Israel Adesanya Set for High-Stakes Return Against Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Fight Night in Riyadh
Mark your calendars, fight fans! Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is stepping back into the Octagon for his first non-title fight since 2019. The highly anticipated showdown will see “The Last Stylebender” take on rising star Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Fight Night on February 1 at the anb Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is a fight you won’t want to miss!
Adesanya (24-4) is coming off a rough patch in his otherwise stellar career. For the first time ever, the 35-year-old has suffered back-to-back losses in the UFC. In September 2023, he lost his middleweight title in a shocking upset to Sean Strickland. Then, in August, his attempt to reclaim the 185-pound belt ended in disappointment when he was submitted by current champion Dricus du Plessis. Now, Adesanya is looking to bounce back and remind the world why he’s considered one of the greatest middleweights in UFC history.
Standing in his way is Nassourdine Imavov (15-4), a 29-year-old fighter out of Paris who’s been on a tear in the middleweight division. Imavov has racked up three consecutive wins, defeating Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier, and Brendan Allen. Currently ranked No. 5 in the UFC middleweight division, Imavov is hungry for a win that could catapult him into the title picture. With Du Plessis set to defend his belt against Strickland at UFC 312 on February 9, a victory over Adesanya could make Imavov the next big name in the division.
What’s at Stake for Adesanya?
For Adesanya, this fight is about more than just getting back in the win column. It’s about proving that he still belongs at the top of the middleweight division. At 35, the clock is ticking, and a third consecutive loss could raise questions about his future in the sport. But if there’s one thing we know about Adesanya, it’s that he thrives under pressure. Expect him to bring his signature striking and unorthodox style to the Octagon as he looks to silence the doubters.
Imavov’s Big Opportunity
On the flip side, this is a career-defining moment for Imavov. A win over a legend like Adesanya would solidify his status as a legitimate title contender. Known for his well-rounded skill set and ability to adapt to any opponent, Imavov will need to be at his absolute best to pull off the upset. Can he handle the bright lights and the pressure of a main event against one of the sport’s biggest stars? We’re about to find out.
Co-Main Event: A Striking Masterclass
As if the main event wasn’t enough, the co-main event promises to be a strikers’ delight. Undefeated Dagestani sensation Shara Magomedov (15-0) will face off against kickboxing phenom Michael “Venom” Page (22-3) in a middleweight clash that has fans buzzing.
Magomedov, nicknamed “Shara Bullet,” is coming off a jaw-dropping double-spinning back fist knockout of Armen Petrosyan at UFC 308 in October. The 30-year-old is currently ranked No. 14 in the middleweight division and has 12 knockout wins to his name. Fighting out of Dagestan, Russia, Magomedov is a force to be reckoned with.
Meanwhile, Page is making his middleweight debut after a successful run in the welterweight division. The 37-year-old Londoner is known for his flashy striking and highlight-reel finishes. However, he’s coming off a unanimous decision loss to Ian Machado Garry in June and will be looking to make a statement in his new weight class. Can “MVP” handle the power and precision of Magomedov, or will the Dagestani phenom add another knockout to his resume?
Key Takeaways
- Israel Adesanya is fighting to reclaim his status as one of the best middleweights in UFC history.
- Nassourdine Imavov has a chance to break into the title picture with a win over Adesanya.
- The co-main event features two elite strikers in Shara Magomedov and Michael Page, promising fireworks for fans.
With so much on the line, UFC Fight Night in Riyadh is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. Whether you’re rooting for the seasoned veteran or the hungry up-and-comer, one thing is certain: this card is stacked with must-watch matchups. Don’t miss it!
Originally Written by: Brett Okamoto
