UFC 251, held on July 11, 2020, emerged as a landmark event in MMA history. Dubbed “Fight Island,” this thrilling chapter unfolded at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic. The event stood out for its high-profile matchups and the extraordinary circumstances under which it occurred. This article revisits the event’s highlights, examines its major fights, and addresses frequently asked questions.
Fight Island: An Ingenious Solution
The UFC introduced Fight Island to overcome travel restrictions while ensuring safety during the pandemic. Yas Island, a familiar venue for UFC fans, transformed into a secure bio-bubble. Rigorous protocols, including quarantine and extensive testing, safeguarded participants, setting a new standard for sporting events during the pandemic.
Main Card Highlights
Kamaru Usman vs. Jorge Masvidal: Welterweight Championship
In the main event, Kamaru Usman defended his welterweight title against Jorge Masvidal, who stepped in as a last-minute replacement after Gilbert Burns tested positive for COVID-19. Despite Masvidal’s valiant effort with just six days of preparation, Usman dominated through grappling and clinch control. He secured a unanimous decision victory, tying Khabib Nurmagomedov’s record of 12 consecutive UFC wins.
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway: Featherweight Championship
The featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway ended in controversy. Volkanovski retained his belt via split decision (48–47, 47–48, 48–47) after five closely contested rounds. While many fans believed Holloway deserved the win, Volkanovski’s strategic takedowns in the later rounds likely influenced the judges.
Petr Yan vs. José Aldo: Bantamweight Championship
Petr Yan claimed the vacant bantamweight title in a dominant performance against José Aldo. Yan’s striking precision and relentless pace culminated in a fifth-round TKO, marking the beginning of his championship reign.
Other Noteworthy Fights
- Rose Namajunas vs. Jéssica Andrade: In a rematch, Rose Namajunas avenged her 2019 loss to Jéssica Andrade. Superior footwork and striking earned her a split-decision victory, positioning her for future title contention.
- Amanda Ribas vs. Paige VanZant: Amanda Ribas showcased her submission skills, defeating Paige VanZant via first-round armbar. This dominant win cemented Ribas as a rising star in the women’s flyweight division.
UFC 251 Records and Bonuses
The event set a record for total fight time, clocking 3 hours, 7 minutes, and 27 seconds. Bonus awards included:
- Fight of the Night: Rose Namajunas vs. Jéssica Andrade
- Performance of the Night: Jiří Procházka and Davey Grant
Behind-the-Scenes Drama and Challenges
COVID-19 Protocols
The pandemic posed significant challenges. Fighters, including Jorge Masvidal, had to adapt to last-minute changes. The strict protocols ensured the event proceeded without major health issues.
Weight Issues
Two fighters—Raulin Paiva and Vanessa Melo—missed weight, resulting in fines and catchweight bouts.
Judging Controversy
The split decision in the Volkanovski-Holloway fight reignited debates about MMA judging standards. Many fans and analysts argued that Holloway had done enough to win.
The Legacy of UFC 251
UFC 251 demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of MMA. It highlighted the sport’s ability to thrive amid adversity, delivering unforgettable moments to fans worldwide. The event remains a testament to the UFC’s innovative approach during challenging times.
FAQs About UFC 251
Why was UFC 251 held on Fight Island?
The UFC created Fight Island to allow international fighters to compete during travel restrictions, making Yas Island a symbolic and practical choice for this groundbreaking event.
How did Masvidal prepare on short notice?
Masvidal focused on weight-cutting and strategic adjustments, showcasing resilience despite limited preparation time. His willingness to step in earned widespread respect.
What happened after UFC 251?
- Kamaru Usman defended his title against Gilbert Burns and Colby Covington in subsequent fights.
- Alexander Volkanovski continued his title defenses, solidifying his legacy as a featherweight champion.
- Petr Yan faced Aljamain Sterling in a controversial bout, leading to a contentious title exchange.