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Ankalaev vs. Guskov Set for UFC Abu Dhabi

7/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

UFC Fight Night 282 will take place in Abu Dhabi on July 25, 2026, with Magomed Ankalaev versus Bogdan Guskov.
Guskov took the bout on short notice after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew, rejecting a Jan Blachowicz rematch.
One analyst forecast Ankalaev to win by unanimous decision, citing his technical striking versus Guskov’s pressure.

History

Historical Context

UFC entered the Middle East on April 10, 2010, when UFC 112: Invincible staged in Abu Dhabi after Flash Entertainment bought a 10 % Zuffa stake. The open-air Concert Arena was a temporary venue built for the fight and removed a week later. That debut created a foothold the promotion is extending with the 2026 Fight Night 282 in Abu Dhabi.

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Story summary

UFC Fight Night 282 will take place in Abu Dhabi on July 25, 2026, with Magomed Ankalaev versus Bogdan Guskov.
Guskov took the bout on short notice after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew, rejecting a Jan Blachowicz rematch.
One analyst forecast Ankalaev to win by unanimous decision, citing his technical striking versus Guskov’s pressure.

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