Former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has been tipped as the favorite to defeat France’s Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Fight Night 250, scheduled for February 2025 at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
This marks Adesanya’s first non-title bout since his victory over Anderson Silva in February 2019. The Nigerian-New Zealander headlines the UFC’s debut event in Saudi Arabia after back-to-back losses to current champion, Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2023 and Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in September 2023.
Despite his recent setbacks, Adesanya, known as “The Last Stylebender,” remains one of the UFC’s most prominent stars, boasting a 24-4 record with 16 knockouts.
Brazilian contender, Caio Barralho revealed that Adesanya, 35, chose to face seventh-ranked Imavov over him after discussions. Imavov enters the bout in strong form, riding a three-fight win streak, including victories over Brendan Allen at UFC Paris in September, as well as Jared Cannonier and Roman Dolidze.
Adesanya, renowned for his striking expertise and unique fighting style, has already begun preparations for the bout. Many view it as a pivotal fight for him to regain his momentum and re-establish his position in the middleweight division.
A victory could pave the way for a potential third reign as middleweight champion, with rematches against Strickland or du Plessis looming on the horizon. In the co-main event, Michael “Venom” Page moves up to middleweight to face undefeated striker Shara Magomedov. Magomedov is fresh off a spectacular double-spinning back fist knockout of Armen Petrosyan at UFC 308, marking his 12th knockout in 15 professional wins.
The event is part of Riyadh Season’s ambitious sports program, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global sports arena.
