Meknes – Youssef Zalal is set to headline ACBJJ 22 in a major grappling matchup against Dagestani standout Zabit Magomedsharipov.
The highly anticipated grappling clash puts the Moroccan star on a collision course with a fan-favorite opponent, bringing high stakes and heavy star power to the top of the card.
The high-stakes main event is scheduled for August 30 at the Ora Arena in Istanbul, Türkiye. Fans worldwide can stream the main card for free on ACBJJ’s official YouTube channel and on X, featuring dedicated English commentary.
Zalal returns to action following a main-event loss to Aljamain Sterling in April, a defeat that halted an impressive nine-fight unbeaten run inside the UFC Octagon that featured five submission victories.
The matchup will be contested under submission grappling rules at 70kg, featuring both fighters in a special “all-stars” no-gi bout.
Both athletes have built standout winning streaks in the UFC’s featherweight division before finally crossing paths for the first time.
Nicknamed “The Moroccan Devil,” Zalal holds a professional mixed martial arts record of 18-6-1. A dangerous submission threat, over half of his career victories have come by way of submission, showcasing the elite ground game that makes him a natural fit for high-stakes grappling events.
Boasting a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, the Moroccan fighter is known for his smooth transitions and sharp positional control.
Meanwhile, Dagestani phenom Magomedsharipov holds a professional MMA record of 18–2, including a perfect 6–0 run inside the UFC.
Known for his flash and versatility, “ZaBeast” secured finishes in 13 of his 18 career victories, a dominant stretch backed by his reign as the ACB Featherweight Champion.
Widely considered one of the biggest “what-ifs” in modern combat sports, Zabit stepped away from MMA on a 14-fight win streak while holding a top-3 ranking in the UFC featherweight division. His decision to retire at the height of his prime only added to his legend among fans.
The lineup continues to grow with another marquee matchup, as former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad steps onto the mat to take on former Oktagon titleholder Kerim Engizek.
