UFC Saudi Arabia Weigh-In Results for February 1 Card
The official weigh-ins for UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov, set for February 1, 2025, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have officially concluded. All fighters have successfully made weight for the event, which is anticipated to be one of the biggest mixed martial arts (MMA) spectacles in the region. This marks a major step in the UFC’s ongoing expansion into Saudi Arabia, which has been part of a broader strategy to host large-scale sporting events in the Kingdom as part of its Vision 2030 program.
UFC President Dana White has long expressed interest in bringing the sport of MMA to Saudi Arabia, and with this highly anticipated event, the UFC is clearly solidifying its presence in the Middle East. The main event will feature former UFC Middleweight Champion Israel “The Last Stylebender” Adesanya, who is taking on the rising star Nassourdine Imavov in a highly competitive middleweight showdown.
Main Card Weigh-In Results
The weigh-in session, held at the official UFC Fight Night venue, saw fighters from both the main and co-main events step onto the scale, with everyone successfully making weight. Here’s a breakdown of the official weigh-in results for the fighters competing on the main card:
- Middleweight Bout:
- Israel Adesanya: 185 lbs
- Nassourdine Imavov: 185 lbs
Both Adesanya and Imavov hit the middleweight limit, setting the stage for what is expected to be an exciting bout. Adesanya, the former UFC Middleweight Champion, will be looking to regain his title, while Imavov is hoping to secure a significant career milestone by defeating the renowned striker.
- Middleweight Bout:
- Shara Magomedov: 185 lbs
- Michael “Venom” Page: 185 lbs
Another exciting middleweight clash sees the rising Russian talent Shara Magomedov face off against England’s Michael “Venom” Page. Both fighters are known for their striking prowess, and fans are expecting a highly dynamic and entertaining battle in this contest.
- Heavyweight Bout:
- Sergei Pavlovich: 265 lbs
- Jairzinho Rozenstruik: 265 lbs
In the heavyweight division, two of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists will face off. Sergei Pavlovich and Jairzinho Rozenstruik both hit the heavyweight limit of 265 lbs, and fans can expect a fast-paced contest, with both fighters known for their explosive knockout power.
- Lightweight Bout:
- Muhammad Naimov: 155 lbs
- Fares Ziam: 155 lbs
The lightweight division will feature a contest between the experienced Fares Ziam and the up-and-coming Muhammad Naimov. Both fighters made weight at the 155 lbs limit, and this bout is expected to be a fast-paced battle for positioning in the competitive lightweight division.
- Bantamweight Bout:
- Said Nurmagomedov: 135 lbs
- Sharabutdin Magomedov: 135 lbs
In what promises to be a technical and strategic fight, Said Nurmagomedov faces off against Sharabutdin Magomedov in the bantamweight division. Both fighters come from strong wrestling backgrounds, but they also have the striking ability to make this an exciting battle on the feet.
Catchweight Issue:
One notable issue that arose during the weigh-ins was the catchweight bout between Lucas Alexander and Bogdan Grad. Alexander tipped the scales at 148.5 lbs, which is 2.5 lbs over the featherweight limit. As a result, the fight will proceed at a catchweight, with Alexander forfeiting 30% of his purse to his opponent, Grad, in accordance with UFC rules. While this is a minor setback, both fighters are still set to put on an exciting performance for the fans in attendance.
Event Expectations and Key Matchups
The UFC has steadily built a strong fanbase in Saudi Arabia, and this event is expected to draw in a large audience, both in-person and via broadcast. With the main event featuring Israel Adesanya, one of the sport’s most exciting and recognizable fighters, it’s no surprise that tickets for UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov sold out quickly.
Adesanya, who is known for his striking and dynamic fighting style, will be facing a tough challenge in Nassourdine Imavov, a talented fighter from France who has shown significant promise. Imavov is eager to make a statement and prove that he is ready for a title shot, and this fight will likely be a defining moment in his career.
The co-main event, featuring Shara Magomedov and Michael “Venom” Page, promises to bring more excitement, as both fighters are known for their high-level striking. Magomedov, a native of Russia, is an excellent kickboxer with a well-rounded skill set, while Page is a seasoned veteran with a unique style that often dazzles fans. Expect fireworks in this middleweight clash.
UFC’s Strategic Expansion into Saudi Arabia
The UFC’s expansion into Saudi Arabia is part of a broader trend of the Kingdom becoming a global hub for major sporting events. This move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and promote sports as an integral part of Saudi culture. The Kingdom has already hosted several international sporting events, including Formula E races, boxing bouts, and tennis exhibitions, and now MMA is on its way to becoming another cornerstone of the country’s growing sports scene.
The success of UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia could lead to more events in the future, including potential pay-per-view shows. Given the massive investments being made in sports infrastructure and the Kingdom’s desire to attract tourists and international talent, the UFC’s presence in Saudi Arabia is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Global Broadcast and Viewing Information
For fans outside Saudi Arabia, UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov will be available for live streaming on ESPN+ in the United States and through UFC’s digital platforms worldwide. The preliminary fights will begin at 9:00 AM ET / 6:00 AM PT, with the main card following at 12:00 PM ET / 9:00 AM PT. Fans around the world will have the opportunity to witness the action as it unfolds live from Riyadh.
Conclusion: What to Expect from UFC Saudi Arabia Event
With the weigh-ins now officially completed and all fighters on target for their respective bouts, the stage is set for UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov. The event promises to deliver top-tier action, with star power, exciting matchups, and the opportunity for fighters to make their mark on the global stage.
As UFC continues to establish itself in the Middle East, this event marks a milestone in the sport’s growing popularity in Saudi Arabia. Expect a night full of thrilling fights, as some of the world’s best mixed martial artists showcase their skills on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
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