Overview
- The UFC has scheduled numbered event UFC 333 for Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island; the promotion revealed the date during its recent Fight Night in Abu Dhabi.
- UFC executive Dave Shaw announced the return live at the Ankalaev vs Guskov show while the organisation encouraged fans to register interest for tickets on VisitAbuDhabi.ae.
- Official VIP experience and hospitality packages will be sold through On Location and UFCVIP.com, with travel and hotel bundles promoted for the planned Abu Dhabi Showdown Week of fan events.
- The full fight card and main event have not been released, leaving open the possibility of headline title fights but also creating uncertainty given past last-minute withdrawals on Abu Dhabi cards.
- The booking reinforces a long-running UFC partnership with Abu Dhabi that dates to 2010 and has brought more than 20 events to the emirate, boosting tourism and local event revenue while exposing fans to the risk of late card changes.