Former gentle heavyweight champion Jan Błachowicz will face rising contender Bogdan Guskov in a conflict on November 22, 2025, at UFC Struggle Evening in Qatar. The bout represents a essential matchup at 205 kilos as each fighters look to make statements within the aggressive gentle heavyweight division.
The occasion marks UFC’s historic debut in Qatar, going down on the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Area in Doha. This milestone makes Qatar the thirty second nation to host a UFC occasion and the third within the Center East, following the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The venue, often known as ABHA Area, gives a 7,700-seat capability and options state-of-the-art amenities.
Jan Błachowicz vs. Bogdan Guskov
Błachowicz, 42, enters the bout because the division’s fifth-ranked fighter following latest setbacks. The Polish veteran endured a prolonged layoff after struggling accidents to each shoulders that required separate surgical procedures. His most up-to-date look got here in March 2025, the place he misplaced a unanimous choice to Carlos Ulberg in his return from a 20-month absence. Previous to that, he suffered a break up choice loss to Alex Pereira at UFC 291 in July 2023.
The former champion’s recent struggles follow a remarkable career resurgence that saw him claim the vacant light heavyweight title by knocking out Dominick Reyes at UFC 253 in September 2020. His reign included a successful defense against Israel Adesanya at UFC 259, making him the primary fighter to defeat Adesanya within the UFC. Nonetheless, he misplaced the title to Glover Teixeira by way of submission at UFC 267 in October 2021.
Guskov, 32, currently holds the 10th position in the UFC light heavyweight rankings after an impressive four-fight winning streak. The Uzbekistan native has shown finishing ability in recent performances, including a first-round knockout victory over Nikita Krylov in July 2025. His UFC record includes notable victories over Ryan Spann via second-round TKO and Zac Pauga via first-round knockout. His only UFC defeat came in his promotional debut against Volkan Oezdemir, who submitted him in the first round in September 2023.
Career Context and Stakes
Błachowicz seeks to reestablish himself as a title contender after consecutive losses and the extended injury layoff that sidelined him following the Pereira fight. His experience as a former champion provides motivation as he attempts to climb back into contention in a division currently led by champion Magomed Ankalaev.
For Guskov, the bout represents his highest-profile opponent since joining the UFC roster. His professional record stands at 18-3, with 15 wins by knockout and three by submission. Known for his finishing ability, Guskov has secured 12 first-round finishes throughout his career. The opportunity to face a former champion provides a pathway to break into the division’s top tier.
Event Significance
The partnership between UFC and Visit Qatar facilitated the groundbreaking event, which represents the group’s continued international growth technique. UFC President Dana White emphasised the corporate’s worldwide progress targets, stating the promotion goals to carry occasions worldwide. The Qatar debut follows profitable ventures in different Center Jap markets, together with Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia.
The November card builds on UFC’s regional presence, with the organization having established a strong foothold in Abu Dhabi through multiple annual events. The success of Middle Eastern shows has provided a blueprint for the Qatar expansion, with officials expressing confidence in the market’s reception.
Additional confirmed bouts for the card include a flyweight matchup between Alex Perez and Asu Almabayev. The complete fight lineup remains under development as the UFC continues to finalize the historic card for its Qatar premiere.
