Get ready for an epic night of UFC action as we bid farewell to the ESPN era and welcome the Paramount era! UFC Vegas 112 promises to be a thrilling event, with a stacked card featuring some highly anticipated matchups. Let's dive into the predictions and uncover the potential outcomes of these exciting fights.
The End of an Era, A New Beginning
The UFC's final dance with ESPN might not go out with a bang, but it certainly has the potential to leave a lasting impression. The main event of the evening showcases a highly anticipated flyweight clash between Brandon Royval and Manel Kape. These two hungry contenders have been eyeing each other for a while, and their encounter is sure to deliver an explosive performance.
A Diverse Card, A Feast for the Eyes
The rest of the card offers a delightful smorgasbord of fights, catering to every MMA fan's taste. In the co-main event, veteran featherweight Giga Chikadze takes on the fast-rising prospect Kevin Vallejos. Meanwhile, grappling ace Marcus Buchecha gets a second chance to make a memorable first impression. King Green finds himself in an unexpected matchup, and Amanda Lemos and Gillian Robertson battle it out in a preliminary bout that could determine the next strawweight champion contender. Additionally, UFC veteran Neil Magny faces off against former Bellator welterweight champion Yaroslav Amosov in a hidden gem of a fight buried in the prelims.
Heavyweight Battles and a Run to Remember
And if that wasn't enough, we've got three heavyweight fights on the card! It's safe to say that this event marks the end of a memorable run for the UFC and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
UFC Vegas 112: The Breakdown
Event: UFC Vegas 112
Location: UFC APEX, Las Vegas
Date: Saturday, December 13th
Preliminary Card: 7 PM ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+
Main Card: 10 PM ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+
Now, let's break down the predictions for each fight:
Brandon Royval (3) vs. Manel Kape (6):
I'm putting my faith in Manel Kape for this one. Despite my initial skepticism when he joined from RIZIN, Kape's striking brilliance and cage charisma are hard to ignore. He possesses knockout power that sets him apart from most 125ers. However, Kape has a history of being his own worst enemy, and that could resurface on Saturday. Kape must avoid being overly patient and giving away rounds to Royval, who will be aggressive from the get-go. Kape thrives when his opponents bring the action, but he needs to control his tendency to play around in the cage. If he can force Royval into a clash, Kape's precision strikes will shine, and he might just earn that title shot sooner than expected.
Pick: Kape
Giga Chikadze vs. Kevin Vallejos:
Giga Chikadze, if you're being set up as a stepping stone, losing to Kevin Vallejos might not be the worst outcome. "El Chino" is a young talent with all the makings of a future champion, and adding Chikadze's name to his résumé would be a significant boost. On the feet, Chikadze can make any fight competitive with his outstanding technical skills. However, Vallejos will come out fast, and Chikadze must react swiftly to avoid drowning in the onslaught. This fight is a perfect test for Vallejos, and an impressive performance will solidify his hype. I predict Vallejos will find the finishing touch that Chikadze's recent opponents lacked, earning him a knockout victory and a well-deserved ranking.
Pick: Vallejos
Cesar Almeida vs. Cezary Oleksiejczuk:
Matchmakers are hoping for a finish in this fight to spice up the main card, and I believe Almeida and Oleksiejczuk will deliver. Oleksiejczuk, a fun prospect from the Contender Series, has impressive boxing skills and a good reach advantage. Almeida, known for his precision shots, will find it challenging to walk down Oleksiejczuk. Inactivity could cost Almeida if the fight goes to the judges, but I'm predicting a finish. Oleksiejczuk has the potential to test Almeida's chin, and if he consistently beats him to the punch, a knockout victory is within reach.
Pick: Oleksiejczuk
Melquizael Costa vs. Morgan Charriere:
What a fantastic featherweight showdown to close out the division for 2025! Melquizael Costa has quietly amassed an impressive streak, knocking off tough opponents like Julian Erosa and Andre Fili. Morgan Charriere, on the other hand, has earned Performance of the Night bonuses and a Fight of the Night award. This fight is a true test of Charriere's consistency. Costa's ability to mix up his game should give him the edge in a close fight. I predict Costa will record takedowns and threaten enough on the ground to secure a decision victory.
Pick: Costa
Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Marcus Buchecha:
This fight could be a crucial turning point for Marcus Buchecha. His UFC debut ended in a decision loss, but I believe he'll bounce back strongly. Buchecha should not only take Nzechukwu to the ground but also utilize his superior positions effectively this time. If he can't submit Nzechukwu early, it might get ugly. Nzechukwu is a formidable opponent, but Buchecha's grappling skills could be the difference. I'm going with a first-round submission victory for Buchecha.
Pick: Buchecha
King Green vs. Lance Gibson Jr.:
This matchup is a curveball, to say the least! King Green, with 51 pro fights under his belt, faces Lance Gibson Jr., who has only 10 pro fights. Gibson is a well-rounded lightweight with good cardio, but Green's seasoned striking could be a tough challenge. Even at 39, Green remains a dangerous force at 155 pounds. I struggle to see how Gibson can overcome the experience gap. While Gibson has a bright future in the UFC, I'm picking the veteran here.
Pick: Green
Other Fights:
- Gillian Robertson (10) def. Amanda Lemos (5)
- Joanderson Brito def. Isaac Thomson
- Neil Magny def. Yaroslav Amosov (15)
- Steven Asplund def. Sean Sharaf
- Melissa Croden def. Luana Santos
- Allen Frye def. Guilherme Pat
- Jamey-Lyn Horth def. Tereza Bleda
Get ready for an action-packed night of UFC Vegas 112! Who do you think will come out on top in these thrilling matchups? Don't forget to share your predictions and join the discussion in the comments!
