeal to both casual fans and serious investors in the sports card market.

The appeal of the 2022 Panini Select UFC set lies in its contemporary roster of fighters, many of whom are either current champions, rising contenders, or legendary figures whose cards retain significant value. Panini’s Select brand, in general, is a popular staple in the sports card world, often distinguished by its visually striking designs and the inclusion of various inserts and chase cards that drive collector demand. For enthusiasts of UFC cards, this set represents a snapshot of the sport at a particular moment, offering cards that can appreciate as fighters continue to build their legacies.

The Top Chase Cards (Ranked)

The value proposition of the 2022 Panini Select UFC set is heavily concentrated in a select few cards, each featuring high-profile fighters or particularly rare parallels. The raw prices for these top-tier cards paint a clear picture of collector demand and perceived scarcity. It’s crucial to examine these cards individually to understand the market forces at play and their potential for future appreciation.

Data sources: What The Slab checks eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices, and PSA public-API pop reports. All figures as of August 2026.

1. Khamzat Chimaev [Black] (39)

The Khamzat Chimaev [Black] card is the undisputed centerpiece of the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, commanding an extraordinary raw price of $10,722. This valuation speaks volumes about Chimaev’s current standing in the UFC and his burgeoning appeal as a collectible commodity. The “Black” parallel designation, while not explicitly detailed in terms of rarity, clearly signifies a highly limited and sought-after variant within the set. For collectors focused on the highest-value assets, this card represents the primary target. Its price point suggests a significant investment is required to acquire even a raw version, and with no PSA 10 data available, a grading strategy remains purely speculative at this juncture. However, given its commanding price, any future graded population could see substantial demand.

Buy Khamzat Chimaev [Black] on eBay (active listings) Check Khamzat Chimaev [Black] sold comps on eBay

2. Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] (23)

Ilia Topuria’s [Lucky Envelopes] card is another high-value asset in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, listed at a considerable $3,562 in raw condition. Topuria has rapidly ascended the featherweight division ranks, establishing himself as a must-watch talent with a significant and growing fan base. This card’s pricing reflects that upward trajectory and his increasing popularity among collectors. The “Lucky Envelopes” parallel implies a special, potentially limited, release associated with this card, which naturally boosts its desirability. As with the top Chimaev card, there is no PSA 10 data available, meaning its ultimate graded value is yet to be determined. However, the high raw price suggests a strong demand for this specific Topuria card.

Buy Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] on eBay (active listings) Check Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] sold comps on eBay

3. Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] (294)

Shavkat Rakhmonov’s [Green] card, priced at $3,500 raw, positions him as a significant contender within the 2022 Panini Select UFC set’s high-end market. Rakhmonov is an undefeated welterweight prospect known for his dominant performances and exciting fighting style, which has garnered him a substantial following. The “Green” parallel suggests a specific color variation that is likely limited in production, contributing to its elevated price. Like many of the top cards in this set, there is no PSA 10 median price available, indicating that the graded market for this specific card is still nascent or unestablished. Nonetheless, its raw price signals strong collector interest for Rakhmonov’s elite cards.

Buy Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] on eBay (active listings) Check Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] sold comps on eBay

4. Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] (284)

The presence of Khabib Nurmagomedov on this list, even in a non-active capacity, speaks to his enduring legacy and the continued high demand for his collectibles. The [Tiger] parallel card is valued at $2,000 raw, demonstrating that cards of retired legends can still command significant prices, especially with unique parallels. Nurmagomedov retired undefeated and is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, ensuring that his cards will remain coveted by fans and collectors alike. The “Tiger” designation likely indicates a limited or visually distinct parallel. Without PSA 10 data, its graded potential is unknown, but the raw price alone underscores Khabib’s lasting impact on the hobby.

Buy Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] on eBay (active listings) Check Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] sold comps on eBay

5. Ilia Topuria [Elephant] (23)

Ilia Topuria appears again with his [Elephant] parallel card, valued at $1,814 raw. This is the second distinct parallel for Topuria on our top-eight list, highlighting his status as a breakout star and a key player in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set’s appeal. The “Elephant” parallel, like the “Lucky Envelopes” variant, suggests a specific, likely scarce, numbering or design that resonates strongly with collectors. While the raw price is lower than his [Lucky Envelopes] card, it still represents a substantial investment and indicates significant demand for Topuria’s premier cards from this release. The absence of PSA 10 data means its graded future is still being written.

Buy Ilia Topuria [Elephant] on eBay (active listings) Check Ilia Topuria [Elephant] sold comps on eBay

6. Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] (260)

Paddy Pimblett’s [Cracked Ice] card, fetching $1,595 raw and $834.10 in PSA 10, offers a tangible look at grading ROI within this set. Pimblett is one of the most popular and recognizable figures in the UFC, known for his outspoken personality and exciting performances, which translates directly into card demand. The “Cracked Ice” parallel is a visually distinctive and highly collectible variant that often commands a premium. With a PSA 10 multiplier of 0.5x the raw price, submitting this card for grading would have resulted in a -55.4% grading ROI based on these figures, suggesting that, at least currently, raw acquisitions are more financially prudent than aiming for a PSA 10 flip with this specific card.

Buy Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] on eBay (active listings) Check Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] sold comps on eBay

7. Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (39)

Another Khamzat Chimaev card, the [Tiger] variant, appears on the list at $1,529 raw and $420 in PSA 10. This highlights the depth of demand for Chimaev, with multiple parallels proving valuable. The “Tiger” parallel, similar to its counterparts, likely represents a limited print run or a unique design element. However, the grading data for this card is concerning for investors focused on grading flips. With a PSA 10 multiplier of just 0.3x the raw price, submitting this card for grading would have yielded a substantial -76.7% grading ROI. This suggests that, at present, the market strongly favors raw cards for this specific Chimaev parallel.

Buy Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] on eBay (active listings) Check Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] sold comps on eBay

8. Petr Yan [Gold] (201)

Petr Yan’s [Gold] card rounds out the top eight chase cards at $1,500 raw. Yan is a former UFC Bantamweight Champion with a significant following, known for his technical striking and exciting fights. The “Gold” parallel signifies a premium variant within the set, and its inclusion on this list confirms collector interest in Yan’s key cards from this release. As with many of the higher-end cards in this set, there is no PSA 10 median price provided, leaving the graded market for this specific card unquantified. However, its raw price indicates a solid demand for Yan’s top-tier collectibles.

Buy Petr Yan [Gold] on eBay (active listings) Check Petr Yan [Gold] sold comps on eBay

Investment Analysis

Grading ROI Across the Set

The provided data offers a mixed picture regarding grading ROI for the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, particularly when comparing raw prices to PSA 10 medians for the few cards where both are available. The Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] card shows a PSA 10 median of $834.10 against a raw price of $1,595, resulting in a -55.4% grading ROI. Similarly, the Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] card, with a raw price of $1,529 and a PSA 10 median of $420, yields a steep -76.7% ROI. These figures strongly suggest that, as of August 2026, the market is not rewarding PSA 10 grades sufficiently to justify the cost and effort of grading for these specific cards when aiming for a quick flip. The lack of PSA 10 data for the higher-value chase cards (Chimaev [Black], Topuria [Lucky Envelopes], Rakhmonov [Green], Nurmagomedov [Tiger], Topuria [Elephant], and Yan [Gold]) means their grading potential remains a significant unknown. Collectors focused on grading should exercise caution and closely monitor pop reports and sales trends before submitting these assets.

Complete-Set Cost Estimation

The sum of the top eight chase cards alone is $26,222. This figure serves as a critical floor for estimating the total cost to acquire a complete 2022 Panini Select UFC set. When considering the cost of commons, unlisted parallels, and insert sets that are not factored into this top-tier list, the overall investment can easily scale. For a set like this, which is part of the modern sports card era and features highly sought-after fighters, it’s reasonable to apply a multiplier of 1.0–1.2 times the sum of the top cards to account for the bulk of the remaining checklist. Therefore, a realistic estimate for acquiring the entire 2022 Panini Select UFC set in August 2026 would likely range from approximately $26,222 (floor) to upwards of $31,466. This substantial cost underscores that completing this set is a significant undertaking, primarily suited for dedicated collectors with considerable disposable income or investors with a long-term strategy.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term View

From a short-term perspective, the 2022 Panini Select UFC set appears to be a challenging market for grading-focused investors. The negative grading ROI on the few cards with available data suggests that quick flips from raw to graded PSA 10 are currently not profitable. The market seems to be valuing raw cards of top fighters, perhaps due to the speculative nature of their future performance and the uncertainty surrounding grading outcomes for the rarer parallels.

In the long term, however, the outlook could be more promising. The set features a compelling roster of active stars like Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria, whose careers are still developing. As these fighters continue to achieve success, win championships, and build their legacies, the demand for their key cards, including those from the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, is likely to increase. Furthermore, the inclusion of a legend like Khabib Nurmagomedov ensures enduring appeal. For collectors and investors with patience, this set could represent an opportunity for significant appreciation as the fighters’ careers progress and the scarcity of these particular parallels becomes more pronounced.

Risks and Considerations

Several risks are associated with investing in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set. Firstly, the risk of reprints, while typically lower for Panini Select products compared to some other brands, is always a factor in the sports card market. Any future re-releases of similar cards could dilute the scarcity of the 2022 edition. Secondly, fighter performance is inherently volatile. A fighter suffering a significant injury, underperforming, or facing controversies could negatively impact the value of their cards. This is particularly relevant for active fighters whose careers are ongoing.

Thirdly, the grading landscape itself presents risks. Changes in grading standards, the saturation of certain grade tiers (like PSA 10), or the rise of competing grading companies could affect the perceived value of graded cards. For this set specifically, the lack of readily available PSA 10 data for many of the top chase cards introduces a significant unknown. Collectors are essentially betting on the future graded market for these cards. Finally, the overall market for sports cards can fluctuate. Economic downturns or shifts in collector sentiment could lead to a decrease in demand and prices across the board.

Worth Collecting? The Verdict

WATCH. The 2022 Panini Select UFC set is a high-potential but high-cost endeavor. While the top chase cards, such as Khamzat Chimaev [Black] at $10,722 raw, command significant prices, the negative grading ROI for available cards suggests caution for immediate grading flips. The set’s future value is tied to the continued success of its featured fighters.

For the sports cards completionist, this set is a considerable undertaking due to the estimated complete-set cost likely exceeding $30,000. It requires significant financial commitment and dedication to tracking down all parallels and inserts. WATCH this set, but only if you have substantial resources and a long-term collecting vision.

For the ROI-focused investor, the data on grading ROI is a red flag for short-term gains. The negative returns on cards like Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] (-55.4%) and Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (-76.7%) suggest avoiding grading for immediate profit. However, the high raw prices of key fighters indicate potential long-term appreciation. WATCH for opportunities to acquire high-grade raw cards of promising fighters, but be patient and prepared for a long hold.

For the new collector with $13,110 to spend (half the estimated floor), it is advisable to focus on acquiring a few of the top chase cards rather than attempting a complete set. The sum of the top eight cards is $26,222, so $13,110 would allow for acquiring a significant portion of the most valuable assets, such as the Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] ($3,562 raw) and Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] ($3,500 raw) cards, or a combination of lower-tier chase cards and a selection of high-demand prospects. SKIP the complete set, but BUY selectively into the top individual cards that align with your investment strategy and fighter preferences.

Pro Tip: Given the current data showing negative grading ROI for the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, focus your investment strategy on acquiring high-grade raw cards of the most promising fighters. The long-term appreciation potential for fighters like Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria remains high, and acquiring their key cards in raw condition now, while avoiding potentially unprofitable grading fees, could yield better returns over time as their careers flourish and the demand for their cards solidifies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2022 Panini Select UFC worth collecting in 2026?

Yes, the 2022 Panini Select UFC set is worth collecting in 2026 if you’re focused on high-value chase cards of prominent fighters. The top eight cards alone represent a significant investment, with the Khamzat Chimaev [Black] card priced at $10,722 raw.

What is the estimated cost to complete the 2022 Panini Select UFC set?

Based on the sum of the top eight cards ($26,222) and applying a multiplier of 1.0–1.2 for commons and other unlisted cards, the estimated cost to complete the set in 2026 is between $26,222 and approximately $31,466.

What is the grading ROI for cards in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set?

The available data indicates a negative grading ROI for cards where both raw and PSA 10 prices are listed. For instance, the Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] shows a -55.4% ROI, and Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] shows a -76.7% ROI, suggesting that grading for profit is currently not advisable.

Which fighters are the key chase cards in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set?

The top chase cards feature fighters like Khamzat Chimaev, Ilia Topuria, Shavkat Rakhmonov, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Paddy Pimblett, and Petr Yan, with specific rare parallels driving their high market values.

Should I buy raw or graded cards from this set?

Given the negative grading ROI data for certain cards, buying raw versions of key fighters like Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria is currently more advisable for investment purposes. The future graded market is still developing for many of the top cards.

How does 2022 Panini Select UFC compare to other UFC card sets?

Compared to other UFC sets, 2022 Panini Select stands out for its concentration of high-value cards featuring both active stars and established legends. Its pricing structure, particularly for the top chase cards, suggests it’s positioned as a premium release within the UFC card market.

For more insights into the world of sports card collecting and investment, explore our Sports Cards hub. If you’re interested in the intersection of combat sports and collectibles, you might also find our analysis of other related sets insightful, such as discussions on 2025 Topps WWE x BAPE Wrestling Checklist or 2025 Panini Flawless Baseball Checklist.