Israel Adesanya’s challenging 2024 is coming to a close, but exciting news is already on the horizon for 2025. After suffering a shocking defeat to Sean Strickland and failing to reclaim his title against the reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis, Adesanya’s journey seemed uncertain. However, Dana White has announced some massive news that has fans buzzing with excitement.

The UFC CEO shared in a high-energy video on X that Adesanya will be making his highly anticipated return in 2025 to face #5 ranked Nassourdine Imavov. The head honcho couldn’t contain his enthusiasm as he hyped up the fight, highlighting the impressive accolades and skill sets of both fighters. Wrapping up his announcement, he beamed with excitement, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, we are returning to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 1. I’ll see you there!”

Naturally, given the location, Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), also weighed in on the monumental event. The World Boxing Council (WBC) ‘Man of the Year’ took to his own X account to further fuel the anticipation, “Mark your calendars for an epic clash between Israel Adesanya vs Nassourdine Imavov, and Shara Magomedov vs Michael Page in a middleweight battle that will leave you on the edge of your seat at UFC Fight Night on February 1st. Tickets drop January 3rd.”

Conor McGregor, who has been absent from the octagon for almost three years due to a combination of injuries and legal issues, hasn’t lost his enthusiasm for the sport. Recently, McGregor shared the news of Alalshikh being named the World Boxing Council’s ‘Man of the Year’ on his Instagram stories, captioning it simply as “Legendary.” It’s clear that McGregor, despite being away from competition, still holds a deep connection to the fighting world and recognizes the importance of key figures like Alalshikh.

Meanwhile, White is now making good on his promise to bring the UFC model to the sport with the help of the Saudi Arabian adviser. White’s collaboration with Alalshikh is beginning to bear fruit, as they work together to bring more UFC events to Saudi Arabia. For the unversed, the promotion hosted its first-ever event in Saudi Arabia with UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. Aliskerov in June. Moreover, the GEA head had played a key role in organizing the promotion’s biggest event ever- ‘Noche UFC’ back in September. “I am happy to confirm that Riyadh Season will be the sponsor for Noche UFC taking place on September 14, 2024,” Alalshikh had proudly announced before UFC 306.

Now, with the UFC returning to Riyadh for another monumental event on February 1st, all eyes will be on Adesanya’s comeback against Imavov, signaling a new chapter in the UFC’s growing presence in Saudi Arabia and the global fight scene.

Israel Adesanya is back to the drawing board

Israel Adesanya is set to compete in his first non-title fight since February 2019. The former two-time middleweight king will face Nassourdine Imavov, who currently boasts a 15-4 record and is coming off a string of impressive performances. The 35-year-old is looking to rebound from a tough losing streak while Imavov, who debuted in 2020, has been rapidly climbing the ranks. Imavov is on a three-fight winning streak and is eager to secure another victory on his path to a title shot.

Interestingly, before UFC President Dana White made the official announcement, another fighter who was also in the mix to face Adesanya had talked about the potential clash. Caio Borralho ranked #6, had been considered a potential opponent for Adesanya, alongside Imavov. Speaking to Inside Fighting, the Brazilian shared his thoughts on the situation, “I don’t care that much. I wanted the Israel Adesanya fight, and I think they presented two options for him—me and Imavov. And I think he chose Imavov. He posted a story on his Instagram studying Imavov’s tape. So, I think he already made his choice, and I’m just waiting.”

Borralho’s prediction turned out to be spot on as the UFC officially announced the matchup between Adesanya and Imavov for UFC Riyadh in February 2025. As Izzy seeks redemption after a tough period, fans are left wondering: can ‘The Last Stylebender’ reclaim his form and prove he’s still the top middleweight in the world? Tell us in the comment section below!