One of the UFC’s fastest-rising welterweight prospects, Islam Dulatov, has suffered a frustrating setback after being forced to withdraw from his scheduled bout against Wellington Turman just hours before UFC Abu Dhabi. The late cancellation came after Dulatov was hospitalized due to an infection, ending what many fans viewed as one of the most anticipated matchups on the Fight Night card.
The announcement was made on fight day, with UFC officials confirming that Dulatov would not compete after falling ill. His management later revealed that he had been admitted to a hospital the night before the event because of the infection. Although both the UFC and his team explored every option to keep the fight intact, the decision was ultimately made to prioritize the fighter’s health.
A Rising UFC Prospect Faces Another Delay
The withdrawal is particularly disappointing because Dulatov had generated significant momentum following an impressive UFC debut in 2025. After earning his contract through Dana White’s Contender Series, the undefeated finisher stopped veteran Adam Fugitt with a first-round knockout, extending his remarkable finishing streak and establishing himself as one of the division’s brightest prospects.
The 27-year-old entered UFC Abu Dhabi carrying a 12-1 professional record with every victory coming by either knockout or submission. His aggressive fighting style and finishing ability have made him one of the most talked-about newcomers in the welterweight division.
Wellington Turman Left Waiting Again
For Wellington Turman, the cancellation was another difficult chapter in an already challenging comeback. The Brazilian had spent more than two years away from competition while recovering from multiple shoulder surgeries. Returning to the Octagon against a highly touted prospect like Dulatov represented an opportunity to revive his UFC career.
Despite the disappointment, Turman publicly wished Dulatov a speedy recovery, expressing hope that the matchup could eventually be rescheduled.
Why Islam Dulatov Has Been One of UFC’s Most Watched Prospects
Dulatov’s journey to the UFC has attracted attention far beyond mixed martial arts. Before dedicating himself fully to fighting, he worked as a successful fashion model, appearing in campaigns for luxury brands including Versace. After leaving the modeling industry, he focused entirely on MMA, eventually earning a UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series.
In recent interviews, Dulatov explained that family commitments and religious obligations delayed his return to competition after his successful UFC debut, making his Abu Dhabi appearance highly anticipated before illness forced another postponement.
What’s Next for Islam Dulatov?
Fortunately, early reports indicate that Dulatov’s illness is not expected to have long-term consequences. His management believes he will make a full recovery, although the UFC has not yet announced a replacement date for the fight against Wellington Turman.
Once healthy, Dulatov is expected to remain one of the UFC’s most exciting welterweight prospects. His combination of knockout power, submission skills, and undefeated momentum inside the Octagon continues to make him a fighter to watch as he looks to resume his climb toward the rankings.
Leave a Reply