A fight between Abubakar Vagaev and Magomedrasul Gasanov is in development for the UFC event in Abu Dhabi scheduled for July 25. The post cites Vestnik MMA as the source and confirms that the author's own sources verify negotiations are ongoing. The author humorously notes this could be a "cunning plan" by ACA and suggests fans might be in for 15 minutes of grappling action. The potential matchup between two top ACA fighters represents an interesting stylistic clash for the UFC middleweight division.
Reports out of Russia suggest the UFC is in the process of negotiating a middleweight bout between Abubakar Vagaev and Magomedrasul Gasanov for the promotion's Abu Dhabi card scheduled for July 25, though the matchup has not been officially confirmed.
The story originates from Vestnik MMA, with additional sourcing indicating that talks between the parties are actively ongoing. As of now, neither the UFC nor either fighter's camp has made a formal announcement, and the bout should be treated as unconfirmed.
Both Vagaev and Gasanov have built their reputations largely through Absolute Championship Akhmat, where each established himself as one of the more formidable middleweights outside the UFC's roster. Their shared background in grappling-heavy competition has drawn attention to the stylistic implications of a potential meeting between them, with observers noting the contest could develop into a grinding, mat-based affair if it does come together.
Why it matters
- Both fighters carry ACA pedigree, making this a potential showcase of Russian regional MMA talent on a major UFC platform
- A grappling-oriented matchup at middleweight on a UFC Abu Dhabi card would carry divisional exposure for whichever fighter earns a win
- The bout remains unconfirmed, so any rankings or contractual implications are contingent on negotiations being finalized
