Israel Adesanya Set for UFC Return in Saudi Arabia

Israel Adesanya Set for UFC Return Against Nassourdine Imavov in Saudi Arabia.

Two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is gearing up for his highly anticipated return to the octagon. He is set to face French contender Nassourdine Imavov in February 2025, headlining the UFC’s first-ever event in Saudi Arabia.

Adesanya’s Comeback After Consecutive Losses

This marks Israel Adesanya’s first non-title fight since his 2019 victory over Anderson Silva. Adesanya, known as “The Last Stylebender,” is looking to bounce back from two consecutive losses, including a submission defeat to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024.

Despite recent setbacks, Adesanya remains a major force in the UFC with a record of 24 wins and 4 losses, including 16 knockout victories. His striking finesse and unorthodox style have earned him a reputation as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of his generation.

Why Adesanya Chose Imavov

Brazilian contender Caio Barralho revealed that Adesanya chose to fight Nassourdine Imavov instead of him after negotiations. This strategic matchup gives Adesanya an opportunity to regain momentum in the middleweight division.

A victory against Imavov could potentially pave the way for:

A historic third reign as middleweight champion

Rematches with Sean Strickland or Dricus du Plessis

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Imavov: A Rising French Contender

Nassourdine Imavov is an emerging threat in the middleweight division, known for his versatility and resilience. The fight presents a significant challenge for Adesanya, as Imavov looks to make a statement by defeating one of the division’s biggest stars.

UFC’s Saudi Arabia Debut

This bout will headline the UFC’s first event in Saudi Arabia as part of the Riyadh Season sports program. Saudi Arabia continues to expand its presence in global sports, making this a landmark event for both the UFC and the region.

Legacy on the Line

For Israel Adesanya, this fight is about more than just a win — it’s about solidifying his legacy. A successful return against Nassourdine Imavov could mark the beginning of another title chase, cementing Adesanya’s status as one of the UFC’s all-time greats.