UFC Fight Night 2025 Abu Dhabi is officially confirmed, and it promises to be one of the most exciting fight nights of the year. The event will take place on July 26, 2025, at the Etihad Arena, and fans can expect a thrilling evening full of intense battles inside the Octagon.
With top names like Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder headlining the card, this fight night is building serious hype among MMA fans worldwide.
Robert Whittaker vs Reinier de Ridder: The Main Event
The main event of UFC Fight Night 2025 Abu Dhabi is a middleweight clash between former UFC champion Robert Whittaker and grappling specialist Reinier de Ridder.
Whittaker, a fan-favorite from Australia, brings years of UFC experience, powerful striking, and a solid ground game. He’s determined to climb his way back to a title shot.
On the other side, de Ridder is known for his dangerous submissions and unbeaten confidence. As a former two-division champion in another major organization, he now has a chance to prove himself on one of the biggest stages in MMA.
This fight could go in any direction—stand-up war or ground battle—and that makes it a must-watch.
Shara Magomedov vs Marc-André Barriault: Co-Main Event
The co-main event is a middleweight battle between Russia’s Shara Magomedov and Canada’s Marc-André Barriault.
Magomedov has earned a strong reputation with his dynamic striking and flashy fight style. He’s fast, dangerous, and knows how to put on a show.
Barriault, however, brings serious toughness and experience. With knockout power and a relentless pace, he’s not going down without a fight.
This is a classic striker-vs-striker battle, and fans are expecting fireworks.
Light Heavyweight Showdowns Add More Firepower
UFC Fight Night 2025 Abu Dhabi also features powerful matchups in the light heavyweight division. These fights could easily steal the show:
- Nikita Krylov vs Bogdan Guskov
This fight brings two explosive athletes face-to-face. Krylov’s well-rounded skills and Guskov’s heavy hands make this a bout that could end in a flash. - Ibo Aslan vs Billy Elekana
Aslan and Elekana are rising stars, both eager to make a big statement. Expect a high-energy clash with powerful exchanges.
Flyweight Rising Talents: Almabayev vs Temirov
In the flyweight division, Asu Almabayev will face Ramazan Temirov. Both fighters come from Central Asia and are known for their quick footwork and technical striking.
This could be a fast-paced contest full of movement, transitions, and crowd-pleasing moments. It’s also a key fight to watch for the future of the division.
Event Details: What You Need to Know
- Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
- Location: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Main Card Start Time: 3:00 PM ET
- Prelims Start Time: 12:00 PM ET
- Broadcast: Available on major sports networks and UFC streaming platforms
Abu Dhabi has become a regular host for big UFC events, and this one continues the tradition. The Etihad Arena is expected to be packed with fans from around the world.
UFC Fight Night 2025 Abu Dhabi Fight Card (So Far)
Here’s a quick look at the confirmed bouts:
- Middleweight Main Event: Robert Whittaker vs Reinier de Ridder
- Middleweight Co-Main: Shara Magomedov vs Marc-André Barriault
- Light Heavyweight: Nikita Krylov vs Bogdan Guskov
- Light Heavyweight: Ibo Aslan vs Billy Elekana
- Flyweight: Asu Almabayev vs Ramazan Temirov
(Note: The card is subject to change based on health, visa issues, and official UFC announcements.)
Why This Fight Night Matters
UFC Fight Night 2025 in Abu Dhabi is more than just another event—it’s a night where rankings, reputations, and future title shots are on the line.
Robert Whittaker wants to prove he’s still among the best middleweights in the world. Reinier de Ridder is trying to show that he belongs in the UFC’s elite group.
For newer fighters like Magomedov and Almabayev, it’s a chance to rise and shine on a global stage. Every fight on this card has something important at stake.
Abu Dhabi’s Growing Role in UFC Events
Over the years, Abu Dhabi has become a favorite UFC destination. Thanks to its top-notch arenas, luxury accommodations, and enthusiastic fans, fighters enjoy coming here.
With Fight Island now a part of UFC history, Abu Dhabi remains a vital international stop for the sport. UFC Fight Night 2025 just adds to that legacy.
Final Thoughts
With a mix of veteran warriors and rising talents, UFC Fight Night 2025 Abu Dhabi is shaping up to be one of the best events of the year. The matchups are exciting, the fighters are hungry, and the stage is set.
If you’re a fan of mixed martial arts, mark your calendar for July 26—it’s going to be a night to remember.
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