This Saturday, August 3, 2024, the UFC returns to the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi for an electrifying night of mixed martial arts action with UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov, that promises to be an unforgettable event with 13 bouts featuring some of the most talented fighters in the sport. Here’s a detailed preview of each fight on the card.
Main Event: Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov (Bantamweight - 135 lbs)
The main event features bantamweight sensation Cory Sandhagen taking on the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov. Sandhagen, known for his striking prowess and unorthodox techniques, faces a stern test in Nurmagomedov, whose grappling and all-around skills make him a formidable opponent. This clash of styles promises fireworks as both fighters vie for bantamweight supremacy.
Co-Main Event: Shara Magomedov vs. Michał Oleksiejczuk (Middleweight - 185 lbs)
In the co-main event, rising star Shara Magomedov faces Polish powerhouse Michał Oleksiejczuk. Magomedov's dynamic striking and relentless pressure will be matched against Oleksiejczuk's durability and knockout power. This middleweight bout is expected to be a high-paced battle with potential title implications.
Main Card Highlights
Marlon Vera vs. Deiveson Figueiredo (Bantamweight - 135 lbs): Marlon Vera takes on former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo in a pivotal bantamweight clash. Vera's aggression and Figueiredo's explosive power guarantee an exciting fight.
Tony Ferguson vs. Michael Chiesa (Welterweight - 170 lbs): Veteran Tony Ferguson squares off against submission specialist Michael Chiesa. Ferguson's unorthodox style and Chiesa's grappling acumen make this a must-watch encounter.
Mackenzie Dern vs. Lupita Godinez (Strawweight - 115 lbs): BJJ ace Mackenzie Dern meets the tough and versatile Lupita Godinez. Dern's submission skills versus Godinez's striking and wrestling create an intriguing matchup.
Joel Alvarez vs. Elves Brener (Lightweight - 155 lbs): Joel Alvarez looks to continue his ascent in the lightweight division against the dangerous Elves Brener. Expect fireworks from these two dynamic fighters.
Preliminary Card Highlights
Alonzo Menifield vs. Azamat Murzakanov (Light Heavyweight - 205 lbs): Hard-hitting Alonzo Menifield takes on the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov in a clash of heavy-handed light heavyweights.
Mohammad Yahya vs. Kauê Fernandes (Lightweight - 155 lbs): Local hero Mohammad Yahya battles rising star Kauê Fernandes in a fight that promises to keep the crowd on their feet.
Shamil Gaziev vs. Don'Tale Mayes (Heavyweight - 265 lbs): Heavyweights Shamil Gaziev and Don'Tale Mayes look to make a statement with their knockout power in this high-stakes bout.
Guram Kutateladze vs. Jordan Vucenic (Lightweight - 155 lbs): Guram Kutateladze faces Jordan Vucenic in a lightweight bout that could steal the show with its high level of skill and intensity.
Victoria Dudakova vs. Sam Hughes (Strawweight - 115 lbs): Strawweights Victoria Dudakova and Sam Hughes aim to climb the ranks with a victory in this competitive matchup.
Jai Herbert vs. Rolando Bedoya (Lightweight - 155 lbs): Jai Herbert takes on Rolando Bedoya in a bout that promises technical striking and fast-paced action.
Sedriques Dumas vs. Denis Tiuliulin (Middleweight - 185 lbs): Opening the card, Sedriques Dumas and Denis Tiuliulin will set the tone with their middleweight clash.
UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov is shaping up to be an explosive event filled with thrilling matchups and potential fight-of-the-night contenders. Don’t miss the action live from the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Tune in this Saturday for a night of unforgettable fights that you won't want to miss!
The main card is set to start at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. UK, with the walkouts for the Sandhagen vs Nurmagomedov fight planned for 6 p.m. ET / 11 p.m. UK. Please note that these times are subject to change depending on the duration of the preliminary fights.