UFC returns to pay-per-view this weekend, bringing the action back to “Fight Island” in Abu Dhabi for UFC 321 at the Etihad Arena. The main event features heavyweight champ Tom Aspinall defending his title against Ciryl Gane, marking Aspinall’s first undisputed title defense after Jon Jones’ unexpected retirement.
Aspinall steps into the spotlight after two years of challenges. He was previously an interim champion and has only one loss, avenged in his last fight against Curtis Blaydes through TKO. Gane, meanwhile, is rebounding from his previous defeat to Jones and aims for the championship.
The second title bout promises a new champion as Zhang Weili vacated the women’s strawweight title to pursue a fight against Valentina Shevchenko. Mackenzie Dern and Virna Jandiroba are set to compete for that vacant title.
Additionally, Umar Nurmagomedov seeks to reclaim a title shot in a bout against rising contender Mario Bautista. UFC CEO Dana White has mentioned that a stunning performance from either fighter could lead them to the next title fight.
Fight Card:
- Tom Aspinall (c) -345 vs. Ciryl Gane +275, heavyweight championship
- Mackenzie Dern -155 vs. Virna Jandiroba +130, vacant women’s strawweight championship
- Umar Nurmagomedov -625 vs. Mario Bautista +455, bantamweights
- Jailton Almeida -225 vs. Alexander Volkov +185, heavyweights
- Azamat Murzakanov -115 vs. Aleksandar Rakic -105, light heavyweights
Where to Watch:
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
Start time: 2 p.m. ET (main card)
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, United Arab Emirates
Where to watch: ESPN+ PPV
Stay tuned for more updates regarding UFC 321, including the latest features and stories leading up to this major event.
