The UFC event in Abu Dhabi on July 26, 2025, featured a record-breaking performance from Steven Nguyen, who achieved an unprecedented feat by knocking down his opponent, Mohammad Yahya, a total of eight times during their featherweight bout. The fight concluded with a doctor’s stoppage after Yahya sustained significant damage, including a swollen eye due to a hematoma.
In the main events of the evening, former champions Reinier de Ridder and Petr Yan both emerged victorious. De Ridder won by unanimous decision against Robert Whittaker, while Yan made a strong case for a title shot after handing Marcus McGhee his first defeat in the UFC.
Nguyen’s remarkable performance not only secured him his first victory in the UFC but also set a new record for the most knockdowns in a single bout. He dropped Yahya six times officially, with two additional knockdowns not counted due to the referee’s discretion. This level of striking dominance is unprecedented in UFC history, showcasing Nguyen’s prowess in the octagon.
Health Update on Mohammad Yahya
Following the fight, concerns regarding Yahya’s health arose. The UFC broadcast provided an update several fights later, confirming that Yahya did not suffer any facial fractures. The results of his CT scans were negative, indicating that he had avoided serious injury despite the intense battle. UFC CEO Dana White later shared an image of Yahya post-fight, highlighting the extent of the damage to his eye.
Referee Jason Herzog faced criticism for not stopping the fight earlier to prevent further injury to Yahya. Many observers felt that an earlier intervention could have spared him additional damage, given the visible swelling and hematoma around his eye.
Nguyen expressed gratitude towards Yahya for his resilience during the fight. “They told me that I was breaking a record, and I was like, wow,” Nguyen stated in a post-fight interview. He acknowledged Yahya’s toughness, saying, “I couldn’t have done it without him. He was tough and I was never gonna stop. It could have been seven, eight times, and I would have never stopped.”
Looking Ahead for UFC Fighters
With this victory, Nguyen has positioned himself as a fighter to watch in the featherweight division, while Yahya’s health update provides a sense of relief to fans and fighters alike. As the UFC continues to host events around the world, the focus remains on fighter safety and the integrity of competition.
The UFC Abu Dhabi event not only delivered memorable moments and record-breaking performances but also highlighted the importance of monitoring fighter health in high-stakes situations. As the organization moves forward, the balance between thrilling bouts and athlete welfare will be crucial in shaping the future of mixed martial arts.
