In a thrilling announcement that has fans buzzing, the UFC has revealed the main event for its highly anticipated Abu Dhabi card on July 25. Former light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev is set to make his comeback against Khalil Rountree Jr., while bantamweight contenders Umar Nurmagomedov and David Martínez will clash in a pivotal co-main event.
This fight marks Ankalaev’s first appearance since his shocking title loss to Alex Pereira last October, where he was stopped in just 80 seconds. With a professional record of 21 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, Ankalaev had previously gone unbeaten in 14 consecutive UFC bouts, including a decision victory over Pereira just months before their title fight.
On the other side of the octagon, Rountree Jr. is eager to bounce back after facing a defeat to former champion Jiri Prochazka on the same night Ankalaev lost his title. The dynamic striker has claimed victory in six of his last eight fights, earning performance bonuses in five of those matchups, showcasing his ability to entertain and deliver.
In the co-main event, Umar Nurmagomedov is on a mission to secure a shot at the bantamweight championship. The Russian fighter has been on a roll, winning his last two bouts against notable opponents Deiveson Figueiredo and Mario Bautista. His only career loss came during a title challenge against Merab Dvalishvili in 2025. Meanwhile, Martínez enters the octagon with a solid professional record of 14-1, boasting victories over tough competitors like Marlon Vera and Rob Font.
UFC fans can look forward to an action-packed night in Abu Dhabi, with a lineup that promises excitement from start to finish. The full card includes:
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.
Umar Nurmagomedov vs. David Martínez
Valter Walker vs. Thomas Petersen
Ismael Bonfim vs. Axel Sola
Tyrell Fortune vs. Rizvan Kuniev
Steve Erceg vs. Ramazan Temirov
Magomed Tuchalov vs. Brendson Ribeiro
Dustin Jacoby vs. Uran Satybaldiev
Islam Dulatov vs. Wellington Turman
As the countdown to this electrifying event begins, fans are left wondering: who will emerge victorious and take a step closer to championship glory?
