Bryce Mitchell Returns to Bantamweight for UFC on ABC 9 Showdown

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Bryce Mitchell is making a return to bantamweight this summer. The mixed martial artist has been booked to face Said Nurmagomedov in a bantamweight bout at UFC on ABC 9, scheduled for July 26 at Etihad Arena, as confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White.

Mitchell, known as “Thug Nasty,” holds a record of 17-3 in MMA and 8-3 in UFC. After struggling in his recent fights at featherweight, he is eager for a fresh start at 135 pounds. He last fought in April, and this will be his first bout in this weight class since January 2015.

Nurmagomedov, with a record of 18-4 and 7-3 in the UFC, is also looking to turn things around after losing two of his last three fights. His latest match ended with a unanimous decision loss to Vinicius Oliveira at UFC Fight Night 250, but that fight was awarded Fight of the Night for its excitement.

This bantamweight matchup adds to an exciting fight card for UFC on ABC 9, including a co-main event featuring Aaron Pico against undefeated Movsar Evloev. Pico, known for his finishing ability, is riding a three-fight win streak and is keen to make a strong debut in the UFC.

Evloev, who has won all nine of his UFC fights since joining in 2019, is also looking for a championship opportunity. Despite his impressive record, UFC President Dana White has commented that Evloev’s performance in fights has not always met expectations, affecting his popularity.

As fight night approaches, both Mitchell and Nurmagomedov are determined to make a statement as they embark on crucial chapters in their careers.