UFC Vegas 104 took place on March 15, 2025, at the UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas, featuring high-stakes matches and the dramatic return of Roman Dolidze, who faced off against Marvin Vettori.
The evening was highlighted by Dolidze’s unanimous decision victory over Vettori, marking the first time Vettori had lost two consecutive fights during his professional mixed martial arts (MMA) career. Dolidze, ranked #12 in the middleweight division, returned with determination after their first matchup almost two years prior, where Vettori had clinched victory.
This time, the canvas and cage were all Dolidze’s as he took control over the final rounds, using superior conditioning to keep Vettori on the defensive. The judges scored the now 15-3 Dolidze’s performance at 49-46 all around. Vettori’s record fell to 19 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, increasing the pressure for the Italian to regain his footing after already losing to Jared Cannonier previously.
After his victory, Dolidze did not shy away from the spotlight, calling out former middleweight champions Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker for future bouts. Whittaker, eyeing some opponents higher up the rankings, mentioned his focus on competing against those within the top five, naming Sean Strickland as his next target, leaving Dolidze’s challenge open-ended.
The co-main event electrified the audience as Chidi Njokuani secured a TKO victory over Elizeu Zaleski. Njokuani, who claimed victory with crushing knees and strikes, achieved this win early on, extending his winning streak to three bouts. Zaleski, known for his durability, suffered just the second finish of his ten-year UFC tenure, his record now at 25 wins, 9 losses, and 1 draw. With the fight starting vigorously, Njokuani effectively landed decisive blows, leaving Zaleski unable to continue.
Other notable fights included Alexander Hernandez defeating Kurt Holobaugh by unanimous decision and Da'Mon Blackshear submitting Cody Gibson via kimura, showcasing the diverse fighting styles present on the card—featuring not only brawlers but grappling experts as well. Brendson Ribeiro, also notable for his prowess, conquered Diyar Nurgozhay via submission, marking the latter's first loss after holding onto his undefeated streak of ten wins.
On the preliminary card, fighters delivered many thrilling moments. Kevin Vallejos knocked out Seung Woo Choi with a right hook, signaling potential challenges for Choi, who now faces the uncertainty of being cut from the UFC after losing five of his last six bouts.
For each fighter aiming for success, the stakes have never been higher. Dolidze’s triumph puts him solidly back on the map, and the call-outs he made express not only personal ambition but also reshape the competitive narrative within the division. Njokuani could seek opponents with title aspirations next, bolstered by his impressive performances.
Every bout at UFC Vegas 104 carried ramifications for the future matchups within the rankings. With so many fighters poised for opportunity after the event, it remains to be seen who will step up to the plate next. While Dolidze looks to establish himself among the elite, Vettori will have to reassess and rebound, possibly considering face-offs against Bo Nickal or Reinier de Ridder, both rising talents scheduled to meet soon.
The echoes of fists, feet, and fierce competition at UFC Vegas 104 will ring on as the fighters' paths continue to intersect, evolve, and reshape the competitive atmosphere moving forward.
