The UFC is set to make history once again, bringing its electrifying brand of MMA action to Saudi Arabia with UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the prestigious ANB Arena in Riyadh. Fans are in for a night of adrenaline-pumping bouts featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. Here is a detailed breakdown of the event's thrilling fight card:
Main Event: Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov
Middleweight Bout
In the headliner, former Middleweight Champion Israel "The Last Stylebender" Adesanya takes on France’s rising star Nassourdine Imavov. Adesanya is renowned for his precision striking and show-stopping knockouts, while Imavov, riding high on a three-fight win streak, looks to solidify his place among the division’s elite. This fight promises a clash of styles—Adesanya's kickboxing mastery against Imavov’s well-rounded skillset.
Co-Main Event: Shara Magomedov vs. Michael Page
Welterweight Bout
In a co-main event destined for highlight reels, the undefeated Dagestani phenom Shara "Bullet" Magomedov faces Michael "Venom" Page, the British superstar known for his flashy striking. With Magomedov’s relentless aggression meeting Page’s unorthodox and pinpoint striking, fans should expect fireworks from the opening bell.
Main Card
Sergei Pavlovich vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik - Heavyweight Bout
Two of the heaviest hitters in the UFC collide as Sergei Pavlovich squares off against Jairzinho “Bigi Boy” Rozenstruik. With Pavlovich’s devastating first-round knockouts and Rozenstruik’s kickboxing pedigree, this fight is almost guaranteed to end in a spectacular finish.
Said Nurmagomedov vs. Vinicius Oliveira - Bantamweight Bout
Said Nurmagomedov, a striking specialist with a flair for spinning attacks, takes on Brazil’s Vinicius Oliveira, a submission ace hungry to climb the division’s ranks. Will Nurmagomedov’s dynamic stand-up prevail, or will Oliveira drag him into deep waters on the mat?
Fares Ziam vs. Mike Davis- Lightweight Bout
France’s Fares Ziam meets the ever-dangerous Mike Davis in a clash of lightweight strikers. Ziam’s tactical approach will be put to the test against Davis’ relentless pressure and knockout power.
Muhammad Naimov vs. Kaan Ofli - Featherweight Bout
In this high-stakes featherweight showdown, Muhammad Naimov, known for his gritty fighting style, faces Kaan Ofli, a Turkish newcomer making his UFC debut. Both fighters are eager to make a statement on the big stage.
Preliminary Card
Shamil Gaziev vs. Thomas Petersen - Heavyweight Bout
Shamil Gaziev, an explosive heavyweight prospect, faces off against Thomas Petersen, who brings a wrestling-heavy style. This battle could end quickly with a knockout or grind on the mat over three rounds.
Terrance McKinney vs. Damir Hadžović - Lightweight Bout
Terrance McKinney, a fast-finisher with incredible submissions and striking, takes on Damir Hadžović in a clash of experienced lightweights. This fight promises to be a barnburner.
Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva - Women’s Flyweight Bout
Canada’s Jasmine Jasudavicius looks to continue her rise in the flyweight division as she takes on Mayra Bueno Silva, a Brazilian finisher with a knack for submissions. This is a pivotal fight for both athletes in a stacked division.
Bogdan Grad vs. Lucas Alexander - Featherweight Bout
Bogdan Grad brings his striking prowess to the Octagon against Lucas Alexander, a dynamic Brazilian fighter. Both competitors are looking to break into the featherweight rankings with an impressive performance.
Hamdy Abdelwahab vs. Jamal Pogues - Heavyweight Bout
Egyptian powerhouse Hamdy Abdelwahab faces off against Jamal Pogues in a heavyweight clash. Expect a back-and-forth brawl between these two determined competitors.
What to Expect
UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov marks a monumental moment for the UFC’s expansion in the Middle East. With a stacked card featuring elite fighters and rising stars, this event is set to captivate MMA fans worldwide. From high-stakes title eliminators to thrilling heavyweight slugfests, the night promises non-stop action.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss this historic night of fights in Riyadh on February 1, 2025. The UFC continues to deliver unforgettable events, and this one will be no exception.