As the countdown begins for UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025, fight fans across the UAE are gearing up for an action-packed evening that promises high-octane bouts and major implications for the UFC middleweight division. Set to take place on 26 July 2025 at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, the headline match sees former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker face off against the surging Dutch powerhouse Reinier de Ridder in what many are calling a potential title eliminator.
A clash of contenders: Whittaker vs De Ridder
This year’s Fight Night main event brings global attention to Abu Dhabi once again, as Australia’s Robert Whittaker, a seasoned UFC veteran and former titleholder, returns to the Octagon following a brief layoff due to a jaw injury. Known for his technical striking, resilience, and championship pedigree, Whittaker will face an uphill battle against Reinier de Ridder, who has stormed into the UFC ranks with a spotless record and a recent knockout win over Bo Nickal.
This is more than just a fight—it’s a crossroads. A win for either could set up a title shot, especially with the current middleweight division in flux. For Whittaker, it’s about reclaiming relevance; for de Ridder, it’s about proving he belongs among the UFC elite.
Mohammed Yahya returns in a must-win bout
Perhaps even more exciting for UAE fans is the return of Mohammed Yahya, the Emirati fighter who’s back in the cage with renewed fire. After two UFC losses, Yahya relocated to Dubai, dropped to featherweight, and overhauled his training.
He’ll face Steven Nguyen in what many consider to be a “make or break” fight. Yahya’s inclusion on the card adds a strong local flavour, offering UAE fans a chance to rally behind a homegrown athlete. His 12-week Dubai camp made it personal—UAE fans are fully behind him.
Fresh matchups to watch on the undercard
The UFC added several thrilling matchups to the card, treating fans to world-class combat across divisions.
- Muslim Salikhov vs Carlos Leal: A battle between a striking purist and a Brazilian powerhouse. Expect fireworks in this welterweight bout.
- Amanda Ribas vs Tabatha Ricci: A grappling masterclass is on the cards as two Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experts square off in what could be a ground war.
- Da’Mon Blackshear vs Davey Grant: The bantamweight division sees two dynamic fighters aiming to break into the top tier.
Each matchup adds depth and showcases diverse styles for every kind of UFC fan.
UAE pride and international prestige
The Etihad Arena event highlights Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global combat sports hub, drawing top UFC talent to the UAE.
For residents of Dubai and the broader UAE, Fight Night is more than a televised spectacle. It’s a rare opportunity to witness global MMA stars perform live in the Middle East. It’s also a symbol of how far the local combat sports scene has come, with fighters like Yahya emerging as regional ambassadors of the sport.
How to catch the action
UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025 will be broadcast live via ESPN+. UAE viewers can tune in for the prelims starting at 4pm GST, with the main card kicking off at 7pm GST.
Those keen to attend in person should act fast—tickets for Etihad Arena events are known to sell out quickly. Alternatively, Dubai’s vibrant nightlife and sports bar scene means fans can catch the fights at several popular spots showing the card live.
UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event for UAE fight fans. With an explosive main event featuring two top middleweights, a redemption arc for Mohammed Yahya, and a stacked undercard of global contenders, the stage is set for an unforgettable night on Yas Island.
It’s not just a night of fights, it’s a celebration of sport, resilience, and the UAE’s growing influence on the world MMA stage.
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For the latest updates on UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025, athlete profiles, and all things MMA in the UAE, follow Social Kandura for insider coverage, local sports news, and live reactions.
