MMA Fighter's Initial Hesitation Over UFC Opponent

ABU DHABI - Marc-Andre Barriault will face Shara Magomedov on the main card of UFC on ABC 9 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. Barriault secured a new UFC contract after defeating Bruno Silva at UFC 315 in May, ending a three-fight losing streak.

Barriault described his win in Montreal as a career highlight and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to fight Magomedov. Despite initial reservations about the matchup, he now feels confident in his abilities to compete in the division.

Magomedov, who suffered his first loss to Michael Page in February, is known for his style of drawing opponents into his game. Barriault, a striker who prefers fighting on the inside, plans to approach the fight strategically and utilize his skills to secure a positive outcome.