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UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov – Hamdy Abdelwahab vs Jamal Pogues Preview

On February 1, 2025, UFC Fight Night takes place at The Venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, headlined by a middleweight clash between Israel Adesanya and Nassourdine Imavov. Before the main event, the prelims will feature a heavyweight battle between Egypt’s undefeated Hamdy Abdelwahab and the seasoned Jamal Pogues. This fight will test Abdelwahab’s power against Pogues’ durability in a division where one punch can change everything.

 

Fighter Profiles

Hamdy Abdelwahab

Record: 5-0-0 (1 NC) | Team: Killer B Combat Sports Academy | Nickname: The Hammer

Hamdy Abdelwahab is an Egyptian powerhouse with an undefeated record, bringing elite wrestling skills from his Greco-Roman background into the heavyweight division. His knockout power has been evident in all of his wins, finishing every opponent he has officially beaten inside the first round. Abdelwahab’s aggressive forward pressure and explosiveness make him a dangerous threat in the early rounds.

Jamal Pogues

Record: 11-4-0 | Team: Syndicate MMA

Jamal Pogues is a technical heavyweight with a well-rounded skill set. While he lacks finishing ability compared to Abdelwahab, Pogues has showcased excellent durability and fight IQ. His victories often come through calculated striking and smart use of defensive grappling. Pogues has been tested against higher-level competition and has the experience to frustrate aggressive opponents.

Key Fight Dynamics

Hamdy Abdelwahab’s Strengths

• Explosive Power: All of Abdelwahab’s wins have come via knockout, showing his ability to end fights in an instant.
• Elite Wrestling: With a Greco-Roman wrestling background, he can dictate where the fight takes place.
• Strong Inside Game: He excels in clinch exchanges, using his strength to control opponents and land heavy shots.

Jamal Pogues’ Strengths

• Durability: Pogues has absorbed damage from heavy hitters and continued to push forward.
• Technical Striking: He is a more measured and tactical striker compared to Abdelwahab’s wild power swings.
• Experience: With more fights and time inside the Octagon, Pogues has faced a higher level of opposition.

What to Expect

This fight comes down to whether Abdelwahab can land a fight-changing shot early or if Pogues can weather the storm and turn it into a battle of attrition. Abdelwahab’s aggressive style means he will look to press forward and force exchanges, while Pogues will aim to use footwork and patience to drag the fight into the later rounds.

 

Prediction