When Fight Island's four-event schedule was initially revealed, Malcolm Gordon and Amir Albazi weren't even on the radar—let alone booked for competition.
Everything has shifted since then.
Canada's Gordon (12-3) is set to clash with England's Albazi (12-1) in a flyweight contest Saturday evening at UFC Fight Island 2 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, where both fighters will take their first steps inside the Octagon.
Gordon, 30, expressed pure excitement about competing at Fight Island, a concept the MMA community has discussed for months.
"It's absolutely incredible. This is a historic moment," Gordon told MMA Empire during an interview.
"The first image that popped into my head was Mortal Kombat. Dana White should be sitting in his chair looking like Shang Tsung, giving the thumbs up or down and shouting 'finish him.'" Editor's note: corrected "Shane Tsung" to "Shang Tsung"
The original fight planned for that spot featured Tagir Ulanbekov facing Oleksandr Doskalchuk. Once Ulanbekov pulled out after the death of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Gordon jumped in to face Doskalchuk. Days later, Doskalchuk was also removed from the card, creating an opening for Albazi to enter with support from Paradigm Sports Management.
Albazi, 26, said he appreciates the chance to display his abilities at the highest level, and is especially pumped to do it at Fight Island.
"This means a great deal to me because I've been waiting to prove myself on the biggest stage, and now it's finally here. I can't wait to put on a show Saturday," Albazi told MMA Empire.
"I'm thrilled to be part of Fight Island and see how everything works out here. The UFC has done a fantastic job resuming events during this pandemic."
A silent arena could work in Gordon's favor
Just like every UFC event held throughout the COVID-19 crisis, Saturday's card will happen without the typical packed houses.
Even though the setting might not match how he pictured his UFC debut, Gordon suggested fighting without spectators could actually benefit him.
"It could end up being a blessing in disguise. With debutants, the energy can be overwhelming—you're in the UFC, there are 20,000 screaming fans, the venue is shaking, and on top of all that you're trying to stay focused, fight, and listen to your coaches," Gordon explained.
"When we walk out there, it'll be completely quiet. I'll hear my corners perfectly, and it'll feel like an intense sparring session at the gym. I won't have to deal with any crowd distractions, just the opponent right in front of me."
After the well-known deal that sent UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson to ONE Championship in exchange for Ben Askren joining the UFC, Gordon admitted he doubted he'd ever get the chance to compete in the UFC, since the flyweight division seemed to be winding down.
With the opportunity now real, Gordon expressed gratitude but stressed he needs to secure that first UFC victory before he considers it official.
"It feels great, but it'll feel even better once I record my first win," Gordon said.
"Talk is easy, but actually delivering is different. I'll feel truly satisfied once I finish this mission in front of me, and only then can I call myself a UFC fighter."
Albazi belongs among the elite
Where Gordon hasn't fought in 15 months, Albazi recently came off a first-round submission triumph against Ryan Curtis at Brave CF 29 back in November.
Beyond avenging his sole career defeat at the previous outing, Albazi noted his last performance demonstrated he's operating at a level capable of challenging the world's finest.
"That result was proof I'm among the best flyweights worldwide," Albazi declared.
"I trust my abilities and I know exactly what I bring to the table."
Both Albazi and Gordon have exhibited versatile skill sets throughout their careers, accounting for 21 combined finishes between them.
Understanding what Gordon offers, Albazi anticipates a difficult fight but remains confident he won't lose regardless of how the bout unfolds.
"I expect a solid fight and I'm prepared for wherever it goes," Albazi stated.
"I firmly believe I'm superior in every aspect."
Gordon's Shoutouts
"One of my biggest acknowledgments goes to Dr. Faisal Rehman. He arranged all my medical exams on a day's notice. Without him, this fight wouldn't exist. I'd also like to thank my friends, family, and every sponsor who supported me throughout this journey." Follow Gordon on social media: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
Albazi's Shoutouts
"I want to thank my team (London Shootfighters) and the finest management group in the world, Paradigm Sports Management. I also owe thanks to the UFC and Mick Maynard for this chance, plus my sponsors (Dabloom, Plant & Equipment, Business Exchange Bureau). Follow Albazi on social media: FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM
