Two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya is set to headline the first-ever UFC event in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for February 2025.
The highly anticipated bout will see the Nigerian-New Zealander face off against France’s Nassourdine Imavov in a non-title middleweight clash, as part of Riyadh Season’s ambitious sports programme.
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This marks Adesanya’s return to the octagon following a submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024.
Despite the defeat, Adesanya remains one of the UFC’s top stars, with an impressive 24-4 record, including 16 knockout wins. Renowned for his striking prowess and unorthodox fighting style, ‘The Last Stylebender’ will be aiming to reclaim his position as the dominant force in the middleweight division.
The February fight will also mark Adesanya’s first non-title match since his victory over Anderson Silva in February 2019.
A win over Imavov could bring the 35-year-old closer to a historic third reign as middleweight champion, with potential rematches against Sean Strickland or Dricus du Plessis on the horizon.
Imavov, an up-and-coming talent in the middleweight division, will look to make the most of this high-profile opportunity. The clash promises an exciting showdown, with both fighters eager to leave a lasting impression on a global stage.
The event will be the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the kingdom’s growing influence in international sports.
For Adesanya, this fight not only offers the chance to add another win to his storied career but also to cement his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of his era.
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