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Shara Magomedov fought Michael Page at UFC Saudi Arabia with ‘nightmarish health condition’ in first statement
Shara Magomedov suffered his first career loss at UFC Saudi Arabia to Michael Page, but also says he was not at the peak of health.
“Bullet” dropped a unanimous decision to Page — who moved up from welterweight to take the contest — losing a pair of 30-27’s and a 29-28 on the judges’ scorecards. The speed, craftiness, and elusive movement seemed to throw Magomedov off throughout the fight, but following the loss, the 30-year-old released his first statement which he states he entered the fight with a bad health issue.
“The pirate sails into the harbor, but I will return,” Magomedov said.
“I knew all the risks when stepping in with such a nightmarish health condition and preparation. I felt that despite everything, I could still win—but it didn’t work out, and that’s it.
“Thank you to the UFC organization for this opportunity and to everyone involved. I wanted to put on a show and meet expectations without canceling the fight. Thank you to everyone who stands by me in any situation! Alhamdulillah.”
Magomedov didn’t reveal any specifics in regards to his health prior to the fight. Prior to the loss to Page, Magomedov earned decision wins over Michal Oleksiejczuk and Bruno Silva, along with stoppage wins over Antonio Trocoli, and in one of 2024’s best knockouts, Arman Petrosyan at UFC 308 in October.
Shara Magomedov bravely fought Michael Page at UFC Saudi Arabia despite battling a nightmarish health condition.
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#Shara #Magomedov #fought #Michael #Page #UFC #Saudi #Arabia #nightmarish #health #condition #statementJhon Duran plotting 600-MILE commute to avoid living in Saudi Arabia hours after signing £320k a week Al-Nassr contract
JHON DURAN is planning a 600-mile commute from Bahrain to his new Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.
The Colombia striker completed a £70million move from Aston Villa at the end of last week — but has told Al-Nassr he wants to live in Bahrain.
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Jhon Duran is planning a 600-mile commute to work from Bahrain to Saudi ArabiaCredit: Reuters 
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The striker has made the switch to Al-Nassr after spending two years at Villa ParkCredit: Reuters 
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The Colombia striker completed a £70million move from Aston Villa this weekCredit: Reuters 
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Duran was unveiled and handed the No 9 shirt at Al-NassrCredit: Instagram / alnassr Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson were both based in Bahrain rather than Saudi when with Al-Ettifaq, who parted ways with Gerrard last week.
Al-Ettifaq’s Dammam training ground is an hour’s drive from Bahrain — but Al-Nassr is on the outskirts of Riyadh and more than 300 miles away.
A scheduled flight from Bahrain International Airport to the capital Riyadh takes one hour and 20 minutes, so Duran will have to get used to a gruelling travel schedule.
The 21-year-old’s decision has been partly influenced by confusion over whether he would be permitted to live with his girlfriend in Saudi Arabia.
Under Islamic law co-habitation by unmarried couples is discouraged — and private landlords often demand proof of marriage before agreeing to rent out property.
In practice, the law is not always enforced, however.
Cristiano Ronaldo lives with girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez in a luxury compound in Saudi’s capital.
But Duran will be more than able to afford the crazy commute.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
The striker, who only signed a new contract with Villa last October, is set to earn a whopping TAX-FREE yearly salary of £16.7million.
That equates to a staggering £1.4m per month, £321,000 per week, £46,000 per day and £1900 an hour.
Aston Villa hothead Jhon Duran rages as he’s subbed moments after scoring and kicks back of team-mate’s chairThe now former Villa striker now also earns £31 a minute and 52 pence per second.
He has been given the No 9 shirt at Al-Nassr, which is the same number he wore for Villa.
Duran joined Villa from MLS side Chicago Fire in January 2023 for a fee of £18m.
In just October 2024, Duran signed a new deal with Villa, which was set to keep him at the club until 2030.
He leaves Villa Park having scored 20 goals in 78 appearances for Unai Emery‘s side.
Villa confirmed Duran’s departure in a brief statement thanking him for his efforts during his time in the Midlands.
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It read: “Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Durán has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee.
“The striker moves to Saudi Arabia having scored 12 goals for Villa this term, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
“Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”
His exit might free up funds for Villa to sign Marcus Rashford permanently in the near future.
The Man Utd academy graduate, who has been exiled by Ruben Amorim, is reportedly on the brink of signing a six-month loan with Emery’s side.
Duran could make his Al-Nassr debut next Friday when they welcome Al Feiha to Al-Awwal Park.
His move came as a surprise after establishing himself as the most lethal sub in the Prem this season.
The Colombian has developed a reputation for being a game-changer for Unai Emery’s men.
Since his debut in January 2023, Duran scored more goals as a substitute than any other Premier League player.
Despite his impressive form, he has found first-team starts hard to come by throughout the campaign, with Emery often preferring Ollie Watkins, who Arsenal saw a bid rejected for this week, as the lone striker in his side.
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In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that footballer Jhon Duran is reportedly plotting a 600-mile commute to avoid living in Saudi Arabia just hours after signing a lucrative £320k a week contract with Al-Nassr.The Colombian striker, known for his goal-scoring prowess, is said to be less than thrilled about the prospect of relocating to the Middle Eastern country and is exploring extreme measures to avoid living there.
Sources close to Duran have suggested that he is considering commuting from a nearby country, possibly Dubai, on a regular basis in order to fulfill his contractual obligations with Al-Nassr while maintaining a lifestyle more to his liking.
While this news may come as a shock to fans and club officials alike, it serves as a reminder of the lengths some athletes are willing to go to in order to maintain their preferred living arrangements. Only time will tell if Duran’s unconventional plan will come to fruition, but one thing is for certain – this is a story that will continue to captivate and intrigue football fans around the world.
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Dana White reacts to Shara Magomedov’s first loss at UFC Saudi Arabia
Shara Magomedov lost his undefeated record Saturday at UFC Fight Night 250.
The middleweight sensation came up short in a unanimous decision against Michael Page in the co-main event of the Saudi Arabia card. Although many expected him to win, given he was the favorite and younger fighter, UFC CEO Dana White said he thought Magomedov (15-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) had a tough fight ahead.
“You have to be aggressive with Page, but it’s a weird situation to be in because he’s a counter-striker and he sort of sits back and waits for you,” White said. “You’re dammed if you do, damned if you don’t.”
When asked if Magomedov lost his buzz by losing his undefeated record against Page (23-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC), White was supportive. He sees MVP as a tough fight for anyone in the sport and said he thinks Magomedov’s stock remains strong.
“I think styles make fights, and MVP is a very tough style to fight,” White said. “He lays back and counter punches. If you go in guns a’blazing, he’s a real good counter puncher. And if you have a hard time getting off, there’s a lot of standing around and staring at each other.
“(Page is) just a hard style to fight. I don’t think this diminishes (Magomedov) in any way, and I don’t think it had anything to do with him freezing. Let’s not forget: The guy has one eye. That doesn’t help.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 250.
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Dana White Reacts to Shara Magomedov’s First Loss at UFC Saudi ArabiaUFC President Dana White is known for his candid reactions to fighters’ performances, and Shara Magomedov’s first loss at UFC Saudi Arabia was no exception. Magomedov, who had been undefeated in his MMA career until that point, suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of his opponent in a highly anticipated bout.
White, known for his no-nonsense approach, didn’t mince words when asked about Magomedov’s loss. “It’s always tough to see a fighter experience their first defeat, especially when they’ve been on such a dominant streak,” White said. “But that’s the nature of the sport – anything can happen on any given night. It’s how a fighter bounces back from a loss that truly defines their character.”
White praised Magomedov for his resilience and sportsmanship in the face of defeat, noting that the fighter had taken the loss in stride and vowed to come back stronger in his next fight. “Shara is a talented athlete with a bright future ahead of him,” White said. “I have no doubt that he will learn from this experience and use it to fuel his fire for future successes in the octagon.”
As for Magomedov’s future in the UFC, White remained optimistic about his prospects. “Shara is a young fighter with a lot of potential,” White said. “I have no doubt that he will bounce back from this setback and continue to make waves in the UFC. It’s all part of the journey for any fighter, and I have no doubt that Shara will rise to the occasion.”
Overall, White’s reaction to Magomedov’s first loss at UFC Saudi Arabia was one of encouragement and support, highlighting the resilience and determination that are essential qualities for success in the world of mixed martial arts. Fans can expect to see Magomedov back in the octagon before long, ready to prove himself once again on the biggest stage in the sport.
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Dana White, Shara Magomedov, UFC Saudi Arabia, Dana White reaction, Shara Magomedov first loss, UFC news, MMA updates, UFC president, UFC fight analysis, UFC event recap
#Dana #White #reacts #Shara #Magomedovs #loss #UFC #Saudi #ArabiaHow Donald Trump Should Deal With Saudi Arabia | Opinion
On Jan. 23, his second full day in office after being sworn in as the 47th president, Donald Trump picked up the phone and dialed his first foreign leader. The honor didn’t go to the leader of a formal U.S. treaty ally like Canada or the United Kingdom, but rather to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). This wasn’t a surprise given the relationship the two men conjured up. In his first term, Trump jetted to Saudi Arabia for his first overseas trip. The visit was a precursor to what would turn out to be a blossoming U.S.-Saudi relationship over the next four years. Trump showered the Saudis with billions of dollars in military equipment; continued to assist the Saudi-led military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen; joined Riyadh’s economic embargo against Qatar; and defended MBS when the U.S. intelligence community assessed that he was responsible for the October 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Trump and MBS are prepared to pick up where they left off. The two view each other as force multipliers for their respective agendas. Trump looks at the Saudi crown prince and sees a high net-worth individual who could throw a gargantuan amount of petrodollars into the American economy. In Trump, MBS spots a transactional businessman who couldn’t care less about high-browed concepts like the rules-based international order.
Both men are also nationalists to the core. MBS can relate to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” mantra because he is following the same playbook in the kingdom. MBS wants to make his country stronger and wealthier than ever before, best exemplified by his Vision 2030 economic campaign to diversify Saudi Arabia from an oil-pumping machine into a center of banking, finance, and sports.
President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman take part in a bilateral meeting at a hotel in Riyadh on May 20, 2017.
MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images
Trump would be wise to remember this as he interacts with MBS. Saudi officials may highlight their strategic relationship with Washington as mutually-beneficial, but the kingdom won’t be doing the United States any favors. And the concessions the Saudis do make will almost certainly be paired with demands.
Trump is likely pleased with Riyadh’s stated commitment to invest $600 billion into the U.S. economy over the next four years. But what seems like a benevolent act smells a lot like a transparent bribe to purchase more U.S. defense investment. For nearly two years, Riyadh has been negotiating with U.S. officials on an upgrade to the U.S.-Saudi defense relationship. The original concept was to provide the kingdom with a U.S. security guarantee in the form of a treaty, largely as a reward for the Saudis normalizing diplomatic relations with Israel. While the war in Gaza has diminished the prospects of the Saudis normalizing ties with Israel anytime soon, they are still intent on bringing the United States closer militarily.
Saudi Arabia has good reason to keep Washington in its camp. Although Iran is unmistakably weaker today courtesy of Israel’s military operations against Hamas and Hezbollah as well as Bashar al-Assad‘s fall, the Saudis can’t discount the Iranians as powerless. Iran retains proxies in Yemen and Iraq, maintains a formidable missile capability, and is improving upon a nuclear program that MBS’ late uncle, King Abdullah, wanted the United States to destroy nearly two decades ago. Despite a years-long ceasefire with the Houthis, the Yemeni militia group isn’t going to disappear and might resume fighting against the Saudi-backed Yemeni government if peace talks remain stalled. The United States is the big, warm security blanket the Saudis would like to use during chilly times.
Yet what’s good for the Saudis isn’t necessarily good for the Americans. What exactly would Washington get for offering Riyadh a security guarantee? This is precisely the question Trump, who believes the American people have been taken advantage of by other countries for decades, should be asking.
Once he does, one hopes Trump starts to recognize the security arrangement MBS desires as a very bad deal—not because Saudi Arabia should be shunned but rather because Saudi Arabia needs the United States a lot more than the United States needs Saudi Arabia. The U.S. foreign policy intelligentsia will argue the opposite, that as a major swing producer of crude oil, Washington can’t afford to walk away and leave the Arabian Peninsula to China. But those claims would be misplaced, overlooking the fact that China’s Xi Jinping appears more interested in staying on good terms with everybody in the Middle East instead of doubling down on a single partnership that could upset his capacity to be a neutral broker.
And how valuable is Saudi Arabia to the United States, really? Surely it holds some value—the kingdom holds more than 21 percent of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries’ (OPEC) proven oil reserves. But despite MBS’ attempts to transform the Saudi economy, oil still accounts for 63 percent of his country’s revenue. Trump doesn’t have to worry about Riyadh throttling down production over a long period of time because the Saudis need the money.
Donald Trump gave his Saudi pal a bit of a pass during his first term. He shouldn’t make the same mistake in his second.
Daniel R. DePetris is a fellow at Defense Priorities and a syndicated foreign affairs columnist at the Chicago Tribune.
The views expressed in this article are the writer’s own.
In light of recent events, it is clear that the relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia is complex and fraught with tensions. The murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi has brought to light the human rights abuses and lack of accountability within the Saudi government, leading many to question the United States’ close ties with the kingdom.As President Donald Trump navigates this delicate situation, it is imperative that he takes a firm stance on holding Saudi Arabia accountable for its actions. While Saudi Arabia remains an important ally in the Middle East, the United States cannot turn a blind eye to the atrocities committed by the Saudi government.
First and foremost, President Trump must demand transparency and accountability from Saudi Arabia regarding the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. The Saudi government must be held responsible for its actions, and those involved in the murder must be brought to justice. Additionally, the United States should reconsider its military support for Saudi Arabia, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Furthermore, President Trump should use this opportunity to push for reforms within the Saudi government. The United States can leverage its relationship with Saudi Arabia to advocate for greater respect for human rights and democratic principles. This includes pushing for greater freedom of speech and press within the kingdom.
Ultimately, President Trump must strike a delicate balance between upholding the United States’ strategic interests in the region and promoting human rights and accountability in Saudi Arabia. By taking a firm stance on these issues, President Trump can demonstrate that the United States stands for justice and democracy, even when it comes to its allies.
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Saudi Arabia plans to invest $600 billion in U.S. over next 4 years, crown prince says in call with Trump
Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Saudi Arabia‘s crown prince said Thursday the kingdom wants to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years, comments that came after President Trump put a price tag on returning to the kingdom as his first foreign trip.
Mr. Trump’s 2017 trip to Saudi Arabia upended a tradition of U.S. presidents first heading to the United Kingdom as their first trip abroad. It also underscored his administration’s close ties to the rulers of the oil-rich Gulf states as his eponymous real estate company has pursued deals across the region as well.
The comments from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reported early Thursday by the state-run Saudi Press Agency, came in a phone call with Mr. Trump.
Evan Vucci / AP
“The crown prince affirmed the kingdom’s intention to broaden its investments and trade with the United States over the next four years, in the amount of $600 billion, and potentially beyond that,” the report said.
The readout didn’t elaborate on where those investments and trade could be placed. The U.S. in recent years has increasingly pulled away from relying on Saudi oil exports, which were the bedrock of their relationship for decades. Saudi sovereign wealth funds have taken large stakes in American businesses while also looking at sports, as well.
Saudi Arabia does, however, rely predominantly on U.S.-made weapons and defense systems, which could be a part of the investment.
There was no immediate readout from the White House on the call. It also wasn’t immediately clear if Mr. Trump’s call with the crown prince was his first with a foreign leader since re-entering the White House. However, it was the first such call to be reported.
The crown prince, the de facto ruler of the oil-rich kingdom, also spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio early Thursday.
On Monday after his inauguration, Mr. Trump talked about possibly heading to the kingdom again as his first foreign trip, as he did in 2017.
“The first foreign trip typically has been with the U.K. but … I did it with Saudi Arabia last time because they agreed to buy $450 billion worth of our products,” Mr. Trump told journalists in the Oval Office. “If Saudi Arabia wanted to buy another $450 billion or $500 – we’ll up it for all the inflation – I think I’d probably go.”
The 2017 visit to the kingdom set in motion a yearslong boycott of Qatar by four Arab nations, including the kingdom.
Mr. Trump maintained close relations with Saudi Arabia, even after Prince Mohammed was implicated in the 2018 killing and dismemberment of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul. The kingdom also had been talking for years with the Biden administration about a wider deal to recognize Israel in exchange for U.S. defense protections and other support.
The $600 billion pledge, which dwarves the gross domestic product of many nations, also comes as the kingdom faces budgetary pressures of its own. Global oil prices remain depressed years after the height of the coronavirus pandemic, affecting the kingdom’s revenues.
Meanwhile, Prince Mohammed also wants to continue his $500 billion project at NEOM, a new city in Saudi Arabia’s western desert on the Red Sea. It also will need to build tens of billions of dollars’ worth of new stadiums and infrastructure ahead of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
In a recent call with President Trump, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans to invest a whopping $600 billion in the United States over the next four years. This major investment is expected to cover a wide range of sectors, including technology, infrastructure, and energy. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development! #SaudiInvestment #EconomicBoost #PartnershipGoals
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Saudi Arabia surpasses Egypt as dominant Arab leader under MBS’s vision
On January 12, two seemingly unrelated events took place in Saudi Arabia. In the first, Real Madrid faced Barcelona in the final of the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah. Thousands of Saudis filled the stands to witness a thrilling 5-2 victory for Barcelona. The game served as a preview of the FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia in 2034.
On the same day, in Riyadh, the foreign ministers of the United States, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Turkey, along with the secretary general of the Arab League and representatives from the European Union and 11 Arab states, convened to discuss developments in Syria. A few days later, the Saudi foreign minister visited Syria.
This rapid response highlights the immense importance Saudi Arabia places on developments in Syria for the future of the region, particularly in light of the active involvement of Turkey and Qatar. It also reflects Saudi Arabia’s readiness to offer humanitarian and economic assistance if the new Syrian regime adopts a balanced policy – one that ensures the country’s territorial integrity, protects ethnic and religious minorities, and distances Iran’s proxies.
The two events mentioned above clearly demonstrate the prominent role Saudi Arabia has assumed under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), a role also evident during the Israel-Gaza War. For instance, on November 11–12, 2023, following a summit of African states, Saudi Arabia hosted a summit bringing together the Arab and Muslim worlds to discuss the wars in Gaza and Lebanon.
This summit convened both the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation – marking the first time in history that these two organizations met simultaneously in the same location. This move by the Saudis served as a clear statement of their intent and their leadership role in the Arab, Islamic, and African spheres.
Steve Witkoff and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (Illustrative) (credit: Canva, Kirsty Wigglesworth/Pool via REUTERS, REUTERS/OCTAVIO JONES, ruskpp/Shutterstock) However, it appears that the crown prince’s ambitions are not confined to the region but are also global, relating to both the diplomatic and economic spheres, as well as to softer areas such as sports and media.
DIPLOMATICALLY, SAUDI Arabia has established, in partnership with the European Union, the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, an international coalition with some 90 member states. The Saudi declaration that normalization with Israel will not be pursued without a Palestinian state – a significant change of position by the Saudis in the wake of the war – indicates their desire to lead an international process to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In the economic sphere, Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Middle East. Its Vision 2030 development plan was designed to reduce the country’s dependence on oil incomes by developing new areas of economic activity. The Saudis want to develop other economic areas apart from oil, gas, and petrochemicals, and become a country that attracts tens of millions of tourists every year, with sports – and especially football – an important tool for advancing this policy.
Saudi Arabia has three key advantages in this regard. First, it holds the largest oil reserves in the world, producing approximately three million barrels a day, with the capacity to quickly increase production. In the event of a disruption to global oil supply, Saudi Arabia, alongside the United Arab Emirates, could produce an additional four million barrels daily, rapidly compensating for the shortfall.
Equally important, Saudi Arabia can do so at a relatively low cost, as its cost of producing a barrel of oil is the lowest in the world at just $10. The second advantage is its strategic location, allowing it to serve as a key transport hub between India and Europe, with Israel potentially playing an important role in facilitating this connection.
Saudi Arabia also serves as an important economic anchor for Egypt and Jordan. The tens of billions of dollars these countries have received over the last decade have played a crucial role in maintaining the stability of their regimes. One notable outcome of this economic aid was Egypt’s return of the Sanafir and Tiran islands to Saudi Arabia in 2017.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s economic leverage is expected to bolster its efforts to gain influence in Syria and Lebanon, particularly after the election of a new president in Lebanon who is not aligned with Hezbollah. It is no surprise that the Saudi foreign minister was quick to visit Lebanon after Joseph Aoun’s election on January 9.
In addition, Saudi Arabia plays an important role in terms of media in the Arab world, with its Al Arabiya network being no less popular than the Qatari Al Jazeera.
LAST BUT not least, Saudi Arabi enjoys a unique status in Islam due to the location within its borders of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, to which more than two million Muslims make the Hajj pilgrimage each year.
Despite its relative military weakness – which it is supposed to overcome thanks to an American air defense umbrella – Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic, economic, religious, and media capabilities, alongside the charismatic leadership of MBS, position it as the natural leader of the Arab world.
These capabilities now face a new American president who seeks to economically pressure Iran while keeping oil prices low. If Trump aims to achieve his vision of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he will need full cooperation from Saudi Arabia. The first step in any process will, of course, be an agreement for the complete release of hostages and the end of the war, which would establish a post-conflict framework for governance in Gaza that is acceptable to both the United States and the Arab world, particularly Saudi Arabia.
For years, Egypt has been seen as the leader of the Arab world, or at least considered the “key player,” a term coined by Egyptian journalist Muhammad Husayn Haykal. While Egypt remains an important regional actor, particularly in relation to Gaza and Arab-Israeli relations, its demographic and economic challenges have weakened its position, creating a vacuum that has been filled by an increasingly assertive Saudi crown prince.
Prof. Elie Podeh teaches in the Department of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and is a board member of Mitvim – The Israeli Institute for Regional Foreign Policies. Prof. Onn Winckler is head of the Department of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the University of Haifa.
Saudi Arabia has officially surpassed Egypt as the dominant Arab leader under the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). With bold reforms and ambitious initiatives, MBS has propelled Saudi Arabia to the forefront of the region, solidifying its position as a major player in the Arab world.From economic diversification to social liberalization, MBS has implemented a wide range of reforms aimed at modernizing Saudi Arabia and boosting its global influence. The Vision 2030 plan, spearheaded by MBS, has set the kingdom on a path towards sustainable development and economic growth, while also promoting a more open and tolerant society.
With a bold foreign policy agenda, including initiatives such as the Arab NATO and the Red Sea Project, Saudi Arabia is increasingly asserting its leadership in the region. The kingdom’s efforts to mediate conflicts and promote stability have also been widely recognized, further enhancing its standing as a key player in regional politics.
As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its influence and assert its leadership in the Arab world, it is clear that under MBS’s vision, the kingdom is well on its way to becoming the dominant Arab leader in the region.
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UFC Saudi Arabia Betting Predictions
The UFC’s first Middle Eastern card of 2025 is set to be headlined by a pivotal matchup in the middleweight division when New Zealand’s own Israel Adesanya battles up-and-coming French contender Nassourdine Imavov in the UFC Saudi Arabia main event.
Setting the table for this high-stakes matchup is another 185-lb scrap that promises to be an entertaining one, as Shara Magomedov takes on previous Bellator megastar Michael Page in the UFC Saudi Arabia co-main event.
Having once held the middleweight championship, and defended it five times, Adesanya is easily one of the greatest fighters the weight class has ever seen.
As the UFC makes its highly-anticipated debut in Saudi Arabia, fight fans are gearing up for an action-packed night of battles inside the Octagon. With so many intriguing matchups on the card, here are some betting predictions to consider for the event:1. Main Event: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Justin Gaethje
This lightweight title fight is shaping up to be a clash of styles, with Nurmagomedov’s grappling prowess going up against Gaethje’s striking power. While Gaethje has the ability to knock out anyone in the division, Nurmagomedov’s relentless pressure and ground game make him the favorite to retain his title. Betting prediction: Nurmagomedov by submission.2. Co-Main Event: Amanda Nunes vs. Valentina Shevchenko
In a highly-anticipated rematch, Nunes and Shevchenko will once again square off for the women’s bantamweight title. Nunes has shown her dominance in recent fights, but Shevchenko’s technical striking and solid takedown defense make her a tough challenge. Betting prediction: Nunes by decision.3. Heavyweight Bout: Francis Ngannou vs. Ciryl Gane
Two of the UFC’s most exciting heavyweights will go head-to-head in this matchup. Ngannou’s knockout power is always a threat, but Gane’s technical striking and strong grappling could give him the edge. Betting prediction: Gane by TKO.4. Middleweight Bout: Israel Adesanya vs. Robert Whittaker
In a rematch of their highly-anticipated first fight, Adesanya and Whittaker will look to settle the score in the middleweight division. Adesanya’s striking and defensive skills make him a tough opponent, but Whittaker’s relentless pressure and improved wrestling could lead to an upset. Betting prediction: Whittaker by decision.Overall, the UFC Saudi Arabia card promises to deliver plenty of excitement and drama for fight fans. With these betting predictions in mind, be sure to place your wagers wisely and enjoy the action-packed night of fights.
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#UFC #Saudi #Arabia #Betting #PredictionsUFC Saudi Arabia Weigh-In Results For February 1 Card
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – JANUARY 31: Israel Adesanya of Nigeria poses on the scale during the UFC … [+]
Israel Adesanya had us a little scared for about an hour before the weigh-ins with a post questioning if he would miss weight. As it turns out, the former UFC middleweight champion was one of the first fighters on the February 1 card to step on the scales in Saudi Arabia.
Adesanya wasn’t just on weight—he would have been good even if Saturday’s main event was a title fight. Adesanya tipped the scales at 185, as did his opponent, Nassourdine Imavov. Thankfully, the main event is set.
If someone made us nervous, it was rising middleweight star and co-main event fighter Shara Magomedov. He was one of the last fighters to weigh in. He was one of the last fighters to get on the scale, but he made weight.
Magomedov’s opponent, Michael “Venom” Page, who normally fights at welterweight, made the 185-pound limit without a problem.
One fighter missed weight, Lucas Alexander. He missed by 2.5 psounds. Bogdan Grad will receive a percentage of his purse.
Here is a look at all of the results from the weigh-ins in Saudi Arabia.
MAIN CARD
- Main Event – Middleweight Bout: (No. 2) Israel Adesanya (185) vs. (No. 5) Nassourdine Imavov (185)
- Co-Main Event – Middleweight Bout: (No. 14) Shara Magomedov (185) vs. (No. 15 at WW) Michael “Venom” Page (185.5)
- Heavyweight Bout: (No. 4) Sergei Pavlovich (249) vs. (No. 9) Jairzinho Rozenstruik (252)
- Bantamweight Bout: Said Nurmagomedov (135.5) vs. Vinicius Oliveira (135)
- Lightweight Bout: Fares Ziam (156) vs. Mike Davis (155.5)
PRELIMS
- Featherweight Bout: Muhammad Naimov (145.5) vs. Kaan Ofli (145)
- Heavyweight Bout: (No. 14) Shamil Gaziev (260) vs. Thomas Petersen (263)
- Lightweight Bout: Terrance McKinney (156) vs. Damir Hadžović (155.5)
- Women’s Flyweight Bout: (No. 12) Jasmine Jasudavicius (125) vs. (No. 7 at WBW) Mayra Bueno Silva (126)
- Featherweight Bout: Bogdan Grad (145.5) vs. Lucas Alexander (148.5)
- Heavyweight Bout: Hamdy Abdelwahab (260) vs. Jamal Pogues (264)
This card is rare.
It’s a Fight Night event with nine ranked fighters in action. While there probably isn’t anyone on the card who is a win away from a title shot, there are a few who are close. In the past, the Saudis have pushed for cards that fall somewhere between a pay-per-view and a Fight Night outside of the Apex in Las Vegas.
If Imavov can knock off Adesanya in the main event, you’d have to think he’s next for a shot after Khamzat Chimaev fights the winner of Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland, which happens in March at UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia.
That situation makes Saturday huge for Imavov, as it may be difficult for him to re-climb the ladder if he fails.
Rozenstruik would probably leap to No. 7 from No. 9 if he beats Pavlovich. While Pavlovich is No. 4, Rozenstruik probably wouldn’t land in the Top 5 with a win because he’d leapfrog Curtis Blaydes and Jailton Almeida.
Rozenstruik already lost to Almeida via first-round submission in May 2023 and to Blaydes by unanimous decision in September 2021.
Something tells me the card is going to be memorable beyond the fighters who are involved. Be on the lookout for fight day coverage, including results, highlights, and reactions.
The UFC Saudi Arabia Weigh-In Results For February 1 Card are in and the fighters are ready to go. Here is a breakdown of the weigh-ins:– Main event fighters, Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker both hit their marks, coming in at 185 pounds for their middleweight championship bout.
– Co-main event fighters, Kamaru Usman and Leon Edwards also successfully made weight, with Usman weighing in at 170 pounds and Edwards at 169 pounds for their welterweight showdown.
– Other notable weigh-in results include Amanda Nunes at 145 pounds, Valentina Shevchenko at 125 pounds, and Francis Ngannou at 265 pounds.
Overall, all fighters successfully made weight and are ready to put on a show for the fans in Saudi Arabia on February 1. Stay tuned for more updates on the fight card and be sure to tune in for all the action.
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#UFC #Saudi #Arabia #WeighIn #Results #February #CardBogdan Grad vs. Lucas Alexander prediction, odds, pick for UFC Saudi Arabia
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UFC Saudi Arabia: Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov continues on the prelims with a fight in the featherweight division between Bogdan Grad and Lucas Alexander. Grad successfully secured his UFC contract with a split decision victory in his second appearance on the Contender Series his last time out meanwhile, Alexander will making his third appearance in the octagon after a 14-month layoff. With that said, check out our UFC odds series for our Grad-Alexander prediction and pick.
Bogdan Grad (14-2) was finally able to secure his UFC contract after a razor-close split-decision victory against Michael Aswell on the Contender Series. Now, Grad will look to do one better by securing his first win inside the UFC octagon when he takes on fellow featherweight Lucas Alexander this weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia.
Lucas Alexander (8-4) made a splash in the featherweight division when he defeated longtime veteran Steven Peterson in his second UFC fight. However, after getting knocked out against Jeka Saragih, he is now just 1-2 in his UFC career. He is coming off a 14-month layoff due to injury and will be looking to get back into the win column when he takes on promotional newcomer Bogdan Grad this weekend.
Here are the UFC Saudi Arabia Odds, courtesy of DraftKings.
UFC Saudi Arabia Odds: Bogdan Grad-Lucas Alexander Odds
Bogdan Grad: -102
Lucas Alexander: -112
Over 2.5 rounds: -105
Under 2.5 rounds: -125
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Why Bogdan Grad Will Win
- Last Fight: (W) Michael Aswell – DEC
- Last 5: 4-1
- Finishes: 11 (8 KO/TKO/3 SUB)
Bogdan Grad is poised to make a spectacular UFC debut this weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia, where he’s set to face Lucas Alexander in a featherweight clash. Grad, known as “The Unleashed,” brings an impressive 14-2 record to the Octagon, with a remarkable finishing rate that should give Alexander cause for concern. Grad’s record includes eight wins by knockout and three by submission, demonstrating his well-rounded skill set and ability to end fights decisively. His propensity for first-round finishes, with eight to his credit, showcases his explosive power and quick-strike capabilities.
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Grad’s striking accuracy of 48.17% in his last Contender Series appearance indicates his precision in landing significant strikes. This accuracy, combined with his knockout power, could prove troublesome for Alexander, who has shown vulnerability to strikes in his recent UFC outings, including a KO/TKO loss to Jeka Saragih. Furthermore, Grad’s rigorous training regimen, which includes two intense daily sessions, demonstrates his dedication to the sport and physical preparedness.1 While Alexander has more UFC experience, Grad’s momentum, finishing ability, and hunger to make a statement in his debut give him a significant edge in this matchup. Expect Grad to push the pace early and look for a highlight-reel finish to announce his arrival in the UFC’s featherweight division.
Why Lucas Alexander Will Win
- Last Fight: (L) Jeka Saragih – KO R1
- Last 5: 3-2
- Finishes: 3 (3 KO/TKO)
Lucas Alexander is primed to secure a victory over UFC newcomer Bogdan Grad this weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia, leveraging his Octagon experience and striking prowess. Alexander, known for his striking-oriented fighting style, has already faced high-level competition in the UFC, which will prove invaluable against the debuting Grad. With 97 significant strikes landed out of 176 attempted in his UFC career, Alexander’s striking accuracy and volume could overwhelm Grad, who has yet to experience the intensity of UFC-level competition.
Alexander’s professional record of 8-4, including 3 wins by knockout, demonstrates his ability to finish fights and adapt to different opponents. His experience in high-pressure UFC environments will be a significant advantage over Grad, who may face octagon jitters in his debut. Alexander’s journey from a skinny kid seeking confidence to a UFC fighter realizing his dream3 showcases the mental fortitude that could be the deciding factor in this matchup. Expect Alexander to utilize his UFC-tested skills and experience to outwork Grad and secure a decisive victory.
Final Bogdan Grad-Lucas Alexander Prediction & Pick
This featherweight matchup has the makings of being an absolute barnburner. Grad is a fighter that puts his foot on the gas from start to finish and he can expect to go to war with Alexander who thrives in a technical striking battle. Both Grad and Alexander have had their fair share of hiccups in their fighting careers but they will be looking to turn things around with a statement victory this weekend in Saudi Arabia.
Ultimately, Alexander will certainly be the sharper and more technical striker in this matchup but the way that he struggles with grappling and a fight that ends up being a brawl Grad has more ways to get the job done and be victorious in his UFC debut as he finishes Alexander making a statement in his UFC debut.
Final Bogdan Grad-Lucas Alexander Prediction & Pick: Bogdan Grad (-102), Under 2.5 Rounds (-125)
The content of this article is for entertainment and educational purposes only, and ClutchPoints makes no warranty to the accuracy of the information given or outcome of any sporting event. Gambling is not offered on this website, and all betting content is intended for audiences ages 21+. All picks and predictions are based on each individual writer’s opinion, and don’t express that of ClutchPoints. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
The highly anticipated matchup between Bogdan Grad and Lucas Alexander is set to take place at UFC Saudi Arabia, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Both fighters have proven themselves to be formidable opponents in the octagon, making this bout a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.In terms of predictions, this fight is shaping up to be a close one. Bogdan Grad is known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, while Lucas Alexander is a skilled grappler with a solid ground game. It’s likely that this bout will be a battle of styles, with Grad looking to keep the fight standing and Alexander aiming to take it to the ground.
As for the odds, it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top. Both fighters are evenly matched, making this a difficult fight to predict. However, if forced to choose a winner, many experts are leaning towards Bogdan Grad due to his striking prowess and ability to finish fights.
In the end, this fight is sure to be an exciting showdown between two talented fighters. Make sure to tune in to UFC Saudi Arabia to see who will emerge victorious in the Bogdan Grad vs. Lucas Alexander matchup.
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#Bogdan #Grad #Lucas #Alexander #prediction #odds #pick #UFC #Saudi #ArabiaJasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva prediction, odds, pick for UFC Saudi Arabia
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We’re back with another betting prediction and pick for tUFC Saudi Arabia as we look ahead to this upcoming showdown in the Women’s Flyweight (125) Division. No. 12 Jasmine Jasudavicius of Canada will face No. 7 Mayra Bueno Silva of Brazil as both fighters work towards earning a title shot. Check the UFC odds series for our Jasudavicius-Silva prediction and pick.
Jasmine Jasudavicius (12-3) has gone an impressive 6-2 under the UFC banner. She’s notched three-straight wins over Priscila Cachoeira, Fatima Kline, and Ariane Lipski. She also has two submission wins via d’arce choke during that stretch, so she’ll look for a similar result as the moderate betting favorite. She stands 5-foot-7 with a 68-inch reach.
Mayra Bueno Silva (10-4-1) has gone 5-4-1-1 during her time with the UFC. She’s gone 0-2-1 during her last three appearances and notably fought for the Bantamweight championship against Raquel Pennington. Most recently dropping her last fight, she’ll look to claw her way back to title contention with an upset win. She stands 5-foot-6 with a 66.5-inch reach.
Here are the UFC Saudi Arabia Odds, courtesy of DraftKings.
UFC Saudi Arabia Odds: Jasmine Jasudavicius-Mayra Bueno Silva Odds
Jasmine Jasudavicius: -230
Mayra Bueno Silva: +190
Over 2.5 rounds: -330
Under 2.5 rounds: +240
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Why Jasmine Jasudavicius Will Win
- Last Fight: (W) Ariane Lipski da Silva – SUB (d’arce choke, R3)
- Last 5: 4-1
- Finishes: 2 KO/TKO, 3 SUB
Jasmine Jasudavicius has been on a tear since suffering her last UFC loss in September 2023. She’s won three-straight fights while finding two d’arce finishes, earning a Performance of the Night bonus in both of those efforts. She’s a classically-trained jiu jitsu practitioner and is very hard to stop on the ground, never being submitted in her professional career. Her boxing has also greatly improved over the last few fights as she uses it to set up her takedowns along the fence. Look for her to lean more on her striking in this one against a tough grappler like Silva.
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Jasmine Jasudavicius also fights with an extremely high IQ and doesn’t tend to put herself in many dangerous positions. She’s very patient in finding her offense and likes to remain steady with her striking attack while timing her opponent’s rhythm. She’ll have some knockout power coming back her way, so expect Jasudavicius to stay moving in the pocket as she looks to slip punches and counter from in close.
Why Mayra Bueno Silva Will Win
- Last Fight: (L) Macy Chiasson – TKO (doctor stoppage)
- Last 5: 2-2-1
- Finishes: 1 KO/TKO, 7 SUB
Mayra Bueno Silva will be returning to action following her last fight being cut short by a doctor’s stoppage. Silva had sustained a cut from an elbow and it was one of the nastier cuts we’ve seen in recent memory. She was holding her own during the fight, but a big focal point for her moving forward will be improving her defense and not allowing opponents to connect with clean shots. Her power allows her to have an advantage during a slug fest, but she’ll need to be conscious of her own well-being if she plans to fight like that.
With seven wins by submission, Mayra Bueno Silva will look to force this fight to the ground. She hasn’t notched one of her signature submissions in three fights, so it’ll be interesting to see how willing she is to engage in the grappling during this one. Still, Silva usually begins her attack on the feet and will look to back her opponent into a corner. From there, look for her to utilize the clinch as she’s one of the stronger fighters in the weight class.
Final Jasmine Jasudavicius-Mayra Bueno Silva Prediction & Pick
This should be a great fight between two high-level grapplers as both women are capable of finding submissions quickly. Jasmine Jasudavicius has won her last three fights while Mayra Bueno Silva is searching for her first win in two years. We can’t forget that she recently fought for the title and has effectively beaten some of the top fighters in the division.
Still, I believe the biggest difference in this fight will be the foot movement of Jasmine Jasudavicius. She’s the much faster and agile fighter, so she should be able to circle away from Silva and tire her out by the third round. It’ll be a close fight if they begin grappling, but I expect Jasudavicius to dictate this one with her striking from range. For our final betting prediction, let’s roll with Jasudavicius to get the win as the betting favorite.
Final Jasmine Jasudavicius-Mayra Bueno Silva Prediction & Pick: Jasmine Jasudavicius (-230)
The content of this article is for entertainment and educational purposes only, and ClutchPoints makes no warranty to the accuracy of the information given or outcome of any sporting event. Gambling is not offered on this website, and all betting content is intended for audiences ages 21+. All picks and predictions are based on each individual writer’s opinion, and don’t express that of ClutchPoints. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva Prediction, Odds, Pick for UFC Saudi ArabiaIn an exciting matchup set to take place at UFC Saudi Arabia, Jasmine Jasudavicius will face off against Mayra Bueno Silva in what promises to be a thrilling fight.
Jasudavicius, known for her striking skills and aggressive fighting style, will be looking to make a statement in this bout. With a record of 5 wins and 1 loss, she has shown that she has what it takes to compete at the highest level in the Octagon.
On the other hand, Silva, with a record of 7 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, is a well-rounded fighter with a strong ground game. She will be looking to use her grappling skills to control the fight and secure a victory.
In terms of odds, both fighters are evenly matched, with the bookmakers giving each of them a good chance of winning. However, based on their recent performances and fighting styles, I predict that Jasudavicius will come out on top in this matchup.
My pick for this fight is Jasmine Jasudavicius to win by TKO in the second round. Make sure to tune in to UFC Saudi Arabia to catch all the action and see if my prediction comes true!
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Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva prediction, UFC Saudi Arabia, fight odds, MMA analysis, expert pick, upcoming fight, matchup breakdown
#Jasmine #Jasudavicius #Mayra #Bueno #Silva #prediction #odds #pick #UFC #Saudi #Arabia
