Get ready for a thrilling end to the UFC’s 2025 season, as the final card of the year promises to deliver fireworks—and one name stands out above the rest: Marcus Buchecha. The jiu-jitsu legend is back in the octagon, but can he redeem himself after a lackluster debut? That’s the question on everyone’s mind as he faces Kennedy Nzechukwu on December 13th, in what could be a make-or-break moment for his UFC career. But here’s where it gets controversial: Buchecha’s first UFC outing in July left fans divided—was it a fluke, or is the transition from ONE Championship to the UFC tougher than he anticipated? And this is the part most people miss: Buchecha’s five MMA wins under ONE Championship all came via first-round stoppages, but in the UFC, he gassed out against Martin Buday, who was later released by the promotion. Will he bounce back, or is the pressure too much? Bold prediction: This fight could redefine his legacy—or raise even more questions.
UFC Vegas 112, airing on ESPN+ for the last time, isn’t just about Buchecha. The card is stacked with rising stars and redemption stories. At the top, Brandon Royval and Manel Kape will clash in a five-round flyweight showdown that could shake up the division. Meanwhile, featherweight sensation Melquizael Costa, fresh off a $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus, takes on former Cage Warriors champion Morgan Charriere. Costa’s four-fight win streak, including back-to-back finishes, has fans buzzing, but Charriere is no pushover—he’s looking to build on his knockout win over Nate Landwehr in July. Fun fact: Charriere has pocketed bonuses in four of his five UFC bouts, proving he’s a fan favorite for a reason.
Speaking of comebacks, Kennedy Nzechukwu is eager to rebound after a rare submission loss to Valter Walker in July. With only two submission losses in 20 pro fights, can he avoid Buchecha’s world-class grappling? Or will Buchecha’s jiu-jitsu prowess finally shine in the UFC? Controversial take: Nzechukwu’s striking could be his saving grace, but Buchecha’s ground game is unmatched—unless he falters again under the bright lights.
The undercard isn’t short on excitement either. Middleweight kickboxing veteran Cesar Almeida faces Poland’s Cezary Oleksiejczuk, while featherweights Joanderson Brito and Melsik Baghdasaryan battle for redemption. Each fight brings its own narrative, but the overarching theme is clear: this card is about second chances and proving doubters wrong.
As the UFC closes out its ESPN+ era, this event feels like a turning point. Will Buchecha silence his critics? Can Costa and Charriere solidify their spots in the featherweight rankings? And which fighter will leave it all in the octagon to end 2025 on a high note? Thought-provoking question for you: With so much on the line, which fighter do you think has the most to prove—and who will rise to the occasion? Let’s hear your predictions in the comments!