Islam Dulatov vs. Wellington Turman set for UFC Abu Dhabi on July 25

Islam Dulatov and Wellington Turman have been booked to meet at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 25, adding a middleweight clash to what is shaping up to be a significant summer card.

Dulatov, nicknamed "The Ripper," enters the bout riding a 1-0 start to his UFC career and carries an overall professional record of 12-1-0. The 27-year-old German fighting out of Triple One Gym stands six-foot-three with a 75-inch reach and has quickly drawn attention for his striking output — landing an eye-catching 8.78 significant strikes per minute at 54 percent accuracy. He also averages 2.2 takedowns per 15 minutes, signaling a well-rounded threat despite arriving relatively fresh on the UFC roster.

Turman, the Brazilian veteran known as "The Prodigy," brings considerably more Octagon experience to the matchup. The 29-year-old out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness holds a UFC record of 3-6 and an overall mark of 18-8-0. Standing six feet tall with a 72-inch reach, Turman works from an orthodox stance and averages 3.23 significant strikes per minute at 51 percent accuracy. He also mixes in a grappling dimension, posting 1.55 takedowns and 0.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes, suggesting he is comfortable wherever a fight goes.

Why it matters

• Dulatov's striking volume is among the highest in the division and will be tested against a durable, experienced opponent in Turman.
• Turman has faced stiff UFC competition throughout his promotional run and will look to build on his three wins inside the Octagon.
• The size and reach advantage belongs to Dulatov at six-foot-three versus Turman's six-foot frame, a factor that could influence the striking exchanges.
• A Dulatov victory would strengthen his case for a ranked middleweight opponent, while Turman needs a win to avoid further slipping down the divisional ladder.