This weekend, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, UFC returns to the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a thrilling fight card headlined by a vital flyweight bout between the former title challenger Alex Perez and the undefeated prodigy Tatsuro Taira. As the anticipation builds, fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+.
Main Event: Alex Perez vs. Tatsuro Taira
Alex Perez, after a challenging 20-month hiatus, showcased resilience by rebounding from a loss with a knockout victory over Matheus Nicolau, marking his first win since 2020. His opponent, Tatsuro Taira, continues his impressive undefeated streak with 12-0, including three consecutive victories in his sophomore year. This match is crucial as both fighters vie to solidify their positions as top contenders in the flyweight division.
Co-Main Event: Ikram Aliskerov vs. Antonio Trocoli
The co-main event pits Ikram Aliskerov against Antonio Trocoli in a middleweight clash. Aliskerov, a former Combat Sambo world champion and a standout from Dana White’s Contender Series, aims to maintain his momentum against Trocoli, who steps in as a last-minute replacement hoping to make a significant impact in his UFC debut.
Additional Main Card Highlights
Timmy Cuamba vs. Lucas Almeida: This lightweight bout features two dynamic strikers known for their aggressive fighting styles, promising an action-packed encounter.
Douglas Silva de Andrade vs. Miles Johns: In this bantamweight fight, veteran Andrade seeks to continue his successful return to the 135-pound category against Johns, who is looking to extend his winning streak and rise through the ranks.
Asu Almabayev vs. Jose Johnson: Flyweights Almabayev and Johnson face off in a critical bout where Almabayev aims to extend his winning streak and Johnson seeks a career-defining victory.
Brady Hiestand vs. Garrett Armfield: Opening the main card, these promising bantamweights clash, with each fighter looking to prove they are ready to take the next step in their careers.
Preliminary Card Showdowns
Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Joshua Van: Ulanbekov, a top contender in the flyweight division, faces Van in a match that could propel the winner to new heights.
Jimmy Flick vs. Nate Maness: Both flyweights are known for their finishing abilities and will look to impress in a potentially explosive bout.
Josh Quinlan vs. Adam Fugitt: Expect fireworks as these welterweights, known for their striking prowess, collide.
Carli Judice vs. Gabriella Fernandes: Flyweights Judice and Fernandes both aim to rebound from recent setbacks and establish themselves as contenders.
Jeka Saragih vs. Westin Wilson: Featherweights Saragih and Wilson are eager to prove their worth, with Saragih looking to build on his recent upset victory.
Josefine Knutsson vs. Julia Polastri: In this strawweight matchup, both fighters seek to leverage their recent successes to climb the rankings.
Melquizael Costa vs. Shayilan Nuerdanbieke: The evening kicks off with this featherweight bout, setting the tone for a night of intense matchups.
Join us for a captivating evening at UFC Fight Night: Perez vs. Taira, starting with prelims at 7 PM ET followed by the main card at 10 PM ET.