Heavyweights Clash in UFC Saudi Arabia: Abdelwahab vs. Pogues

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — The UFC makes its debut in Saudi Arabia this weekend with a heavyweight showdown between Hamdy Abdelwahab and Jamal Pogues. The fight, set for Saturday, Jan. 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, will kick off the prelims of the highly anticipated UFC Saudi Arabia event.

Hamdy Abdelwahab (3-0, 1 NC), an Olympic wrestler from Egypt, is looking to secure his first official UFC win after his debut victory was overturned due to a failed drug test. Abdelwahab, known for his powerful striking and elite Greco-Roman wrestling, has finished all three of his professional wins by knockout. His striking accuracy (52%) and significant strikes per minute (3.87) give him an edge over Pogues, who has a 44% striking accuracy and lands 3.36 significant strikes per minute.

Jamal Pogues (11-4), nicknamed “The Stormtrooper,” enters the octagon with a 2-1 UFC record. Pogues, who stands at 6’3″ with a 77-inch reach, has shown significant improvement in his striking and grappling skills. His recent unanimous decision victory over Thomas Petersen has boosted his confidence as he aims to climb the heavyweight rankings.

According to DraftKings, the odds are tight, with Abdelwahab at -115 and Pogues at -105. The over/under for rounds is set at 2.5, with the over favored at -250.

Abdelwahab’s wrestling pedigree and explosive striking make him a formidable opponent. “If Abdelwahab can impose his wrestling and land heavy strikes early, he is likely to overwhelm Pogues and secure another knockout victory,” said a UFC analyst.

Pogues, however, is confident in his ability to outlast Abdelwahab. “Pogues has shown stellar takedown defense during his time in the UFC, and while Abdelwahab is a high-level wrestler, Pogues should make him work early for those takedowns,” the analyst added. “This should pay dividends later in the fight as Pogues picks Abdelwahab apart down the stretch.”

Both fighters are eager to make a statement in this historic event. Abdelwahab is looking to redeem himself after his drug test controversy, while Pogues aims to continue his ascent in the heavyweight division. The fight promises to be a thrilling clash of styles, with Abdelwahab’s wrestling and striking pitted against Pogues’ reach and evolving skillset.

Final prediction: Jamal Pogues (-105), Over 2.5 Rounds (-250).