UFC Set for Exciting Month of High-Stakes Matchups in May 2025

DES MOINES, Iowa — The UFC is gearing up for an action-packed May 2025, filled with critical matchups and title defenses that could shape the upcoming months in mixed martial arts. The month kicks off with a highly anticipated fight night on May 3 in Des Moines, leading to the UFC 315 pay-per-view event in Montreal on May 10.

Headlining the first event, Cory Sandhagen faces Deiveson Figueiredo in a bantamweight showdown that carries significance in the title chase. Both fighters are eager to assert their positions in the division after previous challenges. Sandhagen, currently ranked No. 4, seeks to demonstrate his elite status, while Figueiredo aims to bounce back after a recent setback against Petr Yan.

Meanwhile, the co-main event will witness a compelling clash between middleweights Reinier de Ridder and Bo Nickal. Both fighters boast impressive early records in the UFC, making this bout crucial as Nickal looks to establish himself as a formidable contender.

At UFC 315, the spotlight will shine on two title fights, with Belal Muhammad defending his welterweight championship against Jack Della Maddalena. Muhammad, unbeaten in 11 fights, aims to solidify his place at the top. Della Maddalena, on a 17-fight winning streak, presents a tough challenge for the champion.

Additionally, Valentina Shevchenko will defend her flyweight title against No. 1 contender Manon Fiorot. Shevchenko, a former champion, looks to reclaim dominance, while Fiorot seeks to make history as the first French champion.

As for Jessica Andrade and Jasmine Jasudavicius, they will battle in a flyweight pairing that is pivotal for both competitors’ rankings. Andrade, a veteran with a storied career in the UFC, faces an up-and-coming Jasudavicius, who has shown impressive growth since her debut.

UFC is also expected to showcase other thrilling matchups, including Benoit Saint Denis against Joel Alvarez and José Aldo facing Aiemann Zahabi. Both bouts promise to excite fans and add intriguing stories to the promotion’s narrative.

With two events this month, including the UFC Apex schedule, fans can anticipate a dynamic series of fights that will not only entertain but may also shift the power dynamics within various divisions.

The UFC 315 event marks a return for the promotion to Montreal after over a decade, making it a historic weekend for fight fans. Will the established veterans maintain their status, or will the rising stars seize the spotlight? Time will tell.