Abu dhabi: UFC, the world's premier mixed martial arts organisation, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has announced two additional bouts for UFC® Fight Night: Ankalaev vs Rountree JR., taking place on 25th July at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
According to Emirates News Agency, making his highly anticipated UFC debut, undefeated lightweight Magomed "Chanco" Zaynukov from Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, will face fellow undefeated lightweight Damian Rzepecki from Poland in a clash of unbeaten prospects. Zaynukov, an accomplished Muay Thai fighter, earned his UFC contract with a unanimous decision victory on Dana White's Contender Series. He now looks to extend his unbeaten record against the Polish prospect, who has recorded nine finishes in 10 professional victories.
Also added to the card is a welterweight contest between Santiago Ponzinibbio from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Sam Patterson from Watford, England. Ponzinibbio returns to Abu Dhabi for the first time since competing in 2021 and aims to add another victory to his r©sum©. Meanwhile, Patterson looks to build on his recent momentum after winning four of his last five UFC appearances.
The event will be headlined by former UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 1 ranked Magomed Ankalaev from Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, who will take on No. 5 ranked Khalil Rountree Jr. from Las Vegas, Nevada. This pivotal light heavyweight showdown will see the winner move one step closer to a UFC title opportunity.