Two-time UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel Adesanya, is set to make history as the headliner for the first UFC event in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for February 2025.
The highly anticipated fight will see the Nigerian-New Zealander take on France’s Nassourdine Imavov in a non-title bout as part of Riyadh Season’s ambitious sports programme.
This marks Adesanya’s return to the octagon following his submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024.
Despite the setback, Adesanya remains one of the UFC’s biggest stars, boasting an impressive 24-4 record with 16 knockout wins. Known for his striking finesse and unorthodox fighting style, ‘The Last Stylebender’ will aim to re-establish his dominance in the middleweight division.
The February clash will also be Adesanya’s first non-title fight since his victory over Anderson Silva in February 2019.
A win against Imavov could propel the 35-year-old closer to a historic third reign as middleweight champion, with potential rematches against Sean Strickland or du Plessis looming on the horizon.
Adesanya’s opponent, Nassourdine Imavov, is an emerging force in the middleweight division and will look to capitalise on this high-profile opportunity. The bout promises an electrifying mix of styles, with both fighters eager to make a statement in front of a global audience.
The event will be the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia, further cementing the kingdom’s growing influence in global sports.
For Adesanya, the fight offers a chance not only to add another victory to his illustrious career but also to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of his generation.
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