Ponzinibbio vs. Harris: UFC Fight Night 249 Co-Main Event Preview

Santiago Ponzinibbio and Carlston Harris will clash in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 249 on Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The welterweight bout comes at a critical juncture for both fighters, with Ponzinibbio seeking to end a two-fight skid and Harris aiming to rebound from a recent knockout loss.

Ponzinibbio (29-8 MMA, 11-7 UFC), known as the “Argentine Dagger,” has struggled since 2021, posting a 2-5 record. His recent losses include a stoppage defeat to Kevin Holland in April 2023 and a split decision loss to Muslim Salikhov in July 2024. Despite his recent setbacks, Ponzinibbio remains a formidable opponent, with a reputation for being difficult to take down and control.

Harris (19-6 MMA, 4-2 UFC), on the other hand, has enjoyed a more successful run since 2021, compiling a 5-2 record. However, he enters this fight following a first-round knockout loss to Khaos Williams in May 2024. Harris, a skilled grappler, will look to leverage his wrestling advantage in the smaller octagon at the UFC Apex.

Analyst Dan Tom of MMA Junkie predicts a competitive fight, noting that both fighters are of similar age and skill level. “Harris is the more skilled and willing grappler on paper, which should serve him well inside the smaller octagon,” Tom said. “But Ponzinibbio, even at this advanced stage of his career, has never been easy to take down, much less control.”

Ponzinibbio has also reportedly returned to full health following a life-threatening health scare in 2019, which could play a factor in his performance. Tom believes the fight could go the distance, with Ponzinibbio edging out a split decision victory.

Oddsmakers initially listed Ponzinibbio as a slight underdog, but public betting has shifted the line in his favor. As of now, Ponzinibbio is listed at -138, while Harris sits at +112 on FanDuel.

The co-main event is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:10 p.m. ET and will stream live on ESPN+. Fans can visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for additional coverage and updates on the card.