UFC Fight Night: Thrilling Preliminary Card Matches
A series of changes leading up to fight night resulted in a compact four-fight preliminary card. However, the entertainment value remained high, showcasing fighter resilience and exciting showdowns.
The fight card kicked off with an exhilarating bout between Alice Ardelean and Rayane dos Santos. The fighters engaged in a fierce exchange for 15 minutes, with Ardelean ultimately securing a victory on the judges' scorecards. Both women were eager to claim their first win in the UFC, and their competitive spirit set the tone for the event.
Next up was a competitive match featuring Bolaji Oki against Michael Aswell. Oki, a graduate from Dana White’s Contender Series, displayed his power as the fight progressed, distancing himself from his opponent. Despite Aswell’s commendable late-round efforts, he struggled with the challenges of taking this fight on short notice and at a higher weight division.
The preliminary action intensified further with Jordan Leavitt returning to the Octagon after an 18-month hiatus. He submitted veteran Kurt Holobaugh in under two minutes, demonstrating a aggressive grappling style that left little room for Holobaugh to recover.
Finally, the last preliminary bout showcased Brazilian flyweights Jafel Filho and Allan Nascimento. This encounter became a strategic flurry resembling a chess match as both fighters exchanged dominance. Filho controlled the opening round, managing to place Nascimento on the canvas and chase submission attempts. However, Nascimento turned the tide in the second half of the bout by gaining top position, ultimately edging out a victory when the scorecards were revealed.
Detailed Fight Breakdown
- Alice Ardelean vs. Rayane dos Santos - Ardelean found success landing significant strikes throughout the fight, showcasing her durability and effectiveness in the exchanges. In a final surge, dos Santos attempted to rally but fell short.
- Bolaji Oki vs. Michael Aswell - Oki slowly built a commanding lead thanks to his physicality and striking power, earning a unanimous decision after demonstrating effective control throughout.
- Jordan Leavitt vs. Kurt Holobaugh - Leavitt showcased his grappling prowess, finishing the fight very quickly, signaling his readiness to climb the ranks in the division.
- Jafel Filho vs. Allan Nascimento - This clash was a tactical affair, but ultimately Nascimento's resilience and adaptability earned him a decision win, marking his third consecutive victory.
With an exciting commencement to the night, anticipation builds for the upcoming main card of UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Barber. Be sure not to miss any of the action live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 31, 2025. The prelims start at 6 PM ET, followed by the main card at 9 PM ET.
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