Former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya will make his return to the octagon in Saudi Arabia, matched against a rising contender in the 185-pound division. The bout was reported by MMA Junkie's Farah Hannoun on November 8, 2026.
Adesanya, one of the most prominent strikers in MMA history, has not competed since his title loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 in August 2024. The Nigerian-born New Zealander holds a professional record of 24-3 and previously defended the middleweight title five times across two reigns.
The identity of Adesanya's opponent has not been disclosed in the initial report. The event marks the UFC's continued expansion into Saudi Arabia following previous cards in Riyadh. Further details regarding the date, venue, and co-main event are expected to be announced by the promotion in the coming weeks.
