UFC Belgrade Weigh-ins: Everything Went Smoothly, But One Fighter Stirred Controversy

What Happened at the Weigh-ins?

Imagine a big room where fighters step on a scale to prove they’re the right weight for their fight. That’s what happened Friday morning in Belgrade before Saturday’s big UFC event at the Arena.

Here’s the simple breakdown:

• Who ran the show: Famous UFC commentator Jon Anik (the voice you hear on TV)
• When: 9:00 AM to about 10:30 AM — right on schedule
• Mood: Relaxed! Nobody looked exhausted or stressed
• The surprise: Only one fighter took his shirt off — and he had a towel around his waist

IMPORTANT POINT: Making weight is a huge deal. If a fighter is too heavy, they can’t fight, or they lose money. Everyone passing is like the whole class passing a test!

Meet the "Shirtless" Fighter: Denis Buzukja

The fighter who stepped on the scale in just a towel is Denis Buzukja — an Albanian-American who fights in the featherweight division (that’s 145 lbs / 66 kg).

His stats:

• Overall record: 12 wins, 6 losses
• UFC record: Only 1 win in 5 fights — he’s on thin ice
• Opponent Saturday: Bogdan Grad from Austria (15 wins, 4 losses)
• Where on the card: First fights of the night (the "prelims")

The Serbian Fighters: All Smiles

Every single Serbian fighter:

• Made weight easily
• Smiled for the cameras
• Got applause from the crowd
• Walked off stage happy

They’re ready for Saturday!

The Controversy: That Hand Gesture

After making weight, Buzukja made a double-headed eagle gesture with his hands.

Why it matters:

• This is a nationalist Albanian symbol
• Swiss soccer stars Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri (both of Albanian heritage) used it in 2018 after beating Serbia
• It’s seen as provocative in Belgrade — like waving a rival team’s flag in their stadium
• He posted it proudly on Instagram afterward

IMPORTANT POINT: Sports and politics often mix in the Balkans. This gesture isn’t just "celebrating" — it’s a message. The crowd noticed.

What’s at Stake for Buzukja?

This is basically do-or-die for him:

1. He’s lost 4 of 5 UFC fights
2. Another loss = likely cut from the UFC roster (fired)
3. Fighting in enemy territory adds pressure
4. Grad (his opponent) is tough — 15-4 with momentum

How to Watch Saturday

Summary: What You Need to Know

• Weigh-ins done — everyone made weight, no drama on the scale
• Serbian fighters ready — all passed with smiles
• One controversy — Buzukja’s political gesture lit up social media
• Main event confirmed — Saturday at Belgrade Arena
• Can’t go? Follow B92.sport live blog for every punch

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What does "making weight" mean?

Fighters agree to fight at a specific weight limit (like 155 lbs). The day before the fight, they step on a scale. If they’re over, they have a few hours to cut more weight — or they lose part of their pay and the fight might be cancelled.

Why did only Buzukja take his shirt off?

Some fighters weigh in wearing underwear to be as light as possible. Most wear shorts. Buzukja used a towel — likely for the cameras, since he knew he’d make the gesture after.

What is the "double-headed eagle" gesture?

It’s the symbol on Albania’s flag. Making it with your hands (linking thumbs, spreading fingers) represents Albanian identity. In Serbia, it’s seen as a political provocation because of history between the nations.

Who is Bogdan Grad?

An Austrian fighter (15-4) with Serbian roots. He’s making his UFC debut Saturday. Beating Buzukja in Belgrade would be a dream start.

What happens if Buzukja loses?

The UFC usually cuts fighters who go 1-5 or 0-3 in the organization. At 1-5, a loss Saturday almost certainly means his UFC career ends.

Bottom line: The fights are set. The stage is ready. Belgrade gets its first UFC event Saturday — and the drama has already started!