Get ready for an epic conclusion to the UFC's 2025 campaign! This weekend, we're not just witnessing the final fight card of the year, but also a historic moment as the promotion gears up for its debut on Paramount+ in January. But before we bid farewell to 2025, let's dive into the thrilling lineup at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas.
The Main Event: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
In a highly anticipated showdown, flyweight stars Brandon Royval and Manel Kape will face off for the third time this year. With two previous clashes delayed, this bout promises to be an electrifying way to end the year. Royval, the 33-year-old 'Raw Dawg' from Colorado, aims to reaffirm his status as a top talent in the 125-pound division after a close loss to Joshua Van at UFC 317. On the other hand, Kape, known as 'Starboy,' has his eyes set on a championship opportunity in 2026, having earned back-to-back stoppage wins. This main event is a must-watch as these contenders battle it out in the Octagon.
Additional Main Card Showdowns
- Giga Chikadze vs. Kevin Vallejos: It's a battle between the old guard and the new in the featherweight division. Giga Chikadze, a rankings mainstay, takes on Kevin Vallejos, one of the most hyped members of the Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS) Class of '24. Can Chikadze turn back the rising rookie, or will Vallejos end his rookie campaign with a bang?
- Cesar Almeida vs. Cezary Oleksiejczuk: Two middleweight DWCS graduates collide. Cesar Almeida, a seasoned veteran, faces Cezary Oleksiejczuk, the young Polish debutant. With a 12-year age difference, this fight promises an intriguing mix of experience and youth. Who will emerge victorious and secure a place in the rankings?
- Melquizael Costa vs. Morgan Charriere: Ascending featherweights Melquizael Costa and Morgan Charriere bring their entertaining styles to the Octagon. Both fighters are known for their exciting performances, with Costa showcasing a well-rounded game and Charriere packing speed and power. A win for either could lead to a ranked opponent in their next bout.
- Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Marcus Buchecha: In a heavyweight clash, Kennedy Nzechukwu and Marcus Buchecha look to bounce back from recent disappointments. Nzechukwu, a DWCS alum, aims to regain momentum after falling victim to a heel hook, while Buchecha, a 15-time world champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, seeks to make a statement in his UFC debut.
Preliminary Card Pairings
- Amanda Lemos vs. Gillian Robertson: Top 10 strawweights Amanda Lemos and Gillian Robertson face off in a battle of finishers. Lemos, who has alternated wins and losses since her title challenge, takes on Robertson, who has been on a four-fight winning streak. Who will defend their place in the rankings?
- Joanderson Brito vs. Melsik Baghdasaryan: Dana White's Contender Series alums Joanderson Brito and Melsik Baghdasaryan clash in a featherweight bout. Brito, looking to regain his footing after consecutive losses, takes on Baghdasaryan, who has been limited to just a few appearances. Who will emerge victorious and secure a spot in the rankings?
- Neil Magny vs. Yaroslav Amosov: Divisional mainstay Neil Magny welcomes Yaroslav Amosov, a former Bellator champion, to the UFC welterweight ranks. Magny, on a two-fight winning streak, faces a tough challenge against Amosov, who has a combat sambo base and an impressive record. This preliminary card matchup is a must-watch for any MMA fan.
- Sean Sharaf vs. Steven Asplund: In the second heavyweight tilt, Sean Sharaf, making his sophomore appearance, takes on Steven Asplund, a recent DWCS graduate. Sharaf, who debuted last year, aims to prove himself against the 27-year-old Asplund, who has an impressive winning streak.
- Melissa Croden vs. Luana Santos: Melissa Croden and Luana Santos, both with impressive finishing records, face off in a bantamweight battle. Croden, making her promotional debut, takes on Santos, who is ranked 15th in the division. Who will emerge victorious and continue their winning ways?
- Allen Frye Jr. vs. Guilherme Pat: It's a heavyweight showdown between two undefeated debutants. Allen Frye Jr., a protégé of UFC veteran Derek Brunson, takes on Guilherme Pat, who has an impressive record with four finishes. Who will claim victory in this early-night battle?
- Jamey-Lyn Horth vs. Tereza Bleda: The action kicks off in the flyweight division with Jamey-Lyn Horth facing Tereza Bleda. Both fighters are looking to make a statement in their respective careers.
Don't miss UFC Fight Night: Royval vs. Kape, live from the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, on December 13, 2025. Prelims start at 7 pm ET/4 pm PT, followed by the main card at 10 pm ET/7 pm PT. This event promises to be an action-packed conclusion to the year, so mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable night of fights!
And here's the part most people miss... What if the outcome of these fights doesn't just depend on the fighters' skills but also on the strategies and tactics employed by their coaches? Who do you think will come out on top, and what impact will their coaching have? Let's discuss in the comments!
