Tumenov-Vagaev Title Fight Was Moved from ACA 181
Albert Tumenov, the former UFC fighter turned ACA welterweight champion, was scheduled to fight Abubakar Vagaev in ACA 181’s welterweight Grand Prix final, but the bout was postponed before the event. ACA 181 took place in Saint Petersburg on November 2, 2024, without the Tumenov–Vagaev title fight. The promotion moved that bout off the card; Grigor Matevosyan and Elmar Gasanov headlined instead.
The Matchup
The bout was removed from the ACA 181 card, so Tumenov and Vagaev did not meet on November 2. The promotion later scheduled their welterweight title fight as the main event of ACA 183 on February 8, 2025.
Tumenov’s Impressive Post-UFC Career
Since parting ways with the UFC in 2016, Tumenov has been on a remarkable run:
- Undefeated in his post-UFC career
- Nine consecutive victories, including eight in MMA and one in a custom rules bout
- Currently holds the ACA welterweight title
His last performance at ACA 168 in December saw him stop Ustarmagomed Gadzhidaudov in the fifth round to claim the championship belt.
The Challenger: Abubakar Vagaev
Vagaev (23-4) enters this contest with momentum of his own:
- Two consecutive unanimous decision victories
- Wins over UFC veteran Michel Prazeres and Edil Esenguglov
- Former ACA welterweight champion (2022)
- Impressive 7-1 record under the ACA banner
What’s at Stake
This bout not only determines the ACA welterweight grand prix winner but also puts Tumenov’s title on the line. For Tumenov, it’s an opportunity to solidify his dominance in the promotion and extend his winning streak. Vagaev, on the other hand, aims to reclaim the title and prove he’s the top welterweight in ACA.
The Significance of ACA 181
ACA 181 marks a crucial moment in both fighters‘ careers. For Tumenov, it’s a chance to continue his post-UFC renaissance and cement his status as one of the best welterweights outside the UFC. The event also highlights ACA’s growing prominence in the global MMA landscape, featuring high-level talent and compelling matchups.
ACA 181 proceeded without Tumenov–Vagaev. The bout was rescheduled as the main event of ACA 183 on February 8, 2025, where Abubakar Vagaev defeated Tumenov by unanimous decision to win the welterweight title and Grand Prix. ACA 183 official results
Citations:
[1] MMA Junkie
[2] Yahoo Sports Australia
[3] MMA Junkie on X
[4] Reddit MMA discussion
[Result] ACA official tournament page
[5] MMA Junkie on X
Sources
Tags: MMA
