Post by : Bianca
Haleem
The UFC, the world’s leading mixed martial arts organisation, has announced two additional fights for UFC® Fight Night: Ankalaev vs Rountree Jr., in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).
The event will take place on 25 July at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, adding more exciting matchups to an already highly anticipated fight card.
Magomed Zaynukov Makes UFC Debut Against Damian Rzepecki
Undefeated lightweight prospect Magomed “Chanco” Zaynukov (8-0) will make his official UFC debut against fellow unbeaten fighter Damian Rzepecki (10-0) of Poland.
Zaynukov, who represents Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, secured his UFC contract after earning a unanimous decision victory on Dana White’s Contender Series.
The skilled Muay Thai fighter will look to continue his perfect professional record against Rzepecki, who has delivered an impressive run with nine finishes in 10 professional victories.
The lightweight contest will feature two undefeated fighters aiming to make a strong impact on the UFC stage.
Santiago Ponzinibbio Faces Sam Patterson in Welterweight Clash
The fight card will also feature an exciting welterweight matchup between Santiago Ponzinibbio (31-9) and Sam Patterson (13-2).
Ponzinibbio, who fights out of Buenos Aires, Argentina, will return to Abu Dhabi for the first time since competing in 2021. He will look to secure another important victory in his UFC career.
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His opponent, Sam Patterson, fighting out of Watford, England, enters the contest after building momentum with victories in four of his last five UFC appearances.
Main Event: Ankalaev vs Rountree Jr. Light Heavyweight Showdown
The event will be headlined by former UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 1 ranked contender Magomed Ankalaev (21-2-1) against No. 5 ranked Khalil Rountree Jr. (15-7, 1 NC).
Ankalaev, representing Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, will face Rountree Jr., who fights out of Las Vegas, Nevada, in a major light heavyweight battle.
The winner of the headline fight will move closer to a potential UFC title opportunity.
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