UFC Fight Night 2025: Rising Stars Set to Shine in Las Vegas

The first UFC event of 2025 kicks off with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Headlined by strawweights Mackenzie Dern and Amanda Ribas, the Fight Night card also features several rising stars making their UFC debuts, including Jacobe Smith, Austin Bashi, Marco Tulio, and Bruno Silva, all of whom earned their contracts on Dana White's Contender Series in 2024.

Jacobe Smith, an undefeated welterweight with a 9-0 record, faces Preston Parsons in a highly anticipated matchup. Smith, a former collegiate wrestling standout, has shown versatility in his fighting style, transitioning from a wrestling-heavy approach to becoming a first-round finisher as a striker. Parsons, known for his relentless grappling, presents a solid test for Smith, who is a heavy betting favorite.

Austin Bashi, a 23-year-old featherweight with a perfect 13-0 record, takes on Christian Rodriguez, a tough opponent who has handed several fighters their first professional loss. Bashi, who showcased his fight IQ and physicality on the Contender Series, is confident in his ability to break Rodriguez. “My pace, my pressure, and my game is gonna break him,” Bashi said during a media availability in Las Vegas.

Marco Tulio, another Contender Series standout, makes his UFC debut against Ihor Potieria. Tulio, who boasts a 12-1 record with eight knockouts, is looking to make an immediate impact in the middleweight division. Potieria, however, has struggled recently, going 1-4 in his last five UFC appearances.

The event also features undefeated fighters Nurullo Aliev and Magomed Gadzhiyasulov, both aiming to extend their perfect records. Aliev faces Joe Solecki, while Gadzhiyasulov takes on Bruno Lopes. Both fighters earned their UFC contracts through the Contender Series and are looking to make a statement in their respective divisions.

Saturday’s Fight Night card is stacked with talent, offering fans a glimpse of the future of the UFC. With a mix of established names and rising stars, the event promises to deliver excitement and highlight the next generation of UFC contenders.