Robert Whittaker was supposed to fight Khamzat Chimaev in the main fight at UFC Saudi Arabia. However, with Chimaev unable to compete due to illness, Whittaker will now take on Ikram Aliskerov instead. This last-minute adjustment has introduced some uncertainty for Whittaker, as Aliskerov is not as well-known as Chimaev but still poses a credible threat. Aliskerov, who has a 15-1 record with his only loss against Chimaev, could jeopardize Whittaker’s championship dreams. The event also includes a co-main event featuring heavyweight contenders Sergei Pavlovich and Alexander Volkov, along with fights between Kelvin Gastelum and Daniel Rodriguez, Shara Magomedov and Antonio Trocoli, and Johnny Walker and Volkan Oezdemir. The preliminary card commences at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN+, followed by the main card at 3 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN+. In the main showdown, Whittaker will face a tough test in Aliskerov, while Pavlovich will strive to extend his streak of first-round victories against Volkov. Gastelum, Magomedov, and Walker will also be aiming for success in their respective matchups on Saturday evening in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Predictions for UFC Saudi Arabia event
