UFC Vegas 102: Cannonier Faces Rodrigues in a Battle of Strategy and Power

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the Ultimate Fighting Championship returns to the UFC Apex for UFC Vegas 102, highlighted by a middleweight main event featuring former title challenger Jared Cannonier against Gregory Rodrigues. The fight card showcases a blend of veteran experience and rising talent across its six-bout lineup.

In the headliner, Cannonier (17-8) aims to avoid a third consecutive loss against the up-and-coming Rodrigues (16-5), who is looking to break into the UFC’s top middleweight ranks. Cannonier’s career trajectory shifted significantly after he challenged Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight title in July 2022. Now, he faces a daunting challenge as he looks to recover from setbacks against Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho.

“I still see a lot of the same fighter who scraped his way to a title shot,” said Cannonier during a press conference. However, he expressed concerns over his recent performance trends. “With age and wear, it becomes crucial to show that I can still compete at the highest level.”

Rodrigues, known as “Robo Cop,” has earned acclaim for his striking and grappling skills, making him a dangerous opponent. The Brazilian fighter is currently on a three-fight win streak, positioning him as a serious contender capable of capitalizing on Cannonier’s vulnerabilities. Rodrigues recently noted, “This is my chance to prove that I belong amongst the top fighters in the division. I’m coming in ready to grapple and strike.”

The co-main event features a high-stakes featherweight bout between Calvin Kattar (17-6) and Youssef Zalal (11-4). Kattar, a seasoned veteran, seeks to rebound from a three-fight losing streak, while Zalal looks to maintain his momentum after finishing all his fights since rejoining the UFC last year.

Zalal, who has shown exceptional grappling and finishing skills, expressed confidence ahead of the bout: “I’ve matured in this division. Kattar is a tough opponent, but I’m feeling like a contender ready to make waves.”

The preliminary card includes notable matchups, including women’s strawweight fighters Angela Hill (12-14) and Ketlen Souza (15-4) squaring off in a pivotal clash. Hill, who has gained a reputation as a gatekeeper in the division, offers extensive experience against Souza, who seeks to capitalize on her momentum from a recent breakout victory.

Hill remarked, “Every fight is critical. I’m here to continue proving my worth and fighting for my position.” Souza countered, “I’m confident in my skills and ready to take on the challenge.”

Other key preliminary bouts include bantamweight prospects Vince Morales (11-6) against Elijah Smith (8-2) and a welterweight affair highlighting Gabriel Bonfim (14-1) versus Khaos Williams (14-3), both showcasing fighters eager to establish their standing within the UFC ranks.

UFC Vegas 102 will broadcast live on ESPN+, with the preliminary fights commencing at 4 PM ET and the main card starting at 7 PM ET. As fight night approaches, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an exhilarating event.