UFC and the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced two additional bouts set to take place at this Saturday’s highly anticipated UFC Fight Night at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The always exciting undefeated lightweight Magomed Chanco Zaynukov makes his UFC debut against fellow unbeaten prospect Damian Rzepecki.
Zaynukov earned his UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series with a dominant unanimous decision win, while Rzepecki (9 finishes in 10 pro wins) made the jump to the Octagon at his most recent outing.
A matchup I am really excited to see on the fight card is Santiago Ponzinibbio taking on Sam Patterson at welterweight. Ponzinibbio returns to Abu Dhabi for the first time since 2021, looking to land yet another huge win in front of his name, while continuing to rewrite the history books is Patterson who has gone 4-1 across his last five UFC appearances.
Newly Announced Fight Card Highlights
This latest line-up will ensure fight fans going to the event have even more action to enjoy.
New bouts include:
- Magomed Chanco Zaynukov vs. Damian Rzepecki — Lightweight
- Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Sam Patterson This fight may be grossly one sided
- Zaynukov, who earned his UFC contract via Dana White’s Contender Series, is making his debut in the promotion.
- Rzepecki comes into the contest with a perfect pro record.
Main Event and Ticket Information
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, No. 1 Magomed Ankalaev (18-0), takes on and No. Ex-phone Khalil Rountree Jr. (12-3) in the main event matchup headlined at a light heavyweight contest for points of stay active or index cards average value, Oct 2023. It could see the victor get one step closer to a UFC title shot.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, July 25
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Light Heavyweight | Magomed Ankalaev vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.
Price: From AED 195 — On sale now through Ticketmaster. ae.
UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi boasts a thrilling card full of undefeated prospects, seasoned contenders and a title-elimination main event that is sure to serve up an action packed evening for MMA fans.