Israel Adesanya Headlines UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia
On February 1, 2025, Israel Adesanya returns to the octagon to face rising contender Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This marks Adesanya’s first non-title bout in nearly six years. The event will take place at The Venue, part of UFC’s continued global expansion.
Adesanya Seeks Redemption After Tough Losses
Israel Adesanya (24-4 MMA, 13-4 UFC), the former middleweight champion, is on a two-fight losing streak for the first time in his career. The 35-year-old Nigerian lost a surprising unanimous decision to Sean Strickland in September 2023. In August 2024, he then faced Dricus Du Plessis for the title but suffered a fourth-round submission defeat. This fight provides Adesanya with an opportunity to regain momentum and solidify his status as one of MMA’s top athletes.
Imavov’s Opportunity to Shine
Nassourdine Imavov (15-4 MMA, 7-2 UFC), a 28-year-old Frenchman, enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak, having defeated Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier, and Brendan Allen. Since making his UFC debut in October 2020, Imavov has steadily climbed the middleweight rankings. This main-event matchup is the biggest challenge of his career, giving him the chance to establish himself as a future title contender.
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Full UFC Saudi Arabia Fight Card
In addition to the headliner, the card features several high-profile fights:
- Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov
- Shara Magomedov vs. Michael Page
- Ikram Aliskerov vs. André Muniz
- Sergei Pavlovich vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik
- Hamdy Abdelwahab vs. Jamal Pogues
- Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva
- Shamil Gaziev vs. Thomas Petersen
For fans in Europe, the preliminary card will begin at 2:00 PM GMT, followed by the main card at 5:00 PM GMT, offering a convenient viewing schedule.
UFC’s Growing Presence in the Middle East
This event marks UFC’s second visit to Riyadh following a successful debut in mid-2024. Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly important location for international sports, and UFC’s return signals its commitment to expanding its presence in the region.
Source: MMAnytt.se
