UFC Fight Night is back in Abu Dhabi, and the fighters are ready. The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the Etihad Arena — the UFC's 19th visit to the city — with a stacked card headlined by a bantamweight title eliminator between Umar Nurmagomedov and Cory Sandhagen. Before fight night, several of the card's top names sat down to share their mindsets.
Umar Nurmagomedov Leans on Khabib's Teachings
Umar Nurmagomedov, who squares off against Cory Sandhagen in the main event, spoke about training under his cousin, Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov. He said he understands exactly what is expected of him and that he is ready for whatever pressure comes his way. "Khabib was very tough in training us," Umar noted, adding that the lessons from those sessions would help him push their shared legacy forward.
Mackenzie Dern: "I Always Love Abu Dhabi"
Mackenzie Dern, set to fight Loopy Godinez, made clear how much she cherishes competing in the UAE capital. "I am glad to be here; I always love Abu Dhabi," she said. Dern praised the region's deep support for martial arts and used her platform to send a message to aspiring young female fighters — work hard, be brave, and take the initiative.
Shara Magomedov Credits Better Preparation
Middleweight standout Shara Magomedov, facing Poland's Michal Oleksiejczuk in the co-main event, explained how his preparation this time around differed from earlier bouts. "In facing my first two opponents, I had issues preparing without sufficient day's notice," he said. "The UFC has given me this chance and I have had better preparation and better physical conditioning." Magomedov was eager to show his full range of abilities on the big stage.
Tony Ferguson Arrives Sharp and Ready
Tony Ferguson made no attempt to mask his excitement heading into his bout with Michael Chiesa. He spoke warmly about Abu Dhabi and its fans, emphasizing the diversity of the crowd. "I feel strong, I feel sharp, and I feel ready now," he said. Calling his time in the city "awesome," Ferguson highlighted the fans from all walks of life who had shown up to support the event.
Cory Sandhagen on Growing UFC Markets
Main event fighter Cory Sandhagen also sat down ahead of fight night. He spoke about the friendliness of the people in Abu Dhabi and the enthusiastic reception from local fans. Sandhagen noted that new MMA markets — Japan, India, and African nations among them — are fuelling the sport's global growth, and that events in cities like Abu Dhabi play a direct role in that expansion. He also pointed to the broader Fight Night card, including Nick Diaz's return to the octagon and the Ferguson vs. Chiesa matchup, as reasons for fans to tune in from the first prelim to the final bell.
