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Top 10 Most Valuable 2022 Panini Select UFC Sports Cards (2026)
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The most valuable 2022 Panini Select UFC cards are led by the high-demand Khamzat Chimaev [Black] raw card, valued at $10,722, and include other top contenders like Ilia Topuria and Shavkat Rakhmonov, indicating strong collector interest in premier talent from this era. Investors and collectors should closely monitor these fighter cards to understand the current market trends and potential investment opportunities.
Is the 2022 Panini Select UFC set still worth chasing in 2026? The verified sold comps say something different than the Twitter hot takes. While some might dismiss older sets as the market floods with new releases, the data for 2022 Panini Select UFC reveals a persistent and potentially lucrative niche for collectors. The top 10 cards in this set, based on verified eBay sold data and PriceCharting comps, range from $1,349 to a staggering $10,722 raw. This isn’t just about fleeting hype; it’s about sustained interest in significant fighters and unique parallels. The market data indicates that strategic purchases within this set, particularly focusing on the elite talent and rare variants, can still yield significant returns. For collectors looking to capitalize on established MMA stars from a recent, popular release, diving into 2022 Panini Select UFC remains a viable strategy, provided you understand the specific cards that command the highest prices and possess the best long-term potential. Last updated: August 2026.
In This Article
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The Top 10 2022 Panini Select UFC Market Data
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Card Spotlight: Khamzat Chimaev [Black]
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The Ilia Topuria Phenomenon
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Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Ascent
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Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Legacy Cards
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Paddy Pimblett and Ian Garry: The Rising Stars
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The Grading ROI Play: Maximizing Your Investment
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Buying Strategy for 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Top 10 2022 Panini Select UFC Market Data
| # | Card | Set | PSA 10 | PSA 9 | Raw | Grading ROI | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Khamzat Chimaev [Black] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $10,722 | — | — |
| 2 | Ilia Topuria [Lucky Env.] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $3,562 | — | — |
| 3 | Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $3,500 | — | — |
| 4 | Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $2,000 | — | — |
| 5 | Ilia Topuria [Elephant] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $1,814 | — | — |
| 6 | Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | $834.10 | — | $1,595 | -55.4% | — |
| 7 | Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | $420.00 | — | $1,529 | -76.7% | — |
| 8 | Petr Yan [Gold] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | — | — | $1,500 | — | — |
| 9 | Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | $1,000 | — | $1,500 | -43.1% | — |
| 10 | Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] | 2022 Panini Select UFC | $853.92 | — | $1,349 | -46.1% | — |
Data sources: What The Slab checks eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices. All figures as of August 2026.
1. Khamzat Chimaev [Black] (39)
Topping the list of the most valuable 2022 Panini Select UFC cards is the Khamzat Chimaev [Black] variant. This card commands an exceptional raw price of $10,722, underscoring Chimaev’s status as one of the most exciting and highly sought-after fighters in mixed martial arts. The “Black” parallel is known for its scarcity and striking visual appeal, making it a prime target for high-end collectors. Without PSA 10 data available, the raw price represents the current peak market valuation, driven by demand for a player with immense potential and a dedicated fanbase. For collectors looking to acquire the absolute pinnacle of this set, this card is the undisputed leader. Its value proposition is tied directly to Chimaev’s performance and market perception. Given its price point, acquiring this card is a significant investment, best suited for collectors with substantial capital looking for a marquee asset from the 2022 Panini Select UFC release.
Buy Khamzat Chimaev [Black] (39) on eBay (active listings) Buy Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (39) on eBay (active listings)
2. Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] (23)
Ilia Topuria’s [Lucky Envelopes] card from the 2022 Panini Select UFC set secures the second spot with an impressive raw price of $3,562. Topuria has rapidly ascended the UFC ranks, becoming a legitimate contender and a fan favorite, which directly translates to card values. The “Lucky Envelopes” parallel is a rare and distinctive insert, contributing to its elevated market price. Similar to the top-ranked Chimaev card, this entry currently lacks PSA 10 data, meaning its valuation is derived from the raw card market, showcasing robust demand. For collectors specializing in emerging UFC talent or rare parallels, this Topuria card represents a significant acquisition. Its value is intrinsically linked to Topuria’s continued success and growing fan base within the sport. This card exemplifies the potential for high returns when investing in cards of fighters on the cusp of superstardom.
Buy Ilia Topuria [Lucky Envelopes] (23) on eBay (active listings) Buy Ilia Topuria [Elephant] (23) on eBay (active listings)
3. Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] (294)
Shavkat Rakhmonov’s [Green] parallel card stands as the third most valuable offering in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, boasting a raw price of $3,500. Rakhmonov has established himself as a dominant force in the welterweight division, consistently delivering impressive performances that have captivated fans and collectors alike. The “Green” parallel, while perhaps not as inherently rare as some other ultra-limited variants, carries significant weight due to the fighter’s rising stock and the overall demand for his premium cards. Like many of the top-tier entries in this list, this card’s valuation is primarily derived from raw sales, indicating strong buyer interest in unsecured copies. Acquiring this Shavkat Rakhmonov card is a strategic move for collectors who believe in his long-term potential to become a dominant champion. His undefeated record and finishing ability make him a magnet for investment-grade collectors.
Buy Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] (294) on eBay (active listings)
4. Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] (284)
The presence of Khabib Nurmagomedov on this list, even with a retired status, highlights his enduring legacy and the sustained demand for his collectibles. The Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] card, valued at $2,000 raw, represents a significant piece for any collector focused on UFC history and top-tier talent. While Khabib is no longer actively competing, his undefeated record and iconic status ensure that his cards remain highly sought after. The “Tiger” parallel is a visually distinct variant that adds to its appeal. The absence of PSA 10 data for this particular card suggests that the market is largely driven by the raw card availability and demand for a legend. For collectors who value historical significance and the allure of a true GOAT, this Khabib card is an exceptional addition, offering a different type of investment strategy compared to active fighters. It appeals to a broader audience of combat sports memorabilia enthusiasts.
Buy Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] (284) on eBay (active listings)
5. Ilia Topuria [Elephant] (23)
![Ilia Topuria [Elephant] #23](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/3RoAAeSwJFFqjglc/s-l800.jpg)
Ilia Topuria reappears on the list with his [Elephant] parallel card, valued at $1,814 raw. This dual presence of Topuria underscores his rapid ascent and the collector appeal of his 2022 Panini Select UFC cards. The [Elephant] parallel, like the [Lucky Envelopes] version, signifies a rare variant within the set. Its strong raw price point reinforces Topuria’s position as a fighter with significant market momentum. The lack of PSA 10 data for this card emphasizes that even unsecured copies are commanding substantial prices, driven by the anticipation of his future performances and potential championship reign. For collectors building a portfolio of top-tier MMA talent, securing both Topuria parallels represents an excellent strategy. This card speaks to the dynamic nature of the UFC market, where rising stars can quickly translate into significant card values.
Buy Ilia Topuria [Elephant] (23) on eBay (active listings)
6. Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] (260)
Paddy Pimblett, a fighter known for his charismatic personality and exciting fight style, makes his first appearance on the list with his [Cracked Ice] parallel card. This card is valued at $1,595 raw, with a PSA 10 median price of $834.10. This data point is crucial as it’s one of the few on this list with graded pricing, offering a tangible view of the grading multiplier. The “Cracked Ice” parallel is a highly coveted, visually striking variant that often commands a premium. However, the Grading ROI of -55.4% suggests that, based on this specific data, grading this card may not have been profitable, with a projected loss of $894.33 per card if graded and sold at the PSA 10 median. This highlights the importance of understanding grading costs and potential market values before submitting. For collectors, the raw card value still places it among the set’s elite, but the grading economics require careful consideration.
Buy Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] (260) on eBay (active listings) Buy Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] (260) on eBay (active listings)
7. Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (39)
Khamzat Chimaev’s presence continues with his [Tiger] parallel card, valued at $1,529 raw. This card also has a PSA 10 median price of $420.00, providing further insight into the graded market for his parallels. The Grading ROI for this card is a significant -76.7%, indicating a substantial potential loss of $1,188.60 if graded and sold at the PSA 10 median. This steep negative ROI suggests that the market has shifted, or the raw price is significantly outpacing the potential return from grading at the current PSA 10 median. While the raw card itself is valuable, illustrating Chimaev’s immense popularity, collectors considering grading this particular variant should exercise extreme caution. It underscores a key trend: not all valuable raw cards translate into profitable graded investments, especially when the raw price is high and the PSA 10 median is comparatively low.
Buy Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] (39) on eBay (active listings)
8. Petr Yan [Gold] (201)
![Petr Yan [Gold] #201](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/Eg0AAOSwnoBjBtEW/s-l800.jpg)
Petr Yan, a former bantamweight champion known for his technical striking, is represented by his [Gold] parallel card, valued at $1,500 raw. The “Gold” parallel is typically a highly sought-after variant due to its limited nature and visually appealing aesthetic. The absence of PSA 10 data for this card means its value is currently derived solely from the raw market, indicating solid demand for Yan’s premium cards. Despite his recent career trajectory, Petr Yan remains a respected figure in the sport, and his higher-end collectibles continue to attract attention. This card represents a strong buy for collectors who appreciate top-tier talent and unique parallels, even without definitive graded price points. Its position within the top 10 demonstrates that even established fighters can maintain significant market value on their key cards.
Buy Petr Yan [Gold] (201) on eBay (active listings)
9. Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] (260)
![Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] #260](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/-MUAAeSwTFBqFMYu/s-l800.jpg)
Paddy Pimblett’s second appearance on the list comes with his [Tiger] parallel card, which also has a raw price of $1,500. Significantly, this card shows a PSA 10 median of $1,000, offering a clearer picture of its graded performance. The Grading ROI here is -43.1%, with a potential profit of $-654.95 if graded and sold at the PSA 10 median. While still negative, this ROI is considerably better than the [Cracked Ice] variant of the same fighter. The [Tiger] parallel appears to hold its value more effectively in the graded market compared to its counterpart, though grading still presents a financial risk based on these figures. For collectors, the $1,500 raw value is substantial, but the $1,000 PSA 10 median suggests a strong demand for graded examples, albeit with a notable discount from the raw price.
Buy Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] (260) on eBay (active listings)
10. Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] (250)
Closing out the top 10 is Ian Garry, an Irish prospect with a strong following, whose [Cracked Ice] parallel card is valued at $1,349 raw. This card also features a PSA 10 median price of $853.92, providing comparative data against other graded cards. The Grading ROI for Ian Garry’s [Cracked Ice] card is -46.1%, with an estimated profit loss of $-631.09 if graded and sold at the PSA 10 median. This indicates a similar pattern to other graded cards in this set: the raw value is significantly higher than the potential return after grading and selling at the PSA 10 median. For collectors, the raw card value is compelling, reflecting Garry’s potential and the desirability of the “Cracked Ice” parallel. However, the grading economics suggest caution is warranted for investment purposes, making the raw card a more straightforward acquisition for many.
Buy Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] (250) on eBay (active listings)
The Grading ROI Play: Maximizing Your Investment
When examining the 2022 Panini Select UFC set through the lens of investment, the Grading Return on Investment (ROI) reveals crucial insights into the potential profitability of grading cards. While raw card prices reflect immediate market demand, the ROI illustrates how much value is added or lost by submitting a card for professional grading.
For collectors considering the grading route with the 2022 Panini Select UFC cards, the data presents a mixed, and often cautionary, picture. The Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] card exhibits the steepest negative ROI at -76.7%, suggesting that at its raw price of $1,529, aiming for a PSA 10 with a median value of $420.00 would result in a substantial loss of $1,188.60. This highlights a scenario where the raw market price significantly outstrips the perceived value of a graded gem.
Similarly, the Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] card shows a Grading ROI of -55.4%, with an estimated loss of $894.33 based on its raw price of $1,595 and a PSA 10 median of $834.10. This indicates that the premium for a graded version, relative to the raw card cost plus grading fees, is not currently justifying the investment.
The Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] card presents a Grading ROI of -46.1%, with a potential loss of $631.09 based on a raw price of $1,349 and a PSA 10 median of $853.92. This figure, while still negative, is less severe than the others discussed, but still points to a scenario where grading may not be the most profitable path.
To break even on the Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] card, assuming a raw price of $1,529 and a grading fee of, for instance, $20, you would need to sell a PSA 10 for approximately $1,529 + $20 = $1,549. The current PSA 10 median is only $420.00, meaning it would need to sell for nearly four times its current graded value to recoup costs. For the Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] card ($1,595 raw + $20 grading fee), a PSA 10 sale would need to exceed $1,615 to break even, far above the $834.10 median. For Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] ($1,349 raw + $20 grading fee), a PSA 10 sale would need to reach $1,369, also significantly higher than its $853.92 median.
These figures strongly suggest that for many of the higher-priced raw cards in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, the current graded market value does not compensate for the cost and risk of grading. The data points towards acquiring these cards in raw form as a more economically viable strategy in 2026, unless there is a significant future increase in the PSA 10 market for these specific cards or fighters. Collectors interested in graded cards may find better opportunities in lower-tier parallels or cards where the PSA 10 median significantly outpaces the raw price.
Buying Strategy for 2026
| Card | Play | Why | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khamzat Chimaev [Black] | Buy | Highest raw value ($10,722), represents the pinnacle of the set. Limited PSA data suggests high demand for the raw card, driven by Chimaev’s elite status. A true collector’s centerpiece. | High |
| Ilia Topuria [Lucky Env.] | Buy | Strong raw value ($3,562) and rising fighter status. Rarity of the parallel contributes to its high demand. Investing in Topuria now could yield significant returns if he continues his championship trajectory. | Moderate |
| Shavkat Rakhmonov [Green] | Buy | Solid raw value ($3,500) from a dominant, undefeated fighter. His consistent performance makes his cards a strong long-term hold. The “Green” parallel is recognizable and desirable within the set. | Moderate |
| Khabib Nurmagomedov [Tiger] | Hold/Buy | Legacy player ($2,000 raw). While retired, Khabib’s GOAT status guarantees sustained interest. This card is for collectors prioritizing historical significance and established demand over active fighter potential. | Low |
| Ilia Topuria [Elephant] | Buy | Second strong entry for Topuria ($1,814 raw), reinforcing his market impact. Acquiring both Topuria parallels offers a comprehensive collection of his top cards from this set. Market momentum is high. | Moderate |
| Paddy Pimblett [Tiger] | Hold | Decent raw value ($1,500) with a $1,000 PSA 10 median. While grading ROI is negative (-43.1%), the graded market shows demand. Holds its value reasonably well in graded form, making it a stable option for collectors. | Moderate |
| Ian Garry [Cracked Ice] | Hold | Entry-level top 10 card ($1,349 raw) with a positive outlook on his career. The “Cracked Ice” parallel is attractive. While grading ROI is negative, holding raw for potential career surges is a viable strategy. | Moderate |
| Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] | Hold | Significant raw value ($1,529) but a very poor Grading ROI (-76.7%). Best kept raw to avoid grading losses unless market conditions drastically change. Represents strong raw demand but poor graded market realization. | High |
| Petr Yan [Gold] | Hold | Solid raw value ($1,500) from a former champion. The “Gold” parallel is visually appealing and scarce. Lacks PSA 10 data, making it a raw-focused acquisition. Hold for collectors valuing established talent and rare parallels. | Moderate |
| Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] | Hold | High raw value ($1,595) but a poor Grading ROI (-55.4%). Best kept raw. While popular, the data suggests significant depreciation when graded. Focus on raw acquisition to maximize value. | High |
Pro Tip: When evaluating the 2022 Panini Select UFC set in 2026, pay close attention to the discrepancies between raw card prices and PSA 10 medians. The data clearly shows that for many of the higher-priced cards, grading is currently resulting in a financial loss. This indicates that the market for raw cards is strong, driven by collector demand for specific fighters, while the added premium for a graded card doesn’t always justify the costs. For strategic acquisitions, prioritizing raw versions of cards like Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] or Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] is likely the more financially sound approach, reserving graded purchases for cards where the PSA 10 value significantly exceeds the raw price plus grading expenses, or for specific legacy players like Khabib.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable 2022 Panini Select UFC card?
The most valuable 2022 Panini Select UFC card is the Khamzat Chimaev [Black] parallel, which commanded a raw price of $10,722. This card leads the set due to Chimaev’s immense popularity and the scarcity of the Black parallel.
How do raw card prices compare to PSA 10 prices in this set?
For many of the top cards in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set, raw card prices are significantly higher than their PSA 10 median values. For example, the Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] card is $1,529 raw but only $420.00 in PSA 10, indicating a substantial difference and often a negative grading ROI.
Is grading profitable for 2022 Panini Select UFC cards?
Based on the available data for the top cards, grading does not appear to be consistently profitable in 2026. Cards like Khamzat Chimaev [Tiger] have a Grading ROI of -76.7%, and Paddy Pimblett [Cracked Ice] shows -55.4%. This suggests that buying these cards raw is often more cost-effective than grading them.
Which fighters’ cards are performing best in the 2022 Panini Select UFC set?
Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria are currently the top-performing fighters, with multiple cards appearing in the top 10. Shavkat Rakhmonov, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Paddy Pimblett, Petr Yan, and Ian Garry also have cards that are highly valued within the set, reflecting their popularity and market demand.
Should I buy graded or raw cards from the 2022 Panini Select UFC set in 2026?
The data suggests that buying raw is often the more prudent financial decision for many of the higher-value cards in this set, given the current grading ROI figures. However, for collectors who prioritize condition and long-term preservation, or for specific legacy cards, a graded version might still be desirable, provided the price difference is carefully considered.
Are there any cards from this set that show positive grading potential?
While the data provided for the top 10 cards shows negative grading ROI, it’s possible that lower-tier cards or other parallels within the 2022 Panini Select UFC set might offer better grading potential. However, for the most valuable cards highlighted, the risk of financial loss through grading appears significant based on current market prices.
The market for 2022 Panini Select UFC cards in 2026 remains dynamic, with top talent like Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria commanding premium prices. While the allure of graded cards is undeniable, the verified data suggests a strategic approach is paramount, often favoring raw acquisitions for the highest-value cards. For those looking to build a strong collection of modern MMA talent, understanding these price dynamics, as explored in this Top 10 Most Valuable 2017 Panini Donruss NASCAR Signature Series Sports Cards (2026) guide, is crucial. Continue exploring the world of Sports Cards to make informed investment decisions.