UFC: Adesanya set to make history in first UFC fight in Saudi Arabia

By Tosin Omojola

Two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya is poised to make history as the headliner for the UFC’s first-ever event in Saudi Arabia, set for February 2025.

The highly anticipated bout will feature the Nigerian-New Zealander facing France’s Nassourdine Imavov in a non-title clash, forming part of Riyadh Season’s ambitious sports program.

This event 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. Renowned for his striking precision and unorthodox fighting style, ‘The Last Stylebender’ aims to re-establish his dominance in the middleweight division.

The February fight will also be Adesanya’s first non-title appearance since his victory over Anderson Silva in February 2019. A win against Imavov could set the stage for the 35-year-old to edge closer to an unprecedented third reign as middleweight champion, with potential rematches against Sean Strickland or du Plessis on the horizon.

Adesanya’s opponent, Nassourdine Imavov, is a rising contender in the middleweight division, eager to seize this high-profile opportunity. The clash promises an electrifying showcase of contrasting styles, with both fighters determined to make a statement on the global stage.

This event also marks the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the kingdom’s increasing influence in global sports.

For Adesanya, the fight offers more than a chance to secure another win; it’s an opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of his era.