The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is taking the world by storm, and this time, it's heading to Doha, Qatar, for an electrifying event! But here's where it gets controversial—the main event features a lightweight clash that could shake up the division, leaving fans divided on who will emerge victorious.
UFC Qatar: A Battle of Lightweight Contenders
The UFC is bringing the heat to the Middle East, and the stakes couldn't be higher! In the main event, Arman Tsarukyan, the rising star from Russia, will face off against the dangerous New Zealander, Dan Hooker. This fight is a pivotal moment for both contenders, as they aim to solidify their place in the lightweight division.
Tsarukyan, a 29-year-old powerhouse, is on a mission to reclaim his spot as the No. 1 contender after a brief hiatus. With a 4-fight winning streak and a 9-1 record since his debut loss, he's a force to be reckoned with. His recent knockout win over Beneil Dariush and split decision victory over Charles Oliveira have fans buzzing.
But Hooker, the 35-year-old 'Hangman,' is no pushover. Despite injuries slowing him down, he's on a 3-fight winning streak, with back-to-back split decision victories. This fight could be his chance to prove he's a serious title contender.
And this is the part most people miss—the co-main event!
Belal Muhammad, the former welterweight champion, is back in action against the rising star, Ian Machado Garry. Muhammad, after a recent title loss, is determined to reclaim his glory. Garry, with only one defeat, is a force to be reckoned with, having stepped in for Muhammad against Shavkat Rakhmonov.
The welterweight division is heating up, and this fight could determine who gets the next shot at the title. With both fighters hungry for victory, it's a must-watch matchup.
Controversy Alert: Can Volkan Oezdemir Hold His Ground?
In another exciting bout, Volkan Oezdemir, a top 15 staple, takes on Alonzo Menifield. Oezdemir, a seasoned fighter, has struggled for consistency but remains a tough opponent. Menifield, a rising talent, is on a winning streak and aims to break into the top tier of the light heavyweight division.
Will Oezdemir maintain his gatekeeper status, or will Menifield force his way into the upper echelon? This fight is a true test of skill and determination.
Jack Hermansson's Welterweight Debut
Jack Hermansson, a middleweight veteran, is making a bold move by dropping down to welterweight. He'll face Myktybek Orolbai, who is returning to the welterweight division after a stint at lightweight. This fight could be a turning point for both fighters, as they seek to establish themselves in their new weight class.
Heavyweight Showdown: Serghei Spivac vs. Shamil Gaziev
In the heavyweight division, Serghei Spivac, ranked No. 7, is looking to bounce back from a two-fight skid. He takes on Shamil Gaziev, who is on a two-fight winning streak after his first career loss. This matchup could determine who stays relevant in the ever-changing heavyweight ranks.
Flyweight Fireworks: Alex Perez vs. Asu Almabayev
The main card opener features a flyweight clash between Alex Perez and Asu Almabayev. Perez, a former title challenger, is looking to regain his footing after a knee injury. Almabayev, a rising star in the Top 10, is seeking to establish himself as a legitimate contender.
With champion Alexandre Pantoja on the lookout for fresh challengers, this fight could be a stepping stone to a future title shot.
Preliminary Card Highlights
The preliminary card is packed with exciting matchups, including DWCS alum Bogdan Grad welcoming unbeaten Luke Riley to the UFC. Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev, a recent DWCS graduate, will make his debut against Brazil's Rafael Cerqueira. Ranked flyweight Tagir Ulanbekov will face former title challenger Kyoji Horiguchi, who returns to the Octagon after nine years.
The early slate features a fascinating bantamweight matchup between Bekzat Almakhan and Aleksandre Topuria, as well as clashes between middleweights Ismail Naurdiev and Ryan Loder, and lightweights Nurullo Aliev and Shem Rock.
Welcoming the Newcomers: Nicolas Dalby vs. Saygid Izagakhmaev
Danish veteran Nicolas Dalby will welcome welterweight newcomer Saygid Izagakhmaev to the Octagon. Izagakhmaev, with an impressive 22-2 record, is a force to be reckoned with, having defeated the likes of Shinya Aoki and UFC veteran Zhang Lipeng. This fight could be a showcase of emerging talent.
Heavyweight Newcomers: Marek Bujlo vs. Denzel Freeman
The evening kicks off with heavyweight newcomers Marek Bujlo and Denzel Freeman. Bujlo, with a 100% finishing rate, is a force to be reckoned with. Freeman, a former WWE hopeful and U.S. Marine, has earned consecutive stoppage wins. This fight will set the tone for an action-packed night.
UFC Qatar promises to deliver thrilling fights and potential upsets. Who will rise to the occasion and make their mark in the UFC? Tune in on November 22, 2025, and witness the action unfold at ABHA Arena in Doha, Qatar. The prelims start at 10am ET/7am PT, followed by the main card at 1pm ET/10am PT. Don't miss out on this historic event!
