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UFC Abu Dhabi: Shara “Bullet” Magomedov Battles Through Injury to Defeat Marc-André Barriault
Shara Magomedov’s long-awaited return to the Octagon was nothing short of a war. The Russian rising star, known for his unorthodox striking and intimidating aura, faced off against Canadian powerhouse Marc-André Barriault in a three-round slugfest at UFC Abu Dhabi on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Despite entering the bout as the favorite, Magomedov’s night quickly turned into a test of sheer willpower. Early in the fight, Barriault landed a crushing blow that shattered Magomedov’s nose. Blood streamed down the Russian’s face for most of the fight, yet he refused to back down, showing grit and determination that ignited the crowd inside Etihad Arena.
Striking Clinic Meets Resilience
Magomedov’s technique was crisp early on, landing spinning attacks and punishing leg kicks. But Barriault—known for his durability—kept pressing forward, absorbing shots and forcing Magomedov into deeper waters. The broken nose became a clear handicap, affecting Shara’s breathing and defense.
In the second round, Barriault seized momentum and nearly took control with clinch work and ground pressure. Still, Magomedov fired back with counterstrikes and creative angles, keeping the judges guessing.
Third Round Turnaround
The final round saw both men dig deep. Magomedov, despite visible pain, launched a barrage of body kicks and sharp elbows that reasserted his control. Barriault tried to close the distance, but Magomedov’s footwork and timing made the difference. By the end of the round, it was clear both men had left everything in the cage.
Judges Deliver a Close Call
After 15 intense minutes, the judges awarded Shara Magomedov a narrow decision victory. Though his face bore the marks of battle—most notably the gruesome broken nose—Magomedov walked away with his undefeated record intact and fans applauding his warrior spirit.
What’s Next for “Bullet” Magomedov?
This win, though hard-earned, keeps Magomedov’s stock rising. UFC fans are now buzzing about what lies ahead for the Dagestani striker. Whether it’s a step up in competition or a much-needed recovery period, one thing is certain: Shara Magomedov has solidified his place as one of the most compelling fighters to watch in the middleweight division.
According to MMA Fighting’s live coverage, the bout was as dramatic as it was brutal, with many calling it the fight of the night. Bloody Elbow detailed the shocking moment when Magomedov’s nose was visibly broken yet failed to derail his focus. Action Network’s pre-fight odds had Magomedov as a slight favorite, and he just managed to live up to that billing—despite facing one of the toughest tests of his career.
Final Verdict
Shara Magomedov’s victory in Abu Dhabi wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. In the face of adversity, he displayed the heart of a warrior, the mind of a tactician, and the soul of a fighter who refuses to quit. UFC’s middleweight division has been officially put on notice.