Anmol
MMA fans were quite excited when the UFC Abu Dhabi card was announced on August 3. This was mostly because two legendary fighters, Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson, were on the event.
With these additions, this card—which already features a high-profile match between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov—promises even more exciting action.
Nick Diaz’s Return
One of the most noteworthy things about the event was Nick Diaz’s comeback to the octagon.
Former welterweight championship candidate Diaz hasn’t competed in a fight for almost three years; his most recent fight was a lackluster showing in 2021 against Robbie Lawler.
Regarding his present form, Diaz is still regarded as a revered character in the mixed martial arts community because of his striking ability, toughness, and unwavering fighting spirit.
Highs and lows have been a part of Diaz’s career. His most recent triumph came in a 2011 bout against B.J. Penn, where his unrelenting pace and cardio were on full display.
But since then, he has lost a number of fights to elite opponents like Anderson Silva, Carlos Condit, and Georges St-Pierre. Silva’s failed drug test resulted in the bout being ruled a no contest.
Despite being forty years old, Diaz is still training hard and remains close with his brother Nate Diaz as well as former teammates Jake Shields and Gilbert Melendez, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport.
Vicente Luque, his opponent, poses a serious threat. Luque, who is renowned for his forceful striking and propensity to finish fights, is trying to get back on track following a March knockout loss to Joaquin Buckley.
His previous form, when he was in contention for the title, was drastically different from this defeat, which was his third loss in four fights.
Luque’s promise was demonstrated by his notable victories over former UFC champion Tyron Woodley and Randy Brown; a victory over Diaz might rekindle his career.
Tony Ferguson’s Move to Welterweight
The transition of Tony Ferguson to the welterweight class is another important plot point. Ferguson, a former interim lightweight champion who has lost his last seven fights, is going through one of his hardest periods to date.
This jump to 170 pounds may be a calculated attempt to spark his career, particularly in light of the fact that he will be facing Michael Chiesa, another fighter hoping to end a losing run.
Robbie Lawler checking on Nick Diaz after their rematch is a special moment 👏 (via @ufc) pic.twitter.com/1HDBnBNNe0
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) October 5, 2021
Ferguson has had a turbulent yet remarkable career. Ferguson, who is renowned for his unconventional fighting style, toughness, and perseverance, formerly had a 12-fight winning streak that put him in the top half of the lightweight class.
But his recent results have made some wonder about his long-term prospects in the game. UFC President Dana White even hinted that this could be Ferguson’s final fight, adding an extra layer of intrigue and pressure to his bout against Chiesa.
Submission expert Chiesa hasn’t competed since July 2023, when he was defeated by Kevin Holland.
His career has reached a crossroads as a result of this defeat, which was his third straight loss. This fight is essential to Ferguson and Chiesa’s individual UFC careers since they both desperately need to win.
Main Event: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov
The main event of the UFC Abu Dhabi show is a bantamweight bout between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov, which might have major title ramifications.
The victor of this battle will get a shot at the bantamweight title, as announced by Dana White, raising the stakes in an already exciting bout.
August 3rd, it's going down!
— UFC (@ufc) May 29, 2024
See you all #InAbuDhabi 😤@VisitAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | #UFCAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/wD4L89HllT
Sandhagen, who is renowned for his dynamic hitting and adaptability, takes on Nurmagomedov, who is descended from his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov, a well-known fighter.
Other Notable Bouts
In addition to these headline bouts, the card includes several other intriguing matchups:
- Chito Vera vs. Deiveson Figueiredo: Vera, a rising star in the bantamweight division, faces former flyweight champion Figueiredo, who is making his move up to bantamweight.
- Mackenzie Dern vs. Loopy Godinez: Dern, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ace, continues her ascent in the strawweight division against the tough and versatile Godinez.
Final Thought
Nick Diaz’s comeback and Tony Ferguson’s transition to welterweight make the UFC Abu Dhabi card on August 3rd an unforgettable occasion.
These fights guarantee that spectators will be treated to a night of top-notch mixed martial arts action, along with the high-stakes main event and other thrilling matches.
Given his illustrious history and ongoing popularity, Diaz’s comeback particularly grabs attention, while Ferguson’s attempt to snap his losing streak adds a degree of drama and hope for redemption.
All things considered, this card looks like it will deliver on several fronts, pleasing both die-hard fans and casual watchers.
This Article was written by Anmol author @09sports.com
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