Shara “Bullet” Magomedov Wins War at UFC Abu Dhabi

The Bullet is back! Monster Energy’s Shara Magomedov delivered a statement performance at UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. de Ridder, defeating Marc-André Barriault by unanimous decision in a high-octane middleweight bout that earned both fighters the coveted $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus.

Fighting in front of a packed crowd at Etihad Arena, the 31-year-old from Makhachkala, Russia, showcased his signature Muay Thai striking and relentless pace across three action-packed rounds. The bout aired live on ABC and was part of a stacked Main Card that brought elite MMA action to Abu Dhabi.

Magomedov (16-1) entered the Octagon looking to rebound from his first UFC loss earlier this year to Michael Page. His opponent, 35-year-old Canadian veteran Marc-André Barriault (17-10), came in riding momentum from a recent win at UFC 315.

From the opening bell, Barriault pressed forward with aggression, but Magomedov’s evasive footwork and punishing low kicks quickly shifted the momentum. When Barriault secured a takedown, Magomedov sprang back to his feet and responded with sharp elbows and a stinging question mark kick to close out Round 1.

The intensity escalated in Round 2. Magomedov opened a cut on Barriault’s head with a brutal elbow in the clinch, followed by a body kick that kept the pressure on. But Barriault answered with a stiff jab that rocked Magomedov, forcing the Russian to dig deep and survive a flurry of strikes. Regaining control, Magomedov closed the round with more elbows and knees that left his opponent visibly shaken.

In the final round, both fighters went all-in. Magomedov continued to land clean shots, including a head kick and a devastating knee to the body that dropped Barriault to the canvas. With seconds left, Magomedov unleashed a barrage of ground-and-pound strikes, nearly finishing the fight before the final horn.

The judges scored the bout 30-27 across the board in favor of Magomedov, who celebrated the win with emotion and gratitude.

“Thank you to all the people who support me all over the world, I feel your support,” said Magomedov post-fight. “This is just the beginning. Bigger and higher. Better opponents, better victories!”

The performance earned Magomedov and Barriault the Fight of the Night honors, each taking home a $50,000 bonus for their efforts.

A Muay Thai specialist with a dynamic striking arsenal, Magomedov began his MMA career in China’s regional circuits, amassing an undefeated record before making his UFC debut in 2023 with a win over Bruno Silva. Known for his flashy kicks and unorthodox movement, he’s quickly become a fan favorite and a serious contender in the UFC’s middleweight division.

When asked about his next opponent, Magomedov kept it simple:

“Step by step, I will fight and win. I will become the champion.”

With this victory, Magomedov improves to 16-1 and reestablishes himself as one of the most exciting prospects in the division. Stay tuned for more from Shara “Bullet” Magomedov as he continues his climb toward UFC gold.