Abu Dhabi adds four exciting bouts to UFC Fight Night
Among the new additions, UAE fans will be watching closely as Emirati lightweight Mohammed Yahya returns to the Octagon to face Dallas-based Steven Nguyen, with both fighters eager to secure their first UFC win in a clash that promises intensity from the opening bell.
The fight card also now features an all-action welterweight clash between 41-year-old veteran Muslim Salikhov and Carlos 'The Lion' Leal, who is 10 years his opponent's junior.
Salikhov, famously known as the 'King of Kung Fu' is one of the most creative and dangerous strikers in the division, while Leal's aggressive pace and fearless approach promise to bring fireworks to the Octagon.
In the women's strawweight division, Brazilian stars Amanda Ribas and Tabatha Ricci are set for a must-watch showdown.
Both are elite grapplers with strong judo and jiu-jitsu backgrounds, but they are also equally capable of standing and trading blows. Ribas returns to Abu Dhabi with fond memories, having secured a win during the UFC's Fight Island series in 2020. Her experience in the UAE could give her an edge, but Ricci's compact striking and tight ground game will present a serious challenge.
Also newly added to the card, Da'Mon Blackshear and Davey Grant will face off in a bantamweight showdown. Blackshear enters the bout on a three-fight win streak, while Grant has claimed victory in three of his last four outings, setting up an enticing contest where something has got to give.
Earlier, UFC CEO Dana White has revealed an incredible card for UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi at the iconic Etihad Arena in Yas Island.
The main event will be headlined by former UFC middleweight champion Whittaker and de Ridder — whose seamless transition from the ONE Championship has been hugely impressive.
White took to social media to announce what promises to be one of the most thrilling Fight Night cards of the year, which will see No12-ranked 185-pounder De Ridder, undefeated in his three UFC bouts to date, likely earn a middleweight title eliminator should he defeat Whittaker.
'De Ridder is a former middleweight and light heavyweight world champion and has finished every one he has fought in the UFC,' White said.
'He's coming off a win over the top prospect in the sport, Bo Nickal. If De Ridder can beat Whittaker, it's very likely he'll be fighting for the No1 contender bout next.
'I am pumped for this fight because these guys are both killers — and they always come out and deliver.'
The main card boasts two five-round bouts and a stacked lineup of electrifying talent, former champions, and elite contenders — all coming together for one of the year's most anticipated international showcases, marking the 21st UFC event in Abu Dhabi since 2010.
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