The UFC returns to its Fight Island venue on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, UAE, for a highly anticipated Fight Night event, marking the first of two scheduled appearances in the region this year. The main attraction features former light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev facing Bogdan Guskov.
Ankalaev enters this bout following a title defense loss to Alex Pereira at UFC 320, ending a 14-fight unbeaten streak that included his UFC 313 victory over Pereira. Guskov, a replacement for injured Khalil Rountree Jr., steps in on short notice after a UFC debut loss followed by four consecutive wins. His recent majority draw against Jan Blachowicz at UFC 323 highlights his potential in the Octagon.
In the co-main event, flyweight title hopeful Steve Erceg faces Ramazan Temirov. Erceg looks to extend his two-fight winning streak after victories over Ode’ Osbourne and Tim Elliott. Temirov, meanwhile, aims to continue his 11-fight unbeaten run, including UFC finishes of CJ Vergara and a decision win over Charles Johnson.
The main card also includes matchups between Islam Dulatov and Wellington Turman, Damian Rzepecki and Magomed Zaynukov, Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune, and Abubakar Vagaev and Saygid Izagakhmaev.
ISLAM DULATOV VS WELLINGTON TURMAN
Islam Dulatov (11-1) has emerged as a rising star in the welterweight division. Standing 6’3″ with a 75-inch reach, he combines high-volume striking with finishing versatility, securing early-round stoppages via KO/TKO or submission. His recent UFC debut victory over Adam Fugitt underscored his growing reputation.
Veteran Wellington Turman, returning for his first fight since December 2023, seeks to disrupt Dulatov with grappling expertise. However, a three-fight losing streak suggests Dulatov holds a clear advantage in this matchup.
BET: Dulatov to win via KO/TKO in Round 1 (FanDuel: -110)
VALTER WALKER VS THOMAS PETERSEN
Valter Walker’s heavyweight ascent has been marked by dominant submission victories, positioning him as a key talent in a shallow division. Despite Petersen’s wrestling background and submission-free record, Walker’s upward trajectory makes him a compelling choice.
BET: Walker via submission (DraftKings: +165)
DUSTIN JACOBY VS MUHAMMAD SAID
Dustin Jacoby leverages his kickboxing pedigree for explosive striking, entering this bout on a three-fight KO/TKO streak. Muhammad Said, fighting in front of his home crowd, showcases finishing ability but faces questions about his competition level.
BET: Fight to end via KO/TKO/DQ (Caesars: -125)
