The UFC returns to Abu Dhabi this Saturday with UFC 308, a huge night of fights live from Etihad Arena. Headlining the event, undefeated featherweight champion Ilia Topuria will defend his title against former champ and current BMF titleholder Max Holloway in a thrilling matchup. The main event is set for five rounds and will feature Topuria, who took the title earlier this year by defeating Alexander Volkanovski, against Holloway, who’s been a top fighter in the division for years.
Main Event: Topuria vs. Holloway
Ilia Topuria (15-0) has shown exceptional power and grappling, and he’ll look to secure his first title defense in Abu Dhabi. Known for his knockout power, Topuria made history by ending Volkanovski’s five-year title reign. His opponent, Max Holloway, is a UFC legend and former featherweight champion who has beaten every top fighter in the division except Volkanovski. After a recent knockout win over Justin Gaethje, Holloway is riding a three-fight winning streak and will push for a chance to reclaim featherweight gold.
Co-Main Event: Chimaev vs. Whittaker
The co-main event will see Khamzat Chimaev face Robert Whittaker in a middleweight bout with potential title implications. Chimaev has gained fame for his quick finishes and grappling skills but has been slowed by injuries. This fight is his big chance to make a case for a title shot. Robert Whittaker, a former middleweight champion, has a reputation for his relentless fighting style and technical skill. Coming off a strong run with only one loss in his last four fights, he’s ready to take on Chimaev in a five-round battle.
Another High-Stakes Fight: Ankalaev vs. Rakic
In the light heavyweight division, Magomed Ankalaev will face Aleksandar Rakic. Ankalaev has been near the top of the rankings but hasn’t had a title shot since a draw against Jan Blachowicz in 2022. A win here could put him back in line for a title shot against Alex Pereira. Rakic, known for his knockout power, will look to spoil those plans in what’s expected to be a high-energy bout.
UFC 308 Main Card Preview & Odds
The UFC 308 main card is packed with top matchups, with Ilia Topuria favored to defend his featherweight title against Max Holloway. Oddsmakers have Topuria at -265, with Holloway as the underdog at +205 in a highly anticipated showdown.
In the co-main event, Khamzat Chimaev faces Robert Whittaker in a middleweight bout, where Chimaev is the -265 favorite, while Whittaker stands as a +210 underdog in a fight with title implications.
Featherweights Lerone Murphy and Dan Ige are set to clash, with Murphy listed as a -250 favorite and Ige at +195. Meanwhile, Magomed Ankalaev, at -400, is strongly favored against Aleksandar Rakic (+300) in a light heavyweight contest, a win in which could put Ankalaev back in line for a title shot.
Rounding out the main card, middleweights Shara Magomedov and Armen Petrosyan will face off, with Magomedov favored at -165, while Petrosyan is a +140 underdog.
Early Fight Results & How to Watch UFC 308
The early prelims brought some exciting moments:
- Ibo Aslan defeated Rafael Cerqueira with a first-round TKO.
- Geoff Neal won over Rafael dos Anjos by first-round TKO (injury).
- Abus Magomedov claimed a third-round submission over Brunno Ferreira with an arm triangle.
UFC 308 starts at 10 a.m. ET with early prelims, followed by the main card at 2 p.m. ET on ESPN+ PPV.
This card is stacked with must-watch fights from start to finish. With Topuria defending his title and Holloway fighting to reclaim the belt, UFC 308 promises an unforgettable night in Abu Dhabi.