Abu Dhabi showdown week kicks off on Yas Island with fan experiences

ABU DHABI: The UFC, with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is kicking off the event’s showdown week on Yas Island with fan experiences, athlete appearances and live events ahead of UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Guskov at Etihad Arena on July 25.

Starting on Tuesday and running until Sunday, Abu Dhabi Showdown Week brings fans closer to the action.

UFC Fan Experience

The free UFC Fan Experience at Yas Mall will have the latest EA SPORTS UFC gaming station, Grip Challenge, and Striking Challenge and Kick Power activations, alongside a range of immersive experiences.

Khabib Gym will host daily fitness activations from July 23 to 26, between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., where fans can compete in push-up and squat challenges. Every participant will receive a complimentary one-day pass to Khabib Gym.

On July 24 and 25 , UFC GYM will host live sparring showcases, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes and super fights, alongside interactive fitness challenges at Yas Mall from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Fans can test their endurance in bodyweight challenges for the chance to win prizes.

Open workouts

On Wednesday, July 22, fans will have the opportunity to see some of the event’s biggest stars in action during the open workouts, commencing at 6 p.m.

Former UFC light-heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev and his opponent Bogdan Guskov, undefeated lightweight prospect Magomed “Chanko” Zaynukov and rising welterweight star Islam Dulatov are scheduled to appear.

Ceremonial weigh-ins and meet and greet

On Friday, July 24, at Etihad Arena, doors open at 4 p.m. for the ceremonial weigh-ins.

Fans can enjoy a special live Q&A with UFC light-heavyweight champion Carlos Ulberg, No. 3-ranked featherweight contender Lerone Murphy and