- George Chung
- Sep 5, 2024
- 2 min read
UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs Pereira on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Las Vegas, is shaping up to be a night of thrilling action, and fans won’t want to miss the highly anticipated flyweight clash between Matheus Nicolau and Asu Almabayev. As a featured bout on the card, this fight has major implications for the flyweight division, with two elite competitors eager to climb the ranks and stake their claim for a title shot.
Matheus Nicolau Looks to Defend Top 10 Spot
Ranked No. 7 in the UFC flyweight division, Matheus Nicolau (19-5-1) is no stranger to the pressure of competing at the highest level. The Brazilian standout is looking to bounce back after a tough 2024 and secure a crucial victory that will reaffirm his place among the division's best. With notable wins over UFC stalwarts like Matt Schnell, Tim Elliott, and Manel Kape, Nicolau has proven his ability to hang with top-tier talent.
Known for his well-rounded skill set, Nicolau’s striking and submission game make him a formidable challenge for anyone in the division. However, facing Almabayev presents a unique test, as the Kazakhstani fighter’s momentum and unrelenting pressure will push Nicolau to his limits.
Asu Almabayev on a Mission to Break into the Top 10
Asu Almabayev (20-2) has quickly become one of the UFC’s most talked-about rising stars. Riding an impressive 16-fight win streak that stretches back to 2017, Almabayev has stormed through the flyweight division since his UFC debut. With victories over Ode’ Osbourne, C.J. Vergara, and Jose Johnson, Almabayev has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike as a future title contender.
A victory over a seasoned veteran like Nicolau would be a career-defining moment for Almabayev, catapulting him into the Top 10 and thrusting him into the conversation for a title shot in the near future. Known for his wrestling and relentless pace, Almabayev will need to bring his A-game to outwork and outsmart Nicolau inside the Octagon.
What’s at Stake
For Nicolau, this fight is all about solidifying his position as one of the division's elite while fending off a fast-rising contender. A win could potentially set him up for a title eliminator or a shot at the belt in the near future. On the flip side, Almabayev has the opportunity to make a massive leap forward in the rankings and announce himself as a serious threat to the current flyweight champions.
With both fighters hungry for victory and eager to prove themselves, this bout promises to be an all-out war that could steal the show at UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs Pereira.
Main Event Highlights
The night’s headliner, a middleweight showdown between No. 13-ranked Anthony Hernandez and No. 14-ranked Michel Pereira, has fans buzzing as both fighters look to crack into the Top 10 of their division. Hernandez brings a submission-heavy arsenal, while Pereira’s unpredictable and dynamic striking style promises fireworks.
Be sure to catch all the action on Saturday, October 19, live from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Prelims begin at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT, followed by the main card at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, exclusively on ESPN+.
