Ali Akbar RosadyAll 26 competitors slated for Saturday’s UFC Vegas 116 fight card successfully completed their official weigh-ins on Friday morning, clearing the final hurdle before their respective bouts. The procedural event, a mandatory step for all professional mixed martial artists, saw fighters meet their contracted weight limits, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the upcoming contests. A live stream of the morning weigh-ins was provided courtesy of Ag. Fight, offering fans an early look at the athletes before they step into the Octagon.
Headlining the event, top bantamweight contender Aljamain Sterling (20-3 MMA, 12-3 UFC) and rising featherweight Youssef Zalal (10-4 MMA, 3-2 UFC) both successfully made weight for their featherweight non-title main event. Sterling, typically a force in the 135-pound division, registered precisely 146 pounds, meeting the stipulated limit for the featherweight contest. This marks a rare venture up a weight class for "Funk Master," a move that has generated significant discussion regarding its implications for his bantamweight title aspirations. Sterling, known for his elite grappling, dynamic striking, and unconventional submissions, enters this bout following a dominant stretch in the bantamweight division, having secured five consecutive victories. His recent triumphs include a first-round submission victory over Cory Sandhagen at UFC 250, a performance that cemented his status as a prime contender for the bantamweight championship. Prior to that, he showcased his versatility with decision wins over Pedro Munhoz and Jimmie Rivera, demonstrating his ability to control fights on the feet and on the ground. His foray into featherweight for this non-title bout is seen by some as an opportunity to stay active and test his skills against a larger opponent without risking his standing in his natural weight class.
Opposite him, Youssef Zalal weighed in at a lean 145.5 pounds, comfortably within the featherweight limit. Zalal, a Moroccan-American fighter based out of Colorado, has been steadily building his resume in the UFC, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that combines sharp striking with opportunistic grappling. While less experienced at the highest level than Sterling, Zalal’s record reflects a fighter capable of finishing opponents, with a notable TKO victory over Peter Barrett and a submission win over Jordan Griffin in recent outings. This main event represents a significant opportunity for Zalal to elevate his profile dramatically, facing one of the most highly-ranked fighters in a neighboring division. A victory over Sterling, even in a non-bantamweight contest, would undoubtedly propel him into the spotlight and position him for bigger fights within the featherweight landscape. The clash of Sterling’s high-level wrestling and submission game against Zalal’s more diverse, yet developing, arsenal promises an intriguing strategic battle.
The co-main event of UFC Vegas 116 features a bantamweight non-title bout between Norma Dumont (9-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC) and Joselyne Edwards (13-5 MMA, 4-3 UFC), both of whom also successfully made their contractual weight of no more than 136 pounds. Dumont, a Brazilian fighter known for her strong physical presence and powerful striking, has steadily climbed the ranks in the women’s featherweight and bantamweight divisions. Her recent form includes notable victories over Aspen Ladd and Karol Rosa, demonstrating her capability to dictate the pace of a fight and land significant strikes. Her move back to bantamweight for this contest could indicate a more permanent stay in the division or a strategic choice for this specific matchup. Joselyne Edwards, hailing from Panama, brings an aggressive, high-volume striking approach to the cage. "La Pantera" has earned a reputation for exciting fights, often engaging in stand-up exchanges and demonstrating resilience. Her recent performances include a decision win over Lucie Pudilová, showcasing her ability to go the distance and maintain a high output. This co-main event is critical for both fighters as they aim to establish themselves as consistent threats in the competitive women’s bantamweight division, with the winner potentially eyeing a ranked opponent in their next outing.
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The official weigh-ins commenced at 12 p.m. ET, with all athletes demonstrating their adherence to the strict professional standards of the sport. While video coverage was specifically highlighted for the top two fights, the smooth execution of the entire weigh-in process underscored the professionalism of all participants.
Beyond the main and co-main events, the UFC Vegas 116 card features a series of compelling matchups across various weight classes, with several fighters drawing attention for their records and potential.
On the main card, set to air on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET, a lightweight clash pits Rafa Garcia (14-3 MMA, 2-3 UFC) against Alexander Hernandez (14-6 MMA, 6-5 UFC). Garcia, who weighed in at 155 pounds, is looking to build momentum after a hard-fought decision victory in his last outing, known for his relentless pressure and grappling. Hernandez, a dynamic striker with considerable power, aims to rebound and climb back into contention in the stacked lightweight division. His explosive style often leads to exciting finishes, making this a highly anticipated contest.
Further down the main card, Davey Grant (15-6 MMA, 5-5 UFC) registered 135.5 pounds for his bantamweight bout against Adrian Luna Martinetti (10-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC). Grant, a veteran known for his durability and well-rounded game, has been involved in several "Fight of the Night" contenders. Martinetti, seeking his first UFC victory, will look to showcase the skills that earned him a spot on the roster.
A intriguing bantamweight matchup sees Montel Jackson (12-4 MMA, 6-2 UFC) taking on Raoni Barcelos (17-4 MMA, 6-3 UFC), with Barcelos making weight at 136 pounds. Jackson, a powerful wrestler with strong striking, aims to continue his ascent in the division. Barcelos, a highly skilled Brazilian with a strong jiu-jitsu background and dangerous striking, is considered one of the most underrated fighters in the bantamweight class, often delivering high-level performances.
Perhaps one of the most unusual pairings on the card, Marcus Buchecha (4-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is listed against Ryan Spann (21-8 MMA, 7-3 UFC). While no weight was provided in the initial results for this specific bout, it suggests a significant clash of styles and potentially a catchweight or open-weight contest given their respective backgrounds. Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida is a legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with numerous world titles, who has successfully transitioned to MMA in other organizations, typically competing at heavyweight. Ryan Spann, on the other hand, is a seasoned light heavyweight contender in the UFC, known for his powerful striking and submission skills. The inclusion of "Buchecha" in a UFC event would mark a major crossover, adding an element of unpredictability to the card. Assuming both successfully met their contractual obligations, this fight promises a unique spectacle.
The preliminary card, also available on Paramount+ starting at 5 p.m. ET, features several compelling matchups. Middleweight Rodolfo Vieira (9-2 MMA, 4-2 UFC), a decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion, weighed in at 185.5 pounds for his fight against Eric McConico (6-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC). Vieira’s submission prowess is widely recognized, and he will look to impose his grappling game.
Another middleweight contest pits Sedriques Dumas (8-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) (184 lbs) against Jackson McVey (11-6 MMA, 0-0 UFC) (185 lbs). Both fighters successfully made weight, setting the stage for a competitive bout.
Mayra Bueno Silva (10-2-1 MMA, 5-2-1 UFC) is slated to face Michelle Montague (8-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) in a women’s bantamweight bout, with both fighters meeting their weight requirements.
Bantamweight action continues with Jafel Filho (15-5 MMA, 0-2 UFC) and Cody Durden (15-5-1 MMA, 4-3-1 UFC) both making weight at 135.5 pounds. This promises to be a fast-paced encounter between two durable fighters.
Featherweights Francis Marshall (7-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) and Lucas Brennan (8-0 MMA, 5-0 Bellator, 0-0 UFC) also successfully weighed in at 155.5 pounds, indicating a catchweight or a lightweight contest given the featherweight classification. Brennan’s inclusion would mark his UFC debut after an undefeated run in Bellator, adding another layer of intrigue.
In a welterweight bout, veteran Max Griffin (19-9 MMA, 7-7 UFC) hit 170.5 pounds for his fight against Victor Valenzuela (9-3 MMA, 0-0 UFC). Griffin, known for his aggressive striking and willingness to engage, will look to stifle the debut efforts of Valenzuela.
Finally, the card is rounded out by a women’s strawweight contest between Talita Alencar (4-0-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) and Julia Polastri (11-4 MMA, 0-1 UFC). Both fighters made their contractual weight, setting the stage for an exciting opening to the event.
With all fighters having successfully navigated the weigh-in process, the stage is now set for UFC Vegas 116 to unfold. The card, featuring a mix of seasoned veterans, rising prospects, and intriguing stylistic matchups, is poised to deliver a night of compelling mixed martial arts action from the UFC Apex.
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