The UFC is heading back to Abu Dhabi for a blockbuster event that will see 13 thrilling MMA bouts at the iconic Etihad Arena on Saturday, October 26, 2024. UFC 308: Topuria vs Holloway, is headlined by a must-see clash for the UFC Featherweight Championship, as Ilia Topuria faces former champion Max Holloway.
The co-main event will feature an explosive middleweight battle between Robert Whittaker and the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev. With a stacked card featuring top-tier talent, this event promises to deliver non-stop action. Here's a full breakdown of the event:
Main Event: UFC Featherweight Championship – Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway
The reigning featherweight champion, Ilia Topuria, looks to defend his title against the division's former king, Max Holloway. Known for his relentless pressure and elite boxing, Holloway is on a mission to reclaim his crown, while Topuria brings his undefeated streak and devastating knockout power to the cage. This main event is bound to be a five-round war, with Topuria aiming to solidify his reign and Holloway eager to return to the top of the division.
Co-Main Event: Middleweight Bout – Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev
Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker takes on the surging Khamzat Chimaev in what could be a title eliminator. Whittaker's well-rounded skill set will be tested by Chimaev, whose undefeated record and ability to finish fights have made him one of the UFC’s most feared competitors. Fans are eagerly anticipating this bout, with Chimaev looking to cement his status as a top contender and Whittaker hoping to make another run for the title.
Main Card Breakdown:
Featherweight Bout – Lerone Murphy vs. Dan IgeLerone Murphy, the British standout, faces Dan Ige in a bout that promises fireworks. Both fighters are known for their striking abilities and durable chins, making this an exciting matchup in the featherweight division.
Light Heavyweight Bout – Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar RakićMagomed Ankalaev, a top contender in the light heavyweight division, takes on the dangerous Aleksandar Rakić. Both fighters are known for their knockout power, and the winner of this bout could move one step closer to a title shot.
Middleweight Bout – Shara Magomedov vs. Armen PetrosyanShara Magomedov brings his undefeated record into the cage against Armen Petrosyan, a striker known for his explosive style. This middleweight clash will feature two powerful athletes looking to make a statement.
Preliminary Card Breakdown:
Welterweight Bout – Geoff Neal vs. Rafael dos AnjosGeoff Neal, known for his striking, faces UFC veteran Rafael dos Anjos, who is dropping down to welterweight. Dos Anjos brings experience and a well-rounded game, while Neal is looking for a big win to rise through the ranks.
Lightweight Bout – Myktybek Orolbai vs. Mateusz RębeckiIn a lightweight contest, Myktybek Orolbai faces Mateusz Rębecki. Both fighters are relatively new to the UFC, and this bout could be a showcase of rising talent in the division.
Middleweight Bout – Abus Magomedov vs. Brunno FerreiraAbus Magomedov looks to bounce back from a recent loss against Brunno Ferreira, a powerful middleweight striker. This bout is crucial for both men looking to establish themselves in a crowded division.
Light Heavyweight Bout – Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Chris BarnettIn a fan-favorite matchup, Kennedy Nzechukwu battles Chris Barnett, known for his flashy style and knockout power. Expect heavy leather to be thrown in this light heavyweight showdown.
Bantamweight Bout – Farid Basharat vs. Victor HugoBantamweight prospect Farid Basharat looks to extend his undefeated streak against Victor Hugo. Both fighters are hungry to climb the ranks, making this an intriguing contest.
Welterweight Bout – Rinat Fakhretdinov vs. Carlos LealRinat Fakhretdinov takes on Carlos Leal in a welterweight bout. Both fighters are relatively new to the UFC and will be looking to make a mark with a dominant performance.
Light Heavyweight Bout – Ibo Aslan vs. Raffael CerqueiraIn another light heavyweight contest, Ibo Aslan faces Raffael Cerqueira. Aslan is undefeated, and this bout will be his opportunity to showcase his skills against the dangerous Cerqueira.
Middleweight Bout – Bruno Silva vs. Ismail NaurdievBruno Silva takes on Ismail Naurdiev in the opening bout of the night. Both fighters are dynamic and dangerous, and this fight could set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Where to Watch:
UFC 308 will be broadcast live on Pay-Per-View in the U.S., with the preliminary card airing on ESPN. The event will take place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, a frequent destination for the UFC, known for hosting some of the most memorable fights in recent history.
Don’t miss UFC 308, as the stakes are high, and every fight has the potential for an explosive finish. Whether you're tuning in for the featherweight championship showdown or the exciting prelims, this event is bound to deliver from start to finish!