LAS VEGAS — December 13, 2025 — The UFC closes out an explosive year with one final stop at the UFC Apex, delivering a card loaded with action, rising contenders, and divisional shake-ups. More than just the final event of 2025, this milestone card marks the last UFC broadcast under the long-running ESPN media deal before the promotion transitions to its new home on Paramount+ in 2026. It’s the end of an era — and the fighters are determined to make it unforgettable.
Main Event: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
The spotlight shines on the flyweight division, where two of the most dynamic fighters on the roster collide: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape. The matchup carries major implications for the 125-pound rankings, with both athletes hovering just outside immediate title contention.
Royval enters the bout with his trademark chaos — a relentless, scrambling, submission-hunting style that forces opponents into discomfort from the opening bell. His pace, unpredictability, and never-quit mentality have made him a fan favorite, and tonight he aims to remind the division why he remains one of the most dangerous threats at flyweight.
Across from him stands Manel Kape, a fighter whose explosive striking and finishing instincts have earned him highlight after highlight. Kape brings a deep arsenal of dynamic kickboxing, counters, and power that can end the fight in an instant. After several postponements due to injuries on both sides, this long-anticipated matchup finally comes to fruition — and the timing couldn’t be better. A win tonight may be all either man needs to punch his ticket toward a 2026 title shot.
Co-Main Event & Featured Bouts
While the main event promises fireworks, the rest of the card is equally stacked with compelling storylines and high-stakes clashes.
Giga Chikadze vs. Kevin Vallejos
Featherweight standout Giga Chikadze brings his elite kickboxing pedigree into the cage against rising prospect Kevin Vallejos, whose high-volume striking and fearlessness make him a dark horse to steal the spotlight. For Chikadze, this fight represents a chance to regain momentum in a crowded division, while Vallejos looks to secure the biggest win of his career.
César Almeida vs. Cezary Oleksiejczuk
At middleweight, César Almeida meets Cezary Oleksiejczuk in a matchup that feels destined for a finish. Both fighters carry knockout power and an aggressive approach, making this a sleeper pick for Fight of the Night.
Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida
Heavyweight intrigue hits center stage as Kennedy Nzechukwu battles grappling phenom Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida. With Nzechukwu’s reach and striking matched against Buchecha’s world-class jiu-jitsu, this stylistic clash could create massive movement within the heavyweight landscape.
The undercard features a mix of strawweight battles, catchweight showcases, and debuting talent — illustrating the depth and global scope of the UFC’s ever-expanding roster.
A Turning Point for the UFC
Beyond the action inside the Octagon, UFC Fight Night: Royval vs. Kape represents a symbolic moment in the promotion’s evolution. With the ESPN broadcast era closing tonight, fighters understand the opportunity — and pressure — to deliver statement performances before the UFC begins its highly anticipated broadcast partnership with Paramount+ in January 2026.
As anticipation builds for the future of the sport, tonight’s event serves as both a celebration and a launching point. Fans and analysts have already begun speculating about who will emerge as breakout contenders heading into the new media era — and this card is poised to provide plenty of answers.
With high-stakes fights, elite talent, and a historic transition looming, UFC Fight Night: Royval vs. Kape sets the stage for an electrifying finish to 2025 — and an even bigger year ahead.
