UFC Saudi Arabia was a ginormous disappointment for most of the fight fans as Israel Adesanya was knocked out by Nassourdine Imavov. But for Cristiano Ronaldo, it was the co-main event that was a letdown. Well, for starters, ‘CR7’ was one of the VIP guests sitting beside Sheikh Turki Alalsikh at ANB Arena. And he had formed a special bond with Sharaputdin Magomedov prior to his bout against Michael ‘Venom’ Page. The duo even exchanged their T-shirts. And the soccer legend had a front-row seat to watch Shara ‘Bullet’ get schooled. Nevertheless, the MMA world has found its way back to Ronaldo by sending him ‘Happy Birthday’ wishes on 5 February 2025. 

To be specific, it was the former UFC heavyweight champion and current PFL heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou, who wished the soccer star on his birthday. ‘The Predator’ took to Instagram and shared a handful of pictures he had with the Portuguese soccer star. In the caption, he wrote, “Happy big 40th anniversary LEGEND 🎂🍾Eat some cake and drink some champagne 😉.” 

While it was nothing short of a cheerful wish, it wouldn’t have been easy for Ronaldo to witness the defeat of his new friend. According to ‘Shara Bullet’, the duo talked about the UFC for about half an hour. And ‘CR7’ had rooted for the Dagestani fighter’s victory, claiming that he had the potential to become a champion. But alas!

Nevertheless, the love that the soccer star received from the world of mixed martial arts was phenomenal. But it was Dana White’s opinion of Ronaldo that had the entire world in cheers. Let’s take a look at what the UFC head honcho had said. 

Dana White shares his honest opinion on Cristiano Ronaldo

Following the disappointing defeat of Sharaputdin Magomedov at UFC Saudi Arabia, the UFC CEO talked about Ronaldo in the press conference. He said, “I’m not a big soccer guy but as far as superstars, he’s one of the biggest superstars ever. You know what I like about him too? As popular, as successful, and as wealthy as he’s become, he’s a very nice humble guy. I like him. He’s a very nice guy.”

This was big praise coming from a man who called soccer ‘the least talented sport on Earth.’ Even Ronaldo was pretty happy about being present in the VIP seats at UFC Saudi Arabia. The Chairman of the Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority, Sheikh Turki Alalsikh, shared a video on his social media page where Ronaldo talked about his love for the sport. He said, “You know, everyone know me. I love UFC. I love Riyadh Season. You’re doing a fantastic show. Congratulations, guys.”

Well, being a part of the Al Nassr team, it was expected that Ronaldo would witness the fights in Saudi Arabia in person. But despite the disappointments at the event, the Portuguese soccer star still received love from a former mixed martial artist. 

Do you think Magomedov can redeem himself and help ‘CR7’ rejoice with a victory in his next bout, provided the talks about his retirement are false? What do you think of Ronaldo’s interest in the world of mixed martial arts? Drop down to the debate section and keep the conversation flowing.