September is shaping up to be one of the busiest months on the MMA calendar, with major fights scheduled across the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Rizin Fighting Federation and Dana White’s Contender Series.
The lineup features championship bouts, undefeated prospects, former champions attempting to reassert themselves and dangerous matchups that could significantly affect several divisions. With so much on the schedule, Seán Sheehan has narrowed it down to his five fights to watch in September.
The selections include a fascinating featherweight clash between two undefeated fighters, a former Bellator MMA champion facing one of the most highly regarded prospects outside the UFC and Dan Hooker returning for another significant test against one of Europe’s brightest stars.
UFC 331 then delivers two major fights on Sept. 19. Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja will meet again for the flyweight championship, while Arman Tsarukyan faces the explosive Mauricio Ruffy in a bout with significant lightweight title implications.
From Osaka to Los Angeles and everywhere in between, these are Seán’s five fights to watch in September.
(1:17) Akbar Abdullaev vs. Anthony Figueroa 2 — Sept. 15
(5:31) Rajabali Shaidullaev vs. A.J. McKee — Sept. 10
(8:52) Dan Hooker vs. Salahdine Parnasse — Sept. 5
(12:38) Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja 2 — Sept. 19
(15:22) Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy — Sept. 19