Choi Seung-woo Faces Kevin Vallejos at UFC Fight Night 254

LAS VEGAS – A pivotal featherweight contest will kick off the main card of UFC Fight Night 254 on Saturday, March 15. Veteran Choi Seung-woo (11-7 MMA, 4-6 UFC) will take on rising star Kevin Vallejos (14-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) at UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

Choi, fresh off a first-round stoppage loss to Steve Garcia last July, is looking to bounce back from a tough stretch where he has lost four of his last five fights. His last victory came in August 2023 when he secured a unanimous decision over Jaro Errens, which ended a three-fight losing streak.

“I need this win to keep my UFC career alive,” Choi stated, emphasizing the pressure he feels going into this matchup. “I’ve been working hard to adjust my game and not let my aggressive nature compromise my strategy.”

Conversely, Vallejos enters this fight with momentum, following an impressive first-round TKO victory over Cam Teague in Dana White’s Contender Series last September. This match marks his UFC debut after building a reputation for his striking skills in South America.

“I’m excited to showcase my skills on such a big stage. I’ve prepared thoroughly for Choi, and I believe my boxing can lead me to victory,” Vallejos remarked before the fight.

Vallejos has quickly become a fan favorite, and oddsmakers have made him a favorite in the fight, with a line of Vallejos -590 and Choi +410 as of Friday. The expectations for Vallejos are high, with many analysts predicting he could secure a knockout in the later rounds.

“Choi has more experience, but I feel confident in my abilities. I know he’s an aggressive fighter and I’m ready to take the fight to him,” Vallejos added.

Details about the event indicate that the preliminary card will start at 9 p.m. GMT, followed by the main card at 12 a.m. (Sunday) UK time or 4 p.m. ET and 1 p.m. PT on Saturday in the U.S. Fans can watch the event through ESPN+ in the U.S. and on TNT Sports in the UK.

The fighters are expected to make their walk to the cage around 7:10 p.m. ET. With both fighters bringing contrasting styles and critical stakes, fans can expect an electrifying opening to the UFC Fight Night 254 main card.