Islam Makhachev could headline the UFC’s debut event in Saudi Arabia

That said, the UFC Fight Night 238 tournament, which was scheduled to take place March 2 in the capital Riyadh, will be canceled because the host country was not happy with the card, which lacked big names.

This was reported by prominent sports columnist Ariel Helwani.

“I first heard mention of this event from Islam Makhachev, who said he was going to fight Justin Gaethje on June 8 at a numbered event, and in light of the new information, his words make a lot of sense – obviously he knew something in advance,” the reporter said.

Last week, the Russian fighter left the following message on social media:

“June 8 against Gaethje, in November at Madison Square Garden Arena in New York against the winner of the Oliveira-Arman fight, in February 2025 against anyone.”

UFC officials have yet to make an official statement on the matter, so it’s unknown if the bouts from the canceled tournament will be rescheduled for June, or if they will be added to other cards.