Ex-champ Magomed Ankalaev returns atop UFC Abu Dhabi card on July 25

Magomed Ankalaev is returning to action for the first time since losing the UFC light heavyweight title in October. The former champion will headline UFC Abu Dhabi (Fight Night 282) on July 25 at Etihad Arena against Khalil Rountree, a previous title challenger. In the bantamweight co-main event, Umar Nurmagomedov faces David Martinez. The card will air in full on Paramount+. Ankalaev claimed the 205-pound crown with a victory over Alex Pereira in March 2025 before being dethroned later that year. Rountree, 36, enters with a 1-1 record through 2025 and represents the promotion's way of keeping Ankalaev active while potential title contenders develop. A win here would position the Las Vegas-based fighter back toward another championship opportunity.