The UFC Apex in Las Vegas was the stage for an unforgettable night of MMA action on February 15, 2025, headlined by Jared Cannonier’s spectacular knockout victory over Gregory Rodrigues. The event, featuring 12 intense bouts streamed live on ESPN+, delivered a mix of explosive finishes and gritty decisions that left fans buzzing.
Main Event: Cannonier Stuns Rodrigues in Round 4
Jared Cannonier proved why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division, finishing Gregory Rodrigues with a brutal flurry of punches just 21 seconds into the fourth round. After three competitive rounds, Cannonier seized the moment when Rodrigues dropped his guard, unleashing a series of precise strikes that brought the fight to a dramatic end. This win cements Cannonier’s status as a top-tier contender.
Co-Main Event: Zalal Shocks Kattar
Youssef Zalal pulled off a major upset, outpointing seasoned fighter Calvin Kattar via unanimous decision. Zalal’s speed, movement, and well-timed counters impressed the judges, marking a pivotal moment in his featherweight journey.
Main Card Breakdown
Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Dylan Budka (185 Lbs): Shahbazyan made a statement with a first-round knockout, landing a crushing right hook at 1:35 to reaffirm his place as a rising middleweight talent.
Nazim Sadykhov vs. Ismael Bonfim (155 Lbs): Sadykhov’s aggressive approach led to a doctor’s stoppage after the first round due to Bonfim’s visible damage.
Andre Petroski vs. Rodolfo Vieira (185 Lbs): Petroski’s wrestling and control on the ground earned him a clear unanimous decision over the Brazilian jiu-jitsu ace.
Preliminary Card Highlights
Jose Delgado vs. Connor Matthews (145 Lbs): Delgado scored a first-round KO/TKO with a devastating overhand right and follow-up ground strikes at 2:58.
Angela Hill vs. Ketlen Souza (115 Lbs): Hill narrowly edged out Souza in a hard-fought split decision.
Rafael Estevam vs. Jesus Aguilar (125 Lbs): Estevam’s sharp striking and control earned him a unanimous decision win.
Gabriel Bonfim vs. Khaos Williams (170 Lbs): Bonfim locked in a D’arce choke at 4:58 of the second round, forcing Williams to tap.
Elijah Smith vs. Vince Morales (135 Lbs): Smith dominated from start to finish, securing a unanimous decision.
Valter Walker vs. Don’Tale Mayes (265 Lbs): Walker showcased his grappling skills with a quick heel hook submission at 1:17 of the first round.
Jacqueline Cavalcanti vs. Julia Avila (135 Lbs): Cavalcanti’s superior striking and control earned her a unanimous decision victory.
UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Rodrigues delivered an action-packed evening, featuring standout performances and rising stars making their mark. Stay tuned for more UFC news, in-depth fight analysis, and exclusive updates!