Get ready for fireworks! UFC CEO Dana White has just dropped a bombshell, revealing that UFC 308 will return to Abu Dhabi on October 26 with a card that's sure to blow fans away. Headlining the event, featherweight champion Ilia Topuria will make his first title defense vs the legendary Max Holloway, the former featherweight king and current BMF champion at UFC 308.
Both fighters are riding high on sensational knockouts this year. Topuria snatched the title with a stunning second-round sleeper against Alexander Volkanovski, while Holloway's last-second right hand sent Justin Gaethje to the canvas at UFC 300. Their online banter and cat-and-mouse antics only add fuel to this highly anticipated showdown.
Topuria, undefeated and hungry, aims to cement his reign atop the featherweight division. But standing in his way is Holloway, a fighter many regard as one of the best in featherweight history, looking to reclaim the belt he lost in 2019. Holloway’s journey back to the top has been marked by unforgettable performances, and this fight is set to be another classic.
But that's not all! White also confirmed the rebooking of a colossal middleweight clash between former champion Robert Whittaker and the unbeaten Khamzat Chimaev. Originally set for the UFC’s first event in Saudi Arabia, Chimaev was forced to withdraw due to illness. Whittaker then dispatched Ikram Aliskerov in record time, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle that could determine the next title challenger.
The excitement continues with a heavyweight rematch between French phenom Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov. Gane secured a unanimous decision in their first encounter in 2019, but Volkov has been on a tear, winning five of his last six fights. A victory here could catapult either fighter into title contention.
Additionally, light heavyweights Magomed Ankalaev and Aleksandar Rakić will clash in a bout that could define the next challenger for Alex Pereira's title. Rakić is seeking redemption after a long injury layoff, while Ankalaev is looking to build on his momentum following a decisive win over Johnny Walker earlier this year.
Stay tuned to Black Belt Magazine for all the latest updates on this explosive card and other thrilling UFC events. You won't want to miss it!