Have you ever been in a situation where you eagerly anticipated having a good time-only but ended up having the most unforgettable experience? For moments like these, being part of a crowd witnessing a surprise performance by a great artist or being a stand-up comedian telling about it, is not only the most cherished experience but also an amazing trip down memory lane.
And that’s why UFC Fight Night events like the coming weekend’s UFC Fight Night 253 at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas are so magical. Before the event, we are sure that we will witness great fights but at the same time, there is always the possibility for something truly amazing to happen-a highlight-reel knockout, a jaw-dropping comeback, or a stunning performance that will make the MMA world talk for days.
With an appealing main event, new talents looking to grab their spot, and fights with the skills to explode, UFC Fight Night 253 already looks a must-see card. Next, we will analyze the matchups in more depth and check out the fights that might steal the show.
Table of Contents
Main Event: Manel Kape vs. Asu Almabayev
In the flyweight division, two top-rated combatants go to the battle with the thought of aiming for the championship. Manel Kape has been entered in the game after the notable third-round victory over Bruno Silva, and this awesome performance reminded everyone of the reasons he was a huge prospect upon his UFC arrival. With dynamic striking, knockout power, and an aggressive style, he hopes to be seen as a real title contender.
On the other hand, Asu Almabayev has been building a great fight record without any noise. The Kazakh standout is on a 17-fight win streak, including four straight UFC victories. His last fight with Matheus Nicolau displayed his quality as he was able to compete with the top tier and a victory over Kape could help him get in the title conversation. This fight is a significant one for the flyweight division, and with both fighters eager to make a statement, fireworks are guaranteed.
Other Main Card Matchups
Cody Brundage vs. Julian Marquez (Middleweight Co-Main Event)
Both middleweights come into the Octagon with their desire to prove themselves. Cody Brundage has been having quite a turbulent UFC career, all-or-nothing fighting style, which makes him an engaging yet unpredictable contender. Conversely, Julian Marquez fills in as an alternative and wants to put an end to the losing streak and renew his career. Given that both fighters excel in finishing fights, this fight will most definitely not go the distance because of it.
Nasrat Haqparast vs. Esteban Ribovics (Lightweight Bout)
Nasrat Haqparast is currently on a four-fight winning streak and is looking forward to a Top 15 ranking. His technical striking and resiliency make him a threat to any lightweight. In contrast, Esteban Ribovics, has built on his previous successes after two consecutive thrilling performances including a knockout of Terrance McKinney that was a highlight of his show. This conflict has all the signs of a stand-up fight that may become a sensation of the night.
Austen Lane vs. Mario Pinto (Heavyweight Bout)
Battles between big men almost always result in quick, violent finishes. Austen Lane, an ex- NFL player, clinched his first UFC victory by grinding out a decision over Robelis Despaigne who was a knockout specialist. In the end, MMA skills prove to be an unsuccessful defense in karate. He’ll be facing UFC newcomer Mario Pinto, an undefeated Portuguese prospect looking to make an immediate impact.
Hyder Amil vs. William Gomis (Featherweight Bout)
This visitation of aggression and patience is nothing less than art. Whereas Hyder Amil is a fighter who uses force and pressure to wear out his opponents and so does his opponent William Gomis, who with calculated strikes and prudent approach is a counter striker. These males, both featherweights, have intact winning records. Victory would be the goal of the one coming out of the fight with their hands up.
Ricardo Ramos vs. Chepe Mariscal (Featherweight Bout)
Renan Barao returns to the main card as the main event and will definitely make this show great. A dynamic Brazilian striker, Ricardo Ramos, recently won a split decision, and he is eager for more victories. Mariscal, currently 3-0 in his UFC career, has been on a run and he’s looking to rise even further. Be ready for the fast ride and the unpredictable challenging combinations when you watch this fight.
Preliminary Card Highlights
- Douglas Silva de Andrade vs. John Castaneda (Bantamweight Bout) – A veteran vs. rising contender matchup with potential for an explosive finish.
- Andrea Lee vs. JJ Aldrich (Flyweight Bout) – Two experienced flyweights trying to bounce back from recent setbacks.
- Danny Barlow vs. Sam Patterson (Welterweight Bout) – A battle of Dana White’s Contender Series alumni looking to prove themselves.
- Montana De La Rosa vs. Luana Carolina (Flyweight Bout) – A clash between two flyweights on different trajectories.
- Danny Silva vs. Lucas Almeida (Featherweight Bout) – A sleeper pick for Fight of the Night, with both fighters known for their aggressive styles.
- Charles Johnson vs. Ramazan Temirov (Flyweight Bout) – A veteran vs. prospect bout that kicks off the card with fireworks.
Even if UFC Fight Night 253 doesn’t break pay-per-view records, it is one of those events where something special might very well happen. Whether a fabulous knockdown, a powerful premier, or a secret war that no one noticed ranking in the classics list—I think this card will be a fantastic evening.
Considering the eventual importance of the last match in the main event and the expansion of the constellations of young athletes, we can say that the fans of this sport will be treated to a spectacle. Make sure to watch the show on ESPN+ and let your eyes stay open because the next unforgettable moment in the Octagon may suddenly happen.
Reddaveni Saisneha 
Aditya Khare