UFC announces duel between "sons of Poatan" and return of Khabib's cousin; check it out.

Ankalaev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

The world's largest MMA organization brought very interesting news to sports fans on Monday morning (1). In a post on social media, the Ultimate announced two breathtaking duels at UFC Abu Dhabi , scheduled for July 25. In the main event, Magomed Ankalaev returns to the octagon after the tough defeat to Alex Poatan and faces another former opponent of the Brazilian: Khalil Rountree Jr, in a fight valid for the light heavyweight category (up to 93 kg).

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While the Russian experienced the bitterness of a knockout loss for the first time in his rematch with the Brazilian, the American is also not having the best moment in his career. He last fought in October of last year, when he engaged in a war with Jiri Prochazka and ended up brutally knocked out in the third round.

HEADLINERS ARE SET 👊 @AnkalaevM vs Khalil Rountree Jr @UNmgdv vs David Martinez #UFCAbuDhabi LIVE JULY 25 on @ParamountPlus!

[ @VisitAbuDhabi | #InAbuDhabi | #VisitAbuDhabi ] pic.twitter.com/bwT2y3PqRv

— UFC (@ufc) June 1, 2026

The duel took on greater significance with the Brazilian's move up to heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg) and the serious injury suffered by Carlos Ulberg . Ranked first and fifth in the category, the winner should become the main contender for the number one contender spot. Furthermore, neither of them has had the opportunity to face the new champion.

In addition to Poatan's "children," Khabib's cousin also returns.

Umar promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

However, besides the main event, another announcement also caught the attention of fans, but perhaps not for the best reasons. Umar Nurmagomedov, ranked second in the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg) and coming off victories against Mario Bautista and Deiveson Figueiredo , will face David Martinez , ranked ninth. Undefeated in the UFC, the Mexican is on a three-fight winning streak and could jump the queue in the title race with another win.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.