Sharabutdin Magomedov vs Marc-André Barriault takes place on July 26th, 2025, at UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs De Ridder in Abu Dhabi. This middleweight match is a high-stakes bout between flashy, volume-striking showman and tested power-swinging brawler. Fresh off the first loss of his pro career, Magomedov welcomes Barriault in hoping to send a message, making this one of the most exciting co-main events of the summer.

Magomedov, or "Shara Bullet," created headlines inside the UFC due to his unorthodox striking and undefeated record. That said, a unanimous decision loss to Michael "Venom" Page at UFC 303 has raised questions about whether he can keep up with the division's best. A second straight loss would put his rise up the rankings into the top 10 on hold, so this bout against Barriault is one he needs to win.

Marc-André "Power Bar" Barriault enters the Octagon as an underdog but with plenty of experience. The Canadian middleweight is known for his toughness and stamina, and he's most recently coming off a solid KO win over Bruno Silva. For Barriault, it's an opportunity to KO a highly touted contender and position himself for a ranked fighter in his next bout.

Sharabutdin Magomedov is a Russian middleweight who trains in flashy, innovative striking based in Muay Thai and kickboxing. With a pro MMA record of 15-1, Magomedov has finished 12 of his victories by KO or TKO. With his long reach, unorthodox stance, and flashy kick, Magomedov is a crowd pleaser, but his takedown defense and ground game have yet to be tested on the highest levels.

Marc-André Barriault brings a classic, pressure-based game into the cage. His record is 17-9, with 10 of those victories coming by way of knockout. Though he's had a rollercoaster in the UFC, Barriault always fought top-level competition and never shies away from a fight. His ability to take damage and dish out damage is his largest asset when up against fighters who employ movement and rhythm.

This bout is a classic example of a volume striker facing a gritty, relentless pressure fighter. Magomedov will try to keep the fight at range with his kicks, jabs, and lateral movement. His flashy striking arsenal includes spinning attacks, high kicks, and blistering combinations that can wear out slower foes.

Barriault, on the other hand, thrives in the mayhem. He fights most effectively when he is coming forward, forcing his opponents to fight off their back foot. His ability to tire out his opponents with body shots, dirty boxing, and clinch control could destroy the rhythm of Magomedov. If he can close the distance and generate clinch work, he may be able to neutralize the Russian's reach advantage.

Sharabutdin Magomedov is the overwhelming favorite for this fight, according to the current Stake.com betting lines.

• Magomedov: 1.15

• Barriault: 5.80

If you're looking for value bets, seek round props or method-of-victory wagers. Magomedov by KO/TKO is the likeliest, but Barriault does have a puncher's chance, especially in the early rounds.

To maximize your winnings on UFC bets, check out the exclusive deals at Donde Bonuses This site hand-picks the best crypto sportsbook bonuses, offering offers like:

• $21 Free Bonus

• 200% Deposit Bonus

• $25 & $1 Forever Bonus (at Stake.us)

Whether you're betting on Magomedov to rebound or betting on Barriault for the upset, Donde Bonuses can stretch your bankroll and enhance your betting experience.

Magomedov has everything it takes to take this fight to the woodshed. His striking accuracy, footwork, and technique make him a decisive technical edge. On the losing end against Page, he will be looking to make a statement and show the UFC brass that he's one of the best in the division.

Barriault, as formidable and deadly as he is, isn't explosive or chameleon-like enough to take a three-round striking battle. Unless he catches something clean early, he could be picked apart over the course of three rounds or stopped in his tracks.

Prediction: Sharabutdin Magomedov by KO/TKO in Round 2.

The middleweight division is rich, and all bouts matter. For Sharabutdin Magomedov, it is a chance at redemption and relevance. For Marc-André Barriault, it's a golden chance to knock out an up-and-comer and establish himself as a legitimate threat once more.

While the chances are with Magomedov, those types of fights are often decided on the basis of heart, pressure, and brief tactical advantage moments. Don't miss what should be a high-energy, action-packed fight in Abu Dhabi.

Want to wager on the fight? Bet on Stake.com for the best available odds, and don't forget to pick up your Donde Bonuses prior to the bout getting underway.