UFC August 13, 2025

UFC 321 Set to Ignite Abu Dhabi – Saturday, 25 October 2025

Main Card & Prelims Preview: Seven bouts, one pyrotechnic night – UFC 321 Abu Dhabi 2025 promises an incendiary spectacle in the UAE capital.

A Night of Elite Combat at Etihad Arena

Don’t miss the action as we dive into the details of UFC 321 Abu Dhabi 2025.

The UFC returns to the Middle East with a blockbuster card that melds championship stakes, rising contenders, and regional rivalries. From Tom Aspinall’s heavyweight title defence against Ciryl Gane to a stacked prelim lineup featuring flyweight and strawweight prospects, UFC 321 is set to deliver high-octane action in one of combat sport’s most electrifying destinations.

Whether you’re a seasoned fight fan or new to the sport, this card offers something for everyone. Secure your ticketed packages now with ES Sport and be part of one of the most anticipated MMA nights of the year.

Main Event: Aspinall vs. Gane – Heavyweight Title Showdown

Tom Aspinall, the reigning champion and one of the most technically gifted heavyweights in the sport, returns to defend his crown against Ciryl Gane, a master of movement and precision. Aspinall’s explosive striking and grappling versatility will be tested against Gane’s elusive footwork and cerebral approach. It’s a stylistic clash that has fans and analysts buzzing—a true chess match with knockout potential.

Main Card Highlights

Volkov vs. Almeida – Heavyweight Collision

Alexander Volkov, the towering Russian tactician, locks horns with Brazil’s grappling juggernaut, Jailton Almeida. It’s a clash of styles—Volkov’s rangy kickboxing and veteran savvy against Almeida’s suffocating pressure and ground control. With both men perched inside the top five, this bout isn’t just a test of skill—it’s a potential launchpad to a title shot.

Rakic vs. Murzakanov – Light Heavyweight Fireworks

Aleksandar Rakić, known for his surgical striking and athleticism, returns to the Octagon after a long injury layoff to face Azamat Murzakanov, an undefeated Russian with thunderous knockout power. Rakić’s calculated approach will be tested against Murzakanov’s aggressive style, making this a must-watch for fans of high-stakes chess matches with brutal consequences.

Prelim Spotlight: Rising Stars & Fan Favourites

While not officially part of the main card, the prelims for UFC 321 are stacked with compelling matchups that could easily steal the show.

Barnett vs. Abdelwahab – Heavyweight Fan-Favourite Returns

Chris Barnett, the flamboyant heavyweight with a cult following, makes his long-awaited comeback—nearly a year after a knee injury halted his momentum at this very venue. Famous for his spinning strikes and infectious charisma, Barnett (23-9 MMA, 2-3 UFC) is out to reinvigorate his UFC journey and remind fans why they fell in love with him.

Standing in his way is Egypt’s Hamdy Abdelwahab (4-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC), a powerhouse wrestler hungry to climb the ranks. After serving a suspension for a tainted supplement, Abdelwahab returned earlier this year with mixed results. For both men, this fight is more than a matchup—it’s a shot at redemption. Expect an explosive encounter.

Aliskerov vs. Park – Middleweight Clash of Styles

Ikram Aliskerov (16-2 MMA, 3-1 UFC), a Dagestani standout with a well-rounded arsenal, takes on South Korea’s Jun Yong Park (19-6 MMA, 9-3 UFC), nicknamed “The Iron Turtle” for his durability and grinding approach. Aliskerov’s explosive finishing ability stands in stark contrast to Park’s relentless pressure and unfathomable endurance. It’s a stylistic chess match that could deliver a technical gem.

Maksum vs. Raposo – Flyweight Prospects Collide

Kazakhstan’s Azat Maksum (15-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) squares off against American Mitch Raposo (9-3 MMA, 0-2 UFC) in a flyweight bout that could shape the future of the division. Maksum, a former regional champion, is known for his dynamic striking and scrambling ability. Raposo, a Dana White’s Contender Series alum, brings slick boxing plus a score to settle and something to prove after a tough start in the UFC.

Amorim vs. Inoue – Strawweight Specialists Square Up

Brazil’s Jaqueline Amorim (10-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) meets Japan’s Mizuki Inoue (15-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) in a strawweight clash that pits submission prowess against veteran savvy. Amorim, a BJJ world champion, has quickly made her mark in the UFC with aggressive grappling and early finishes. Inoue, returning from a lengthy layoff, brings crisp striking and well-rounded skills honed through years of international competition. With both fighters eyeing a spot in the top 15, this bout promises a technical showcase with real implications for the division.

Global Stage, Local Passion

With fighters representing England, France, Russia, Brazil, Egypt, Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan, and the United States, UFC 321 is a truly international celebration of combat. The Etihad Arena—now a second home for mixed martial arts—will be buzzing with anticipation as fans from around the world converge on Yas Island.

From the opening bell to the final roar of appreciation, expect a night of unforgettable moments, dramatic outcomes, and world-class production.

Don’t Miss Out

Reserve your UFC 321 ticketed packages with ES Sport and secure the best seats in the house. Witness history in the making as champions rise, contenders clash, and legends are forged under the lights in Abu Dhabi.

For the ultimate fight week experience, join former UFC Champion Michael Bisping for Tales from the Octagon—a night of raw storytelling, razor-sharp humour, and exclusive hospitality on 23 October. Explore the dinner experience and reserve your place before it’s gone.