UFC Returns to Apex with Flyweight Headliner

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to return to its Apex venue in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday, October 12, 2024. This event will feature a Flyweight matchup as the main attraction, anticipated to be a standout within the division.

The main event will see Tatsuro Taira face former title challenger Brandon Royval. Taira could potentially earn a title shot with a victory, while Royval seeks a third opportunity to challenge current Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja. The fight will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Other bouts on the card promise to deliver action-packed performances, featuring fighters with distinct styles and compelling backstories.

In the co-headliner, Lightweight standouts Grant Dawson and Rafa Garcia are set to compete. Dawson, looking to bounce back from a defeat by Bobby Green, holds a UFC record of 9-1-1. Garcia, a wrestle-boxer with a .500 record in the octagon, looks to prove himself against the highly rated Dawson.

A range of other matches include Brad Tavares, an adept striker and longtime UFC veteran, taking on the South Korean Joona Park. Both fighters lost their last bouts and aim for redemption. The matchup promises a striking contest, with Park expected to push the pace against Tavares, known for his exceptional takedown defense and effective low kicks.

A Women’s Strawweight fight will see Cory McKenna clash with Bruna Polastri. McKenna, known for her aggressive style and grappling proficiency, will face Polastri, stepping in on short notice due to an injury to Polyana Viana. This matchup is likely to be determined by wrestling competency.

In another welterweight bout, Daniel Rodriguez will fight Alex Morono. Rodriguez seeks to break a three-fight losing streak, whereas Morono, known for his resilience and striking power, aims to capitalize with a comeback win. Rodriguez’s sharp counter punching and solid takedown defense could prove crucial.

Meanwhile, Abdul Razak Alhassan will confront Jamie Fremd. Alhassan, despite being 39, remains dangerous with his striking power, whereas Fremd seeks to establish his own path after a rocky start in the UFC.

This lineup promises to deliver an exhilarating night of competition, accentuated by a featherweight bout altered due to Hurricane Milton. Chris Barnett has been replaced by Sean Sharaf, an undefeated fighter making his debut following Barnett’s withdrawal.