The UFC likes to really build things up.
Sometimes it pays off with an epic fight or an incredible event.
Other times, things fall apart and it never pans out.
With July heating up now, that means we are days out from UFC 251 and what the promotion is building as epic, incredible and every other word to describe putting three title fights on the very first “Fight Island” event.
The card takes place July 11 from UFC Fight Island on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It is not the first time the UFC has hit up Abu Dhabi, but never like this.
This is the first look at the testing and infrastructure being built on Fight Island (Yas Island, Abu Dhabi). This experience is going to so BADASS for my fighters and my staff!!! #InAbuDhabi @VisitAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/dog3eIhxxC
— danawhite (@danawhite) June 30, 2020
A specially-created “safety zone” is being put in place as we speak to keep the fighters, personnel and others safe from the coronavirus and COVID-19. The UFC has held events in Florida and Las Vegas since returning, but this is definitely something different.
There will be no fans allowed around the Octagon, with the card kicking off at normal United States pay-per-view times. That, however, means the fighters will be competing at 6 a.m. in Abu Dhabi, which should make adjusting a little interesting.
Three Championship Fight Planned
As mentioned, three title fights are scheduled for the main card headlined by Kamaru Usman defending his welterweight belt against Gilbert Burns. While maybe not the type of main event names typical for the UFC in July, it will be an interesting clash between teammates and two guys really looking for the finish.
Along with Usman vs. Burns, Alexander Volkanovski defends his featherweight title for the first time against former champion Max Holloway. Volkanovski won the belt over Holloway last year in an epic five-round decision.
Completing the trifecta of title fights is Petr Yan in his first championship match against former UFC champion Jose Aldo. The vacant bantamweight belt will be on the line between Yan and Aldo.
Rounding out the main card are two female fights sure to deliver as Jessica Andrade and Rose Namajunas square off while Amanda Ribas meets Paige VanZant.
The prelims are also filled with interesting bouts.
So, the question is, will this deliver an epic and incredible night of action for the UFC and fans around the world? We will just have to tune in and find out.