A potential matchup between Abubakar Vagaev and Magomedrasul Gasanov is being developed for UFC's Abu Dhabi event on July 25. The post suggests that connections played a significant role in both fighters joining the UFC, with Khamzat Chimaev reportedly helping Vagaev and Khabib Nurmagomedov or Islam Makhachev assisting Gasanov. The author notes this fight was previously anticipated in ACA and expresses excitement that it could now happen on a bigger stage with Chimaev and Khabib potentially cornering the respective fighters. However, concerns are raised about how UFC will promote and position these grappling-heavy fighters going forward, given Dana White's known preferences.
A welterweight clash between Abubakar Vagaev and Magomedrasul Gasanov is reportedly being developed for the UFC's Abu Dhabi event scheduled for July 25, though neither the promotion nor the fighters have officially confirmed the booking.
The report indicates that high-profile connections within the sport may have played a role in both men earning UFC contracts. Khamzat Chimaev, the 32-year-old middleweight contender ranked first in his division with a 15-1 record, is said to have been instrumental in bringing Vagaev to the organization. Chimaev, who fights out of the UAE and carries a 60 percent striking accuracy alongside 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, could reportedly serve as a cornerman for Vagaev on fight night.
On the other side, undefeated retired legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, or current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, is said to have assisted in securing Gasanov's UFC deal. Nurmagomedov, who finished his career at 29-0, averaged 5.32 takedowns per 15 minutes across his tenure. Makhachev currently holds the welterweight title at 28-1, operates out of Eagles MMA, and posts a 58 percent striking accuracy with 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes.
The report also notes the matchup was previously anticipated to take place in ACA, making the prospect of it occurring on a larger global stage a notable development for fans of either fighter.
Why it matters
- Both fighters are described as grappling-heavy, which sets up a technically compelling matchup between two similar styles
- The potential cornering presence of Chimaev and either Nurmagomedov or Makhachev adds significant storyline weight to the bout
- Questions are raised about how the UFC will market and position wrestlers in this mold given the promotion's historically mixed approach to grappling-focused fighters
- As an unconfirmed report, the fight's placement on the July 25 Abu Dhabi card remains subject to change
