Adesanya Headlines UFC’s Saudi Debut

Israel Adesanya, two-time UFC Middleweight Champion, headlines UFC’s first event in Saudi Arabia, facing Nassourdine Imavov in February 2025. The non-title bout, part of Riyadh Season’s sports program, marks Adesanya’s return after his submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305.

Boasting a 24-4 record with 16 knockouts, Adesanya aims to reassert dominance in his first non-title fight since 2019. A win could set up rematches with Sean Strickland or du Plessis, bringing him closer to a historic third middleweight title reign.

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Imavov, an emerging middleweight contender, seeks to capitalise on this high-profile opportunity. Their stylistic clash promises excitement for a global audience, spotlighting the UFC’s Saudi Arabia debut and enhancing Adesanya’s legacy in MMA history.