The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make history with its first-ever event in Saudi Arabia. On June 22, fight fans will witness a marquee middleweight bout between former champion Robert Whittaker and rising star Khamzat Chimaev.
The stakes are high, as the winner of this clash will earn a shot at the middleweight title currently held by Dricus du Plessis.
A Clash of Titans
In a groundbreaking move, the UFC has chosen the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the stage for this epic showdown.
Whittaker, ranked No. 4 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie middleweight rankings, aims to continue his momentum after a decisive unanimous decision victory over Paulo Costa in February. Meanwhile, Chimaev, undefeated with a 13-0 record, returns to action after his last victory against former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman.
The Main Event: Whittaker vs. Chimaev
Whittaker’s Redemption Quest
Whittaker’s journey has been one of resilience and determination. After a loss to Du Plessis, he bounced back with two wins in his last three fights. His striking prowess, grappling skills, and championship experience make him a formidable opponent.
Whittaker’s hunger to reclaim the title drives him forward, and he knows that a victory over Chimaev will propel him back into the spotlight.
Chimaev’s Meteoric Rise
Chimaev burst onto the scene with a series of dominant performances. His relentless pressure, ground-and-pound game, and unyielding spirit have captivated fans worldwide. His victory over Usman showcased his versatility and ability to adapt.
Now, he faces his toughest challenge yet in Whittaker. Can Chimaev continue his meteoric rise and secure a title shot?
The Supporting Cast: Other Exciting Bouts
While the main event takes center stage, the UFC Saudi Arabia card features other thrilling matchups:
- Sergei Pavlovich vs. Alexander Volkov: Two heavyweights collide, each aiming for a statement win.
- Kelvin Gastelum vs. Daniel Rodriguez: A clash of styles as Gastelum’s boxing meets Rodriguez’s well-rounded skills.
- Volkan Oezdemir vs. Johnny Walker: Light heavyweights with knockout power vie for supremacy.
- Shara Magomedov vs. Ihor Potieria: A battle of submission specialists in the lightweight division.
