Akbar Abdullaev to face Mairon Santos in UFC debut on Dec. 5
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 4, 2026, 3:16 AM
Last updated Nov 4, 2026
Undefeated fighter Akbar Abdullaev will make his UFC debut against Mairon Santos at UFC Saudi Arabia on December 5 in Riyadh. Abdullaev, with a record of 14-0, is coming off a 19-second knockout win on Dana White’s Contender Series in September. Santos, who has won all four of his UFC fights since joining in 2024, will be moving up from featherweight for this lightweight clash. UFC CEO Dana White has praised Abdullaev as potentially the greatest talent ever showcased on the Contender Series. This matchup marks a significant moment for both fighters as they step into the Octagon.
- •Abdullaev holds a 14-0 record with a 100% finishing rate.
- •Santos enters the fight with a 17-1 record.
- •UFC Saudi Arabia event takes place on December 5 in Riyadh.
- •Abdullaev earned his UFC contract with a quick knockout.
- •Dana White called Abdullaev a top talent from the Contender Series.
- 3:16 AMYahoo Sports — Dana White's Contender Series' 'greatest talent' gets UFC debut opponent
- 3:16 AMSherdog — Dana White's Contender Series' 'greatest talent' gets UFC debut opponent
"Akbar Abdullaev will reportedly make his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut against Mairon Santos.
"Akbar Abdullaev will reportedly make his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut against Mairon Santos.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsNov 4, 2026, 3:16 AMDana White's Contender Series' 'greatest talent' gets UFC debut opponent
Akbar Abdullaev will reportedly make his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut against Mairon Santos.
- SherdogNov 4, 2026, 3:16 AMDana White's Contender Series' 'greatest talent' gets UFC debut opponent
Akbar Abdullaev will reportedly make his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut against Mairon Santos.
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