The UFC on ABC 9 prelims in Abu Dhabi on July 26, 2025, feature a compelling featherweight clash between local fan favorite Mohammad Yahya and promotional newcomer Steven “The Ninja” Nguyen. Both men look to bounce back from recent setbacks and make a strong impression in one of the UFC’s most talent-rich divisions.

Mohammad Yahya
Mohammad “The UAE Warrior” Yahya (12–5) enters his third UFC bout under pressure after dropping his first two appearances in the Octagon. A former UAE Warriors lightweight champion, Yahya is an aggressive striker with knockout power and a willingness to trade. He has finished 7 of his 12 wins by TKO, often using a barrage of punches once he closes the distance.

Despite his power, Yahya’s recent UFC performances have raised questions about his defensive grappling and ability to handle pressure. He was outpointed by Trevor Peek in his debut and finished in the first round by Kaue Fernandes in his follow-up. Now competing closer to home, Yahya will be looking to re-establish momentum and leverage the hometown crowd.

Mohammad Yahya – Last 5 Fights:

* Loss vs. Kaue Fernandes – TKO (Punches) – UFC on ABC 7, Aug 3, 2024
* Loss vs. Trevor Peek – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC 294, Oct 21, 2023
* Win vs. Souhil Tairi – Decision (Unanimous) – UAE Warriors 37, Feb 26, 2023
* Win vs. Mohamed El Jaghdal – Submission (Arm-Triangle) – UAE Warriors 29, Mar 27, 2022
* Win vs. Yazid Chouchane – TKO (Punches) – UAE Warriors 21, Sep 3, 2021

Yahya is explosive but hittable, and his grappling defense remains a point of concern, especially against submission-savvy opponents.

Steven Nguyen
Steven “The Ninja” Nguyen (9–2) makes his full UFC debut after multiple wins on Dana White’s Contender Series. A rangy featherweight with crisp boxing and underrated submissions, Nguyen trains out of Fortis MMA and brings a more measured, technical style to the cage. He has finished 7 of his 9 wins, split between knockouts and submissions.

Nguyen’s most recent fight was a decision loss to Jarno Errens, where he struggled to impose his offense consistently. However, prior to that, he earned a second-round TKO over A.J. Cunningham, showcasing his power and finishing instincts. Nguyen’s mix of striking precision, takedown awareness, and fight IQ could prove critical in neutralizing Yahya’s early aggression.

Steven Nguyen – Last 5 Fights:

* Loss vs. Jarno Errens – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC on ESPN 53, Mar 23, 2024
* Win vs. A.J. Cunningham – TKO (Punches) – DWCS, Sep 12, 2023
* Win vs. Theo Rlayang – Decision (Unanimous) – DWCS, Sep 21, 2021
* Win vs. Jorge Juarez – KO (Punches) – LFA 100, Feb 19, 2021
* Loss vs. Aalon Cruz – KO (Flying Knee) – DWCS, Jul 30, 2019

Nguyen is a composed striker who manages range well and has shown improved defensive awareness since early-career setbacks.

This is a battle of power versus precision. Yahya will likely push the pace early and look to land big shots in front of the home crowd. However, if Nguyen can avoid the blitz and drag the fight into deeper waters, his striking efficiency and ground threat may take over. Yahya’s aggressive style leaves him open to counters, and Nguyen’s sharpness in transitions could expose defensive lapses.

Prediction
Expect Yahya to start strong and press forward, but Nguyen’s composure, range management, and balanced attack should gradually take control. If Nguyen can survive Round 1 without significant damage, he will likely start to pick apart Yahya and possibly find a finish late.

Prediction:
Steven Nguyen def. Mohammad Yahya via TKO (Punches) – Round 2

A poised performance from Nguyen could establish him as a promising new face in the featherweight division.