Fight Week Preparations Kick Off

The second episode of the UFC 321 Embedded Vlog Series, released on October 21, 2025, offers an inside look at the fighters' final preparations ahead of the highly anticipated event in Abu Dhabi. This episode captures the balance between intense training and personal moments as the athletes gear up for their bouts at Etihad Arena on October 25, 2025. The video provides a glimpse into the lives of several key fighters on the card, showcasing their routines and mindsets during fight week.

Ciryl Gane Embraces the Heavyweight Lifestyle

Challenger Ciryl Gane, set to face heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall in the main event, is seen enjoying the perks of the heavyweight life. Early in the episode, Gane indulges in a fancy team meal, highlighting the camaraderie and lighter moments before the intensity of fight night. His relaxed demeanor offers a contrast to the grueling training sessions that have defined his journey to this title shot.

Umar Nurmagomedov Sharpens His Skills

Bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov, scheduled to face Mario Bautista, focuses on his physical conditioning in this episode. The footage shows him working on cardio and grappling drills, emphasizing his dedication to maintaining the high-level performance expected from a fighter with his pedigree. His training segments underscore the technical precision he aims to bring into the octagon.

Mackenzie Dern Balances Personal and Professional

Mackenzie Dern, who will compete against Virna Jandiroba for the vacant women's strawweight title in the co-main event, takes a moment for self-care. The video captures her getting her nails done before heading to jiu-jitsu practice, illustrating how she manages personal touches alongside her rigorous training schedule. This blend of preparation and personal life adds depth to her fight week narrative.

Jailton Almeida's Cultural Experience

Heavyweight fighter Jailton Almeida brings a unique flair to the episode by dressing as a sheikh, embracing the local culture in Abu Dhabi. This lighthearted moment, featured midway through the video, provides a break from the intensity of fight week and showcases Almeida's personality outside the cage. It’s a reminder of the diverse experiences fighters encounter during international events.

Virna Jandiroba Fine-Tunes Her Striking

Virna Jandiroba, Dern’s opponent for the strawweight title, is shown honing her striking skills in a focused training session. Her dedication to improving every aspect of her game is evident as she prepares for the rematch, having previously lost to Dern by unanimous decision in 2020. This segment highlights her determination to claim the championship belt.

Tom Aspinall Prepares for Title Defense

Heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, headlining UFC 321 against Gane, is featured hitting pads at the host hotel. His training footage, shown towards the latter part of the episode, reflects the intensity and focus required to defend his title. Aspinall’s presence in the video reinforces his status as a dominant force in the division, ready to face a formidable challenger.