UFC is back in Abu Dhabi on July 26 at the world-class Etihad Arena, reigniting the energy that made past events unforgettable. This marks the 21st UFC showdown in the city and the first to return to the dazzling Yas Island venue since UFC 308. The event promises to be a seismic moment for MMA fans around the globe.
With its massive 18,000-seat layout, flawless acoustics, and futuristic design, the Etihad Arena continues to be a dream venue for combat sports. This summer, Abu Dhabi isn’t just hosting fights—it’s delivering a high-octane entertainment spectacle.
Main Event Showdown: Whittaker vs de Ridder
Get ready for fireworks as Robert Whittaker, former UFC middleweight champion, takes on the undefeated Reinier de Ridder in a five-round headliner. Both fighters are known for their elite skill sets and relentless pace, making this bout a potential classic.
Whittaker, with years of championship-level experience, seeks to cement his legacy and work his way back to the title picture. Meanwhile, de Ridder—a former two-division champion in another promotion—is making waves with his flawless record and high finishing rate. The stakes are high, and a title shot could await the victor.
Co-Main Event: Featherweight Classic Incoming
In the co-main event, Movsar Evloev faces Aaron Pico in what many expect to be a defining featherweight clash. Evloev brings technical brilliance, undefeated momentum, and the confidence of a rising star.
On the other side, Pico—a former wrestling prodigy turned striking powerhouse—enters the Octagon with a point to prove. This five-round battle has all the makings of a Fight of the Night contender, possibly even a Fight of the Year.
A Star-Studded Undercard
The card is stacked from top to bottom, with explosive talent and redemption arcs woven throughout:
Petr Yan vs Marcus McGhee – Yan returns to the Octagon hungry to reclaim his bantamweight dominance after a rough stretch.
Bryce Mitchell vs Said Nurmagomedov – A high-stakes bantamweight debut for Mitchell, facing a slick, calculated striker.
Shara “Bullet” Magomedov vs Marc-André Barriault – The one-eyed Russian sensation returns, aiming to bounce back from adversity.
Nikita Krylov vs Bogdan Guskov – A light-heavyweight battle with potential top-10 implications.
Also featured are thrilling matchups like Amanda Ribas vs Tabatha Ricci in the women’s strawweight division and Muslim Salikhov vs Carlos Leal Miranda at welterweight, ensuring there’s something for every kind of fan.
Why This Night Matters
This isn’t just another Fight Night—this is a proving ground for future champions. With potential title eliminators at both middleweight and featherweight levels, every round carries weight.
UFC’s long-standing partnership with Abu Dhabi has delivered classic moments, and this year’s return underscores the city’s growing status as a global fight capital. From high-profile bouts to emerging prospects, this card is built to ignite the rankings and shake up divisions.
Event Buzz and Ticket Details
Anticipation is sky-high as fans prepare for one of the summer’s most anticipated live events. The Etihad Arena is expected to be packed, and the experience goes far beyond just the fights.
Doors open at 5:30 PM local time, with ticket prices starting from AED 295. VIP packages offer luxury experiences, including fighter meet-and-greets, exclusive merchandise, and access to hospitality lounges. UFC Fight Night is not just a sporting event—it’s a premium entertainment experience.
Combine that with Abu Dhabi’s five-star hotels, iconic landmarks, and unmatched hospitality, and fans can expect an unforgettable weekend on Yas Island.
Abu Dhabi: The New Home of Combat Sports
Over the past decade, Abu Dhabi has emerged as a premier destination for combat sports, entertainment, and high-end tourism. With a solid track record of hosting blockbuster UFC cards, Formula 1 races, and international concerts, the city blends sport and spectacle like no other.
The Etihad Arena, located in the heart of Yas Bay, provides the perfect setting. Seamless transportation, luxury amenities, and breathtaking waterfront views elevate the fight night experience. It’s no surprise Abu Dhabi has become a recurring headline in UFC’s international calendar.
What to Watch For
Whittaker vs De Ridder – Can the veteran reassert dominance, or will the rising star take over?
Pico vs Evloev – Expect technical brilliance versus explosive power in this featherweight war.
Magomedov’s Redemption – After injury setbacks and an emotional loss, the comeback story is compelling.
Petr Yan’s Return – Can he reignite his championship flame against a dangerous striker?
Every fight carries drama, and every fighter has something to prove. This is a card built on passion, pressure, and the pursuit of greatness.
Final Thoughts
UFC Fight Night: Abu Dhabi is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a celebration of fighting spirit, global unity, and the power of live sport. From seasoned champions to new faces ready to break out, this card delivers pure, unfiltered MMA adrenaline.
So whether you’re planning to be there in person or watching from home, this is one night you won’t want to miss. Prepare for impact—because when the lights go down and the cage doors close on July 26, Abu Dhabi becomes the epicenter of the fight world once again.
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