On October 26, 2024, the MMA world will turn its attention to UFC 308, hosted at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Headlined by the highly anticipated Topuria vs. Holloway Featherweight showdown, this event promises to be a night of electrifying action, showcasing both the rise of new stars and the legacy of established champions.
The card is stacked with elite fighters from multiple divisions, each vying for a chance to solidify their dominance or make a breakthrough in their career. With so much on the line, let’s explore the matchups that are sure to captivate fight fans across the globe.
Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway (Featherweight Championship)
The headline bout for UFC 308 features Ilia Topuria (14-0), the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, defending his title against the legendary Max Holloway (26-7). Topuria, undefeated and widely regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport today, has cemented his place at the top of the featherweight division. His combination of knockout power, grappling prowess, and relentless pace has overwhelmed every opponent he’s faced.
Topuria’s rise to champion status has been meteoric, with several highlight-reel finishes that showcase his diverse skill set. His ability to seamlessly transition from striking to submissions makes him a formidable challenge for anyone in the division. However, standing across from him will be one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history, Max Holloway.
Holloway, known for his unmatched durability and volume striking, is a former UFC Featherweight Champion who has faced the best of the best. With victories over icons like José Aldo and Brian Ortega, Holloway’s career is already legendary, but he’s not done yet. This fight offers him an opportunity to reclaim his former glory and add another chapter to his storied career.
The matchup between Topuria and Holloway is as compelling as it gets. Topuria will look to use his power to put Holloway away early, but Holloway’s ability to withstand punishment and dish out relentless combinations could push this fight into the later rounds, where the champion’s cardio and grit will be tested. Will Topuria’s reign continue, or will Holloway reclaim his crown?
Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev (Middleweight)
Another headline bout features former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker (17-5) facing the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev (12-0), a rising superstar in the middleweight division. This fight is widely seen as a potential title eliminator, with the winner likely to challenge for the middleweight championship.
Whittaker, known for his technical striking and relentless pace, has consistently been one of the toughest fighters in the division. His ability to mix up his strikes, combined with his takedown defense, has allowed him to stay at the top of the middleweight rankings for years. Despite losses to Israel Adesanya, Whittaker remains a key figure in the division, and a win over Chimaev would put him back in title contention.
Khamzat Chimaev, on the other hand, is one of the most feared fighters in the UFC today. With his unmatched wrestling, crushing ground-and-pound, and knockout power, he has run through every opponent put in front of him. Chimaev’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric, and many see him as a future champion. However, Whittaker’s experience and well-rounded skill set present a significant challenge.
This fight will be a clash of styles—Whittaker’s technical striking against Chimaev’s overwhelming wrestling and pressure. Whittaker will look to keep the fight standing, where he can outpoint Chimaev on the feet, while Chimaev will undoubtedly try to drag Whittaker to the mat and impose his will. It’s a classic matchup of experience versus rising talent, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov 2 (Heavyweight)
The heavyweight division will be in the spotlight as former interim champion Ciryl Gane (9-2) takes on Alexander Volkov (12-4) in a rematch that promises fireworks. Gane, known for his exceptional movement and striking, dominated their first encounter, but Volkov has made significant improvements and is hungry for redemption.
Ciryl Gane’s style is unlike most heavyweights. He uses his footwork, speed, and technical striking to outmaneuver opponents, rarely taking damage while landing clean, accurate shots. His ability to control the pace of the fight and avoid danger makes him a tough challenge for anyone in the division.
Volkov, with his towering height and long reach, brings a unique set of skills to the octagon. Known for his kickboxing and striking accuracy, Volkov has the ability to finish fights both on the feet and from range. In their first fight, Gane’s movement was the deciding factor, but Volkov has been working on his ground game and overall fight IQ, making this rematch a highly anticipated bout.
A win for either fighter would propel them back into title contention in the ever-competitive heavyweight division. With both men having much to prove, expect a technical, yet hard-hitting battle when these two giants clash once again.
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic (Light Heavyweight)
Magomed Ankalaev (10-1-1) and Aleksandar Rakic (6-3) will face off in a light heavyweight showdown that could determine the next top contender in the division. Ankalaev, a methodical and powerful striker, has been on a tear in the division, showcasing his ability to dominate fights with both his striking and wrestling.
Ankalaev’s measured approach and fight IQ have made him a dangerous opponent, capable of picking apart his adversaries and finishing fights when the opportunity presents itself. His only career blemish came from a last-second submission, and since then, he has been nearly flawless inside the octagon.
Rakic, a talented kickboxer with a knack for devastating finishes, brings a different challenge for Ankalaev. His long reach and powerful kicks make him dangerous from a distance, and his ability to control the center of the octagon allows him to dictate the pace of his fights. Both fighters have their sights set on a title shot, and a win here could catapult them into the upper echelon of the light heavyweight division.
Expect a high-level chess match between these two skilled athletes, with Ankalaev’s wrestling and striking versatility pitted against Rakic’s precision and power.
Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige (Featherweight)
In a featherweight battle, undefeated English fighter Lerone Murphy (6-0-1) will take on the always entertaining Dan Ige (10-7). Murphy, known for his crisp striking and knockout power, has been on a steady rise in the division, with many seeing him as a future title contender.
Dan Ige, also known as “50K” for his exciting performances, is a well-rounded fighter who always brings the fight to his opponents. Despite a mixed record, Ige remains a fan favorite due to his toughness, durability, and ability to fight in any situation. He’s the type of fighter who thrives in high-pressure environments, and this matchup is no different.
Murphy will look to keep the fight standing, where his boxing skills and knockout power can shine, while Ige will likely try to mix in takedowns and wear Murphy down with pressure. It’s a classic striker vs. grinder matchup, and with both men looking to make a statement, this fight could steal the show.
Geoff Neal vs. Rafael dos Anjos (Lightweight)
In the lightweight division, Geoff Neal (7-4) will face former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos (21-14) in a battle of experience versus power. Dos Anjos, a UFC veteran and former champion, has fought the best of the best throughout his career and continues to remain relevant in the ever-changing lightweight division.
Geoff Neal, known for his heavy hands and knockout ability, is looking to make a name for himself by taking out a legend like dos Anjos. Neal’s striking is his bread and butter, and if he can keep the fight standing, he has the power to end the night early.
Dos Anjos, with his wealth of experience, will likely try to use his well-rounded skill set to neutralize Neal’s power. His ability to mix in grappling, striking, and pressure makes him a tough matchup for anyone. This fight could be a classic passing of the torch moment, or dos Anjos could show that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion: UFC 308 Is a Must-Watch Event
UFC 308 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the year, featuring high-stakes matchups across multiple divisions. From Ilia Topuria’s title defense against Max Holloway to Robert Whittaker’s clash with Khamzat Chimaev, the night is packed with fights that could change the landscape of the UFC.
With the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi providing the perfect backdrop, fight fans can expect a night of unforgettable action and potentially game-changing results. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the sport, UFC 308 is an event you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for October 26, 2024, and get ready for an epic night of MMA!
With UFC 308 promising unforgettable matchups, it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest events of the year. If you’re looking for more thrilling MMA coverage, check out our recap of UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr. here