Adesanya to Headline UFC’s First Saudi Arabia Event

Two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya is set to headline the UFC’s inaugural event in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for February 2025.

The highly anticipated bout will feature Adesanya, the Nigerian-New Zealander, facing France’s Nassourdine Imavov in a non-title clash as part of Riyadh Season’s expansive sports programme.

This marks Adesanya’s return to action following his submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024. 

Despite the setback, Adesanya remains one of the promotion’s biggest stars, boasting an impressive 24-4 record, including 16 knockout victories. Known for his striking mastery and unorthodox style, The Last Stylebender aims to reassert his dominance in the middleweight division.

The February matchup will be Adesanya’s first non-title fight since his win over Anderson Silva in February 2019. A victory could position the 35-year-old for a historic third reign as middleweight champion, with potential rematches against Sean Strickland or du Plessis on the horizon.

Imavov, a rising contender in the middleweight division, will look to seize this career-defining opportunity and showcase his skills on the global stage. The bout promises a compelling clash of styles, with both fighters eager to make a statement.

This event not only marks the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia but also highlights the kingdom’s growing influence in international sports.

For Adesanya, the fight offers more than just a path back to title contention—it’s a chance to further cement his legacy as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time.