The octagon is set to ignite on February 1, 2025, in a highly anticipated heavyweight clash: Hamdy Abdelwahab vs Jamal Pogues. Scheduled to begin at 19:00 GMT, this thrilling bout will be part of the UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with both fighters eager to climb the ranks and solidify their positions in the division.
Fighter Profile: Hamdy Abdelwahab
- Nickname: The Hammer
- Born: Cairo, Egypt
- Height: 6’2″ (188 cm)
- Weight: 264 lbs (120 kg)
- Reach: 73″ (185 cm)
- Birthdate: January 22, 1993 (Age 32)
- Stance: Southpaw
- Professional Record: 5-0-0 (5 wins by knockout)
Before entering the MMA cage, Hamdy Abdelwahab had an illustrious career in Greco-Roman wrestling. He represented Egypt at the 2016 Summer Olympics in the men’s Greco-Roman 98 kg event. His wrestling accolades include a gold medal at the 2016 Africa & Oceania Olympic Qualification Tournament and a silver medal at Singapore’s 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
Abdelwahab transitioned to MMA with a bang. He made his debut on October 1, 2021, at Gamebred FC 2, earning a first-round TKO victory over Matthew Strickland. This debut set the tone for his career as he continued to dominate, securing another first-round TKO against Connor McKenna at Gamebred FC 3. After signing with iKon Fighting Championship, The Hammer maintained his momentum, defeating Dustin Clements via third-round TKO in January 2022. He followed up with a highlight-worthy first-round knockout against Matthew Strickland at iKon FC 3.
In June 2022, Abdelwahab made history by becoming the first Egyptian fighter to sign with the UFC. He debuted at UFC 277 against Don’Tale Mayes, securing a split-decision victory in what many considered a gritty performance. Unfortunately, the victory was later overturned to a No Contest due to a failed drug test, resulting in a two-year suspension by USADA. According to the suspension, he could compete again on July 30, 2024. However, at the end of July 2024, the UFC’s anti-doping program suspended him for six months due to “exogenous testosterone.” This means that the upcoming fight against Jamal Pogues will be his first since the suspension.
Fighter Profile: Jamal Pogues
- Nickname: The Stormtrooper
- Born: Los Angeles, USA
- Height: 6’3″ (191 cm)
- Weight: 265.5 lbs (120 kg)
- Reach: 77″ (196 cm)
- Birthdate: December 01, 1995 (Age 29)
- Stance: Orthodox
- Professional Record: 11-4-0 (4 wins by knockout)
Pogues began his professional journey in 2016. Three years later, he earned an opportunity to compete in Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS), where he defeated Marcos Brigagao via unanimous decision. While this performance was impressive, Pogues did not immediately earn a UFC contract. Undeterred, he continued to refine his skills, returning to DWCS in 2022 to face Paulo Renato Jr. This time, The Stormtrooper secured another dominant decision victory, impressing UFC officials with his resilience and composure, ultimately earning his spot in the organization.
He made his promotional debut on February 18, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 219, where he faced Josh Parisian. In a performance that highlighted his striking accuracy and cage control, Pogues secured a unanimous decision victory, marking an excellent start to his UFC career. Although his next bout against Mick Parkin at UFC 291 ended in a unanimous decision loss, he remained a promising prospect. And he proved it on February 3, 2024, against Thomas Petersen for UFC 235, which he won by unanimous decision.
What to Expect
This bout is pivotal for Abdelwahab, who aims to prove that his time away from the sport has only sharpened his skills and determination. As of now, the odds slightly favor Jamal Pogues. However, with one week to go before the fight, it remains to be seen if this trend will hold. One thing is certain: Whether you’re leaning toward Pogues’ tactical edge or Abdelwahab’s raw power, this showdown promises to deliver fireworks!
Update
With fight night just around the corner, excitement is building for the clash Hamdy Abdelwahab vs Jamal Pogues. The odds have now shifted in favor of The Hammer, reflecting growing confidence in his ability to dominate this bout. A former Olympic wrestler for Egypt, Abdelwahab’s elite grappling skills give him a significant edge in the clinch and on the ground. While questions about his conditioning and activity level linger due to his time away from the sport, his physical power and explosive style make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the heavyweight division.
On the other hand, Jamal Pogues brings a different set of tools to the table. Known for his technical striking and solid defense, The Stormtrooper thrives in longer fights, often relying on his cardio and ability to outpoint opponents over time. However, his lack of finishing power in the heavyweight division could put him at a disadvantage. In particular, if Abdelwahab imposes his aggressive wrestling game early. Pogues will need several strategies. First, to stay mobile. Second, keep the fight at range. Finally, use his striking to chip away at Abdelwahab while avoiding takedowns.
Given the stylistic matchup, I see Abdelwahab as the likely victor. His wrestling pedigree could allow him to control the pace and positioning. Especially if he can avoid gassing out. A ground-and-pound TKO or a unanimous decision in his favor seems like a plausible outcome. That said, heavyweight fights are always unpredictable. Thus, Pogues’ durability and fight IQ shouldn’t be underestimated, making this an intriguing battle between power and finesse. Now, take the next step. Sign up on the best betting platform and don’t miss what promises to be a thrilling contest!