Shara Magomedov vs. Marc-André Barriault: UFC Fight Night Preview and Prediction

By Ali Hammad July 28, 2025 12:02

The middleweight clash between Shara “Bullet” Magomedov and Marc-André Barriault at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi on July 26, 2025, promised an intense battle with significant implications for both fighters' careers. Coming off a tough loss, Magomedov was looking to reaffirm his status among the division's rising stars, while Barriault sought to build momentum following a recent victory. The bout delivered a brutal, closely contested fight that earned both competitors the coveted UFC Fight of the Night bonus, illustrating the high stakes and ferocity on display.

Shara Magomedov, a 31-year-old from Makhachkala, Russia, entered the fight after his first UFC defeat to Michael ‘Venom’ Page in February 2025. With a professional record of 16-1, Magomedov had built a reputation as a rapid, technical striker who mixes precise low kicks and punishing elbows with evasive footwork. During the fight, Magomedov’s strategy hinged on controlling distance, utilizing low kicks effectively to hamper Barriault’s mobility while avoiding the Canadian’s heavy strikes. Despite sustaining a gruesome broken nose from a powerful right hook and uppercuts in the second round, Magomedov pushed through blood and pain to maintain control.

Marc-André Barriault, a 35-year-old UFC veteran from Quebec, Canada, came in with a 17-10 record and experience going up against top-ranked middleweights. Known for his aggressive pressure and durable chin, Barriault sought to overwhelm Magomedov with relentless attacks and clinch work. He managed to score several takedowns early and inflicted a serious cut on Magomedov’s head with a clean elbow strike. Barriault’s resilience was on full display when he landed significant shots that visibly rocked Magomedov in the second round, yet he too endured punishing strikes throughout the war.

The fight unfolded across three intense rounds defined by their brutal exchanges in the clinch and scrambles. Magomedov outlanded Barriault in significant strikes with a staggering 93 to 39 differential, showcasing his striking volume and precision. Key moments included Magomedov’s patented elbows and knees inside the clinch, which inflicted visible damage and shifted momentum in his favor. Barriault maintained pressure but struggled to match Magomedov’s pace and accuracy, particularly after Magomedov landed a devastating head kick and body knee late in the final round that dropped Barriault to the canvas. From there, Magomedov dominated with ground-and-pound while Barriault showed grit to survive to the final bell .

The judges awarded Magomedov a unanimous decision, 30-27 across the board, reflecting his control despite the fight’s gritty nature. Both fighters earned the $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus for their relentless effort and crowd-pleasing performance inside the Etihad Arena.

In a post-fight interview, Magomedov acknowledged the challenge and his intent to push forward: “I’m back!” he declared on social media, signaling his determination to avenge his earlier UFC loss and climb the middleweight ranks. Barriault, though disappointed, showed respect and readiness to regroup for future battles.

Analyzing the fight in terms of title contention, Magomedov’s victory demonstrates his ability to overcome adversity and technical threats, positioning him closer to top-tier middleweight matchups. His cardio, strategic kickboxing, and durability remain his greatest assets. Barriault’s toughness and experience continue to make him a difficult matchup, but the need to sharpen offensive output and striking defense is clear to remain competitive at this level.

The Magomedov vs. Barriault fight was a brutal, captivating middleweight war that highlighted both fighters’ heart and skills. Magomedov’s combination of volume striking, clinch control, and resilience earned him a critical win and Fight of the Night honors, while Barriault’s pressure and durability underscored his veteran status despite the loss. Fans and analysts alike can expect Magomedov to continue pushing toward title contention, with Barriault looking to rebound in future UFC outings.