The co-main event at UFC Fight Night 254 is set to showcase two fighters with contrasting styles and impressive backgrounds: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos and Chidi Njokuani. Scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025, this exhilarating welterweight clash will take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, sporting a record of 25 wins, 8 losses, and 1 no contest, has made headlines with his recent accomplishments. His last bout was nothing short of spectacular; dos Santos finished Zach Scroggin in just 75 seconds, showcasing his powerful strikes and finishing ability. With five of his sixteen UFC bouts ended via finish, dos Santos’s history presents him as a multifaceted threat within the octagon.
On the other side, Chidi Njokuani, holding a record of 24 wins and 10 losses, is eager to make it three straight victories. After overcoming a three-fight skid by winning split and unanimous decisions against Rhys McKee and Jared Gordon respectively, Njokuani is on the upswing and seeks to prove himself against another experienced competitor like dos Santos.
The fight promises to deliver thrilling action, as both fighters bring unique skills to the cage. Dos Santos is known for his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, enabling him to switch fluidly between grappling and stand-up exchanges. Conversely, Njokuani enhances his chances with his sharp Muay Thai background, particularly effective within tight spaces where he can deliver powerful strikes and counterattacks.
Analysts are buzzing with predictions, many favoring dos Santos, who has recently made strides to bolster his grappling prowess. Various betting lines reflect dos Santos as the favorite, sitting at -200 compared to Njokuani’s +160. This insight indicates bettors believe dos Santos holds the upper hand, primarily due to his finishing capabilities and experience.
Fight odds reveal parallels between what fans can anticipate and the distinct styles both warriors possess. The tactical dynamic could tilt based on which fighter can control the pace and distance of the fight effectively. Dos Santos may experience difficulties getting close against his taller opponent, whose reach advantage measures 80 inches compared to dos Santos’s 73 inches.
Njokuani is known for his ability to absorb punishment effectively, which has led some experts to suggest his durability might surprise dos Santos, especially if he can maintain range and strike from distance. Conversely, if dos Santos can close the distance and utilize his grappling, it may present opportunities to secure the win, potentially by submission as multiple predictors suggest.
With the fight clock set to begin, both fighters are eager to leave it all inside the octagon, each with meaningful experiences impacting their careers. Dos Santos, at the age of 38, seeks to extend his legacy within the UFC, making this co-main event pivotal to his future. Njokuani, now 36, carries the ambition of reinvigorated career momentum, intent on sticking with his winning streak.
The expectations around UFC Fight Night 254 have fans buzzing, creating anticipation with genuine excitement to see how these two fighters will match up against each other. The smaller octagonal space at UFC Apex can serve as either advantage or hindrance to their fighting styles, likely determining the strategic approach each fighter will take.
Broadcasting begins at 9:10 p.m. ET, with fans also able to enjoy the fight live on ESPN+. For those who eagerly await action from their favorite fighters, remain tuned to updates on the stacked card leading to the co-main event, with dos Santos and Njokuani firmly seated within the central narrative of UFC’s engaging history.
Both Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos and Chidi Njokuani are preparing diligently, knowing their fates lie within the cage during Fight Night 254. With so much at stake, and each fighter aware of the narrative woven through their paths, ring the bell and let the showdown commence!