UFC Vegas 117: 2 newcomers step in last minute to save bouts on Allen vs. Costa fight card

2 min read
UFC Vegas 117: 2 newcomers step in last minute to save bouts on Allen vs. Costa fight card

UFC Vegas 117: 2 newcomers step in last minute to save bouts on Allen vs. Costa fight card

UFC Vegas 117 has undergone changes

UFC Vegas 117: 2 newcomers step in last minute to save bouts on Allen vs. Costa fight card

UFC Vegas 117 has undergone changes

The UFC Vegas 117 fight card just got a last-minute shakeup, but don't worry—two newcomers have stepped up to save the show. Scheduled for Saturday at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, the event still features 13 bouts, headlined by a featherweight clash between Arnold Allen and Melquizael Costa. With fighters dropping out due to injuries, these replacements are bringing fresh energy and undefeated momentum to the octagon.

In a 215-pound catchweight bout, Bellator veteran Christian Edwards makes his UFC debut after stepping in for Rodolfo Bellato. Edwards, known as "Pain," carries an 8-4 pro record and has been on a roll lately, winning three of his last four fights—including a victory over UFC vet Jake Collier. He'll face Modestas Bukauskas, who's looking to bounce back after his four-fight win streak was snapped by Nikita Krylov at UFC 324 in January. This is a classic clash between a hungry newcomer and a seasoned fighter eager to reclaim his momentum.

Meanwhile, the lightweight division gets a boost with Artur Miniev replacing the injured Trey Ogden. Miniev enters the octagon with a perfect 7-0 record, having finished six of his opponents—a stat that screams "finish artist." He'll take on Tommy Gantt, who makes his long-awaited UFC debut after impressing on Dana White's Contender Series last summer. Gantt's entire 12-fight unbeaten career has unfolded since April 2024, making him one of the sport's fastest-rising prospects. With both fighters undefeated, this bout promises fireworks and could be a sleeper hit of the night.

For fight fans, these last-minute changes add an extra layer of intrigue to an already stacked card. Whether you're tracking the next big star or just love a good comeback story, UFC Vegas 117 is shaping up to be a must-watch event. Get ready for Saturday night—these newcomers are ready to prove they belong on the big stage.

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