The final UFC event of 2025 and the last broadcast under the ESPN partnership delivered explosive finishes, dramatic upsets, and compelling storylines at UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape. Taking place on December 13, 2025, at the UFC APEX in Enterprise, Nevada, this historic card marked the end of an era before the promotion transitions to its new Paramount+ broadcast deal in 2026.
The night was headlined by an explosive flyweight showdown that saw Manel Kape devastate Brandon Royval with a first-round knockout, emphatically staking his claim for a title shot against newly-crowned champion Joshua Van. Former Bellator champion Yaroslav Amosov made a spectacular UFC debut, while rising star Kevin Vallejos delivered one of the year's most brutal knockouts. From the opening prelim to the main event, UFC on ESPN 73 showcased the depth of talent across multiple divisions and provided a fitting send-off to the ESPN era.
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UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape Main Card Results
Flyweight: Manel Kape (Angola) def. Brandon Royval (USA) via TKO (Punches), Round 1 (3:18)
In the main event of UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape, Manel "Starboy" Kape delivered a statement performance with a devastating first-round knockout of Brandon Royval, putting himself firmly in the title conversation at 125 pounds. The finish was as brutal as it was sudden, with Kape showcasing the speed and power that have made him one of the division's most dangerous fighters.
The fight began with both men respecting each other's abilities, trading strikes cautiously in the opening exchanges. Royval, known for his scrambling ability and submission threats, looked to establish his rhythm early. However, Kape's superior striking quickly became evident. The Angolan fighter was sharper, faster, and more precise with his combinations.
As the round progressed, Kape began to find his range and timing. He started landing clean shots that visibly bothered Royval. The former title challenger tried to pressure forward and impose his will, but Kape was ready with counters. The end came when Kape unleashed a blistering combination that caught Royval flush. A series of rapid-fire punches sent Royval crashing to the canvas, and Kape swarmed with ground-and-pound.
Royval, showing the toughness that has defined his career, tried to survive and work back to his feet, but Kape's follow-up strikes were too much. Referee Jason Herzog stepped in to wave off the fight at 3:18 of the first round, giving Kape his third consecutive knockout victory and seventh win in his last eight fights.
In his post-fight interview, Kape cut an impressive promo, declaring that he deserves the next flyweight title shot over Tatsuro Taira, who defeated Brandon Moreno at UFC 323. The 32-year-old former RIZIN Bantamweight Champion has now positioned himself as the clear number one contender, with his finishing ability and recent winning streak making him impossible to ignore.
For Royval, this represented his first career knockout loss and marks back-to-back defeats after falling to Joshua Van via unanimous decision at UFC 317 in June. The 33-year-old Denver native released a statement after the fight, saying he would "live to fight another day" despite the disappointing result. Royval's road back to title contention just became significantly more difficult.
Featherweight: Kevin Vallejos (Argentina) def. Giga Chikadze (Georgia) via KO (Spinning Backfist and Elbows), Round 2 (1:29)
Kevin Vallejos announced his arrival as a legitimate featherweight contender with one of the most spectacular knockouts of 2025, demolishing Giga Chikadze with a spinning backfist and follow-up elbows in the second round. The 24-year-old Argentine's performance was nothing short of sensational and will immediately propel him into the rankings.
The first round belonged to Chikadze, the highly-skilled kickboxer who utilized his reach and technical striking to control the distance. The Georgian landed several hard liver kicks that clearly hurt Vallejos, and his superior height and reach advantage appeared to be a significant factor. Many observers had Chikadze winning the opening frame decisively, and it looked like experience would prevail over youth.
However, Vallejos showed why he's considered a special talent. Despite struggling to get his hands going early and absorbing punishment, the Argentine remained composed and patient. In the second round, he timed a perfect right hand that backed Chikadze into the fence and visibly stunned the veteran. Sensing the opportunity, Vallejos pressed forward.
What came next will be replayed on highlight reels for years to come. Vallejos threw a spinning backfist that connected flush on Chikadze's jaw, sending the Georgian crashing to the canvas at an awkward angle. Chikadze's arms were trapped beneath his body as he fell, leaving him completely defenseless. Vallejos immediately pounced with three crushing elbows, each one appearing to shut off and reawaken "The Ninja" in rapid succession.
Referee Marc Goddard rushed in to stop the fight at 1:29 of round two, with Chikadze's eyes wide and staring lifelessly at the mat. The Georgian struggled to work himself back to his feet afterward, clearly compromised by the brutal finish. This marked the first knockout loss of Chikadze's career, a particularly painful milestone for the 37-year-old veteran.
For Vallejos, who entered the fight with only two UFC appearances after earning his contract on Dana White's Contender Series, this victory is career-defining. He'll enter 2026 as a ranked featherweight, and his explosive power makes him a dangerous matchup for anyone in the division. The win extended his streak to six consecutive victories and established him as one of the most exciting young prospects in one of the UFC's deepest divisions.
Chikadze, meanwhile, has now lost three straight fights and faces serious questions about his future. The once-rising contender who defeated Edson Barboza and Cub Swanson has fallen on hard times, and at 37, his window for another title run may be closing. Five fighters were transported to the hospital after UFC Vegas 112, with Chikadze among them following the brutal knockout.
Middleweight: Cezary Oleksiejczuk (Poland) def. Cesar Almeida (Brazil) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
In his UFC debut, Polish middleweight Cezary Oleksiejczuk employed a wrestling-heavy game plan to neutralize the striking of Cesar "The Nightmare" Almeida, earning a unanimous decision victory that all three judges scored 30-27. The fight was a tactical chess match that saw the younger brother of UFC veteran Michal Oleksiejczuk showcase his grappling superiority.
Almeida, known for his kickboxing pedigree and knockout power, entered the fight as the favorite. However, Oleksiejczuk had clearly studied his opponent's weaknesses and came prepared with a game plan to avoid prolonged striking exchanges. The 27-year-old Polish fighter immediately looked to close distance and bring the fight to the mat.
The first round set the tone for the entire contest. Oleksiejczuk secured early takedowns and, once on the ground, displayed excellent control. Almeida attempted to work back to his feet and create separation, but every time he found success, Oleksiejczuk would change levels and drag him back down. When they did exchange on the feet, Almeida landed the more damaging shots, but those moments were too brief to swing the round in his favor.
Round two followed a similar pattern. Almeida hit a big one-two combination that showed his striking superiority, but Oleksiejczuk countered with a reactive takedown. The Brazilian quickly built up onto his knees and then stood along the fence, only for Oleksiejczuk to turn him and take him down again. The Polish fighter's relentless wrestling was simply too much for Almeida to overcome.
The third round saw Oleksiejczuk continue his wrestling dominance. He secured a big slam that landed him in side control. There was a brief break after Oleksiejczuk elbowed Almeida in the groin and Almeida retaliated with a knee to Oleksiejczuk's head, resulting in a stand-up that gave Almeida a chance to make something happen on the feet. However, he couldn't capitalize, and Oleksiejczuk took him down once more to seal the round and the fight.
While the unanimous 30-27 scorecards reflected Oleksiejczuk's control, the fight was criticized for its lack of action and excitement. The Polish debutant effectively "wrestle-mugged" Almeida for fifteen minutes, and while it was a successful game plan, it didn't win many fans. Nevertheless, Oleksiejczuk achieved his goal of winning his UFC debut and will look to build on this foundation in 2026.
For Almeida, this was a frustrating setback. The 38-year-old Brazilian striker has now tasted defeat in the UFC and will need to work on his takedown defense if he wants to compete with the division's best. His striking remains dangerous, but in a sport where wrestling can neutralize striking, Almeida must develop a more well-rounded game.
Featherweight: Melquizael Costa (Brazil) def. Morgan Charriere (France) via KO (Head Kick), Round 1 (1:14)
Melquizael "The Dalmatian" Costa capped off a perfect 2025 campaign with his most spectacular finish yet, obliterating Morgan Charriere with a devastating head kick just 74 seconds into their featherweight clash. The knockout was so clean and so sudden that it immediately entered the conversation for Knockout of the Year honors.
Costa entered the fight riding a four-fight winning streak in 2025, having defeated Andre Fili, Christian Rodriguez, and Julian Erosa in impressive fashion throughout the year. However, none of those victories prepared fans for the explosive finish he would deliver against "The Last Pirate."
The fight began with both men feeling each other out, trading strikes cautiously. Charriere, a dangerous finisher in his own right, looked to establish his range and timing. Costa circled on the outside, patient and calculated. Then, in the blink of an eye, the fight was over.
Costa threw a picture-perfect left head kick that connected flush on Charriere's jaw. The impact was sickening, and the Frenchman's body went limp before he hit the canvas. He fell face-first to the mat, completely unconscious, as referee Mark Smith rushed in to wave off the fight. There was no need for follow-up strikes – Charriere was done from the moment the kick landed.
The knockout was so brutal that medical personnel immediately attended to Charriere, who took several minutes to regain his bearings. The 30-year-old French fighter eventually made it back to his feet but was clearly shaken by the devastating blow. It was a crushing defeat for Charriere, who had shown promise in his UFC run.
For Costa, the victory was the culmination of a remarkable year. The 28-year-old Brazilian entered 2025 with a 2-2 UFC record and was considered a complete unknown in the big picture of featherweight talent. He exits the year having gone 5-0 with five finishes, each one more impressive than the last. His Performance of the Night bonus earned him an extra $50,000, and more importantly, he's now knocking on the door of a ranking spot in the crowded featherweight division.
The finish showcased everything that makes Costa special: timing, technique, and devastating power. His ability to find the knockout blow in the blink of an eye makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone at 145 pounds. As he heads into 2026, Costa will be looking for a ranked opponent and a chance to prove he belongs among the division's elite.
Heavyweight: Kennedy Nzechukwu (Nigeria) vs. Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida (Brazil) - Unanimous Draw (28-28, 28-28, 28-28)
In what was widely described as "a truly terrible 15 minutes of fighting," heavyweight contenders Kennedy Nzechukwu and Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida battled to a unanimous draw that satisfied no one. The fight was marred by low output, minimal action, and frustration on both sides, making it one of the least entertaining bouts on the UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape card.
Nzechukwu, 32, entered the fight looking to bounce back from recent setbacks and establish himself as a legitimate contender in the thin heavyweight division. Buchecha, the legendary Brazilian jiu-jitsu icon making his second UFC appearance, was desperate for his first promotional victory after a disappointing debut.
The fight never found its rhythm. Both men appeared hesitant to engage, with long periods of inactivity punctuated by brief exchanges that led nowhere. Nzechukwu, who typically relies on his striking and reach advantage, seemed unable or unwilling to press the action. Buchecha, whose grappling credentials are unmatched, struggled to secure takedowns and implement his ground game.
The second round featured controversy when Nzechukwu was deducted one point for an eye poke, a foul that temporarily paused the action but did little to improve the pace of the fight. After the restart, both men continued their cautious approach, with neither willing to take significant risks.
By the third round, the sparse crowd at the UFC APEX had grown restless, with audible boos echoing through the venue. Neither fighter showed urgency despite the close scorecards, seemingly content to let the fight reach its conclusion without forcing the action. When the final horn sounded, it was met with relief rather than excitement.
All three judges scored the bout 28-28, resulting in a unanimous draw. The scorecards reflected the lack of decisive action from either fighter, with rounds that were nearly impossible to score definitively. Both men expressed frustration with the result, knowing that neither had done enough to earn a victory.
For Nzechukwu, the draw keeps him in a holding pattern in the heavyweight division. At 32, with a 13-6-1 record, he needs to find a way to put together a winning streak if he wants to contend for a title. For Buchecha, the result means he's still searching for his first UFC victory. The 36-year-old BJJ legend has struggled to translate his grappling dominance to mixed martial arts success, and this performance did nothing to suggest that trajectory will change.
Catchweight (160 lbs): Bobby Green (USA) def. Lance Gibson Jr. (USA) via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
In a short-notice catchweight bout added to the UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape main card, veteran Bobby "King" Green defeated Lance Gibson Jr. via split decision in a fight that failed to deliver the action fans had hoped for. The bout was contested at 160 pounds and served as a late replacement to fill out the main card.
Green, 38, is known for his showmanship and entertaining fighting style, often taunting opponents and putting on a show for the fans. However, in this fight, his antics couldn't mask the lack of consistent action. Green prowled around the cage, gesturing and calling for Gibson to engage, but the exchanges were sporadic and brief.
Gibson Jr., taking the fight on extremely short notice, appeared hesitant to fully commit to his offense. The lack of a full training camp likely played a role in his cautious approach, as he seemed content to survive and make it to the final bell rather than take risks that could lead to a finish.
The fight played out over three uneventful rounds, with Green landing the slightly cleaner and more frequent strikes. His experience advantage was evident in his movement and ring generalship, but he never truly threatened to finish the fight. Gibson Jr. had his moments, particularly when he was able to close distance and work in the clinch, but these moments were too few to sway the judges decisively.
When the scorecards were read, Green was awarded the split decision victory with scores of 29-28, 28-29, and 29-28. The result was as close as the fight itself, with one judge seeing it for Gibson Jr. while two gave the nod to the veteran.
For Green, the victory keeps him active and in the UFC's good graces. The California native has been a reliable presence on UFC cards for years, always willing to step up on short notice and fill gaps in the schedule. While this wasn't his most memorable performance, it's another win on his record and keeps him in the mix at lightweight.
Gibson Jr. can take some solace in the fact that he accepted a short-notice fight against a crafty veteran and nearly pulled off the upset. At 32, with a 8-5 professional record, he'll need more time to prepare and showcase his full abilities in his next outing.
The fight's placement on the main card was purely circumstantial, a necessity to fill airtime rather than a bout that deserved the spotlight. It served its purpose but was overshadowed by the more exciting fights both before and after it on the UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape card.
The UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape Prelims
Welterweight: Yaroslav Amosov (Ukraine) def. Neil Magny (USA) via Submission (Anaconda Choke), Round 1 (3:14)
Former Bellator welterweight champion Yaroslav Amosov made the most anticipated promotional debut of the night with a spectacular first-round submission victory over veteran gatekeeper Neil Magny. The Ukrainian's performance was flawless and immediately announced him as a threat to the UFC's 170-pound elite.
Amosov, whose UFC debut had been delayed for years due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and his service in the country's military, entered the octagon with immense expectations. The 31-year-old had dominated Bellator's welterweight division before transitioning to the UFC, and fans were eager to see how his skills would translate against UFC-level competition.
The fight began with both men trading strikes tentatively, with Magny using his length and reach to keep Amosov at distance. However, Amosov quickly closed the gap and initiated a clinch along the cage. The transition was seamless – Amosov secured a body lock and dragged Magny to the canvas with relative ease, showcasing the wrestling prowess that made him a champion in Bellator.
Once on the ground, Amosov demonstrated the grappling acumen that has defined his career. He moved to side control and then transitioned to an anaconda choke setup. Magny, an experienced grappler in his own right, recognized the danger and attempted to defend, but Amosov's technique was precise and his squeeze was unrelenting.
The choke was sunk in deep, and Magny had no choice but to tap out at 3:14 of the first round. The finish was emphatic and left no doubt about Amosov's credentials. Unlike former Bellator champions Patricio "Pitbull" Freire and Patchy Mix, who struggled in their UFC debuts, Amosov passed his first test with flying colors.
In his post-fight interview, Amosov was humble and respectful, thanking the UFC for the opportunity and expressing his desire to fight the division's best. The Ukrainian's performance immediately put him on the map at 170 pounds, and with his debut win secured, he'll likely earn a main card spot in 2026. A few more performances like this, and Amosov could find himself in the top ten of the welterweight rankings.
For Magny, this was a disappointing result but not entirely unexpected. The 38-year-old veteran has long served as a measuring stick for incoming contenders, and while he fell short against Amosov, there's no shame in losing to someone of that caliber. Magny's experience and willingness to face tough opponents make him a valuable presence on the roster, even if his days of title contention are likely behind him.
Amosov's debut was everything fans had hoped for – dominant, decisive, and demonstrative of his world-class skills. The former Bellator champion has successfully transitioned to the UFC and will be a problem for anyone in the welterweight division as he climbs the ranks.
Featherweight: Joanderson Brito (Brazil) def. Isaac Thomson (Scotland) via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Brazilian featherweight Joanderson Brito overcame a short-notice opponent in Isaac Thomson, earning a hard-fought unanimous decision victory that extended his UFC winning streak. The fight was a grappling-heavy affair that saw Brito use his superior mat skills to control the action over three competitive rounds.
Thomson stepped in on extremely short notice to replace Melsik Baghdasaryan, who withdrew for undisclosed reasons. The Scottish fighter was making his UFC debut under the worst possible circumstances – minimal preparation time, fighting a larger opponent, and facing a grappler with Brito's credentials. Despite these disadvantages, Thomson showed heart and determination throughout the contest.
The first round was competitive, with Thomson using his striking to keep Brito at bay early. However, Brito eventually secured a takedown and controlled position for the remainder of the frame, likely edging the round on the judges' scorecards. Thomson displayed solid defensive grappling, preventing Brito from advancing to more dominant positions or threatening submissions.
Round two saw more of the same pattern. Brito worked diligently to get the fight to the ground, where he held a clear advantage. Thomson fought valiantly from his back, working to create scrambles and return to his feet, but Brito's top control was suffocating. The Brazilian consistently advanced position and landed ground-and-pound when opportunities presented themselves.
By the third round, Thomson's gas tank was depleted from defending takedowns and carrying Brito's weight on the ground. Brito seized control, securing takedowns more easily and maintaining top position for longer stretches. Thomson survived to the final bell, showing admirable toughness, but it was clear who had won the fight.
All three judges scored the bout 29-28 in favor of Brito, reflecting the close but clear nature of his victory. The Brazilian's grappling prowess was the difference, as he was able to impose his game plan despite Thomson's best efforts to keep the fight standing.
For Brito, the victory keeps him on track in the featherweight division. The 29-year-old has shown himself to be a tough, durable fighter with excellent grappling skills. While his striking needs refinement, his ability to control opponents on the ground makes him a difficult matchup for many in the division.
Thomson, despite the loss, can hold his head high. Taking a UFC debut on short notice is never easy, and he showed grit and determination throughout the fight. With a proper training camp and better circumstances, the Scottish fighter may find more success in future outings.
Heavyweight: Steven Asplund (USA) def. Sean Sharaf (USA) via TKO (Punches and Elbows), Round 2 (3:49)
UFC newcomer Steven Asplund made an impressive promotional debut, finishing Sean Sharaf in the second round with punches and elbows to announce his arrival in the heavyweight division. The 29-year-old American showcased "dense hands" and finishing instincts that will make him a fighter to watch in 2026.
Asplund entered the fight with a 9-4 professional record and had been competing on regional circuits before earning his UFC opportunity. Sharaf, also making his promotional debut, came in with a 6-2 record and was confident in his abilities. The matchup between two debuting heavyweights promised action, and both men delivered.
The first round was competitive, with both fighters finding success on the feet. Asplund demonstrated solid boxing fundamentals, working behind a stiff jab and landing clean straight punches. Sharaf showed good movement and countered effectively, making it a close opening frame. The pace was measured, with both men respecting each other's power and looking for openings.
Round two saw Asplund begin to take over. He started landing with more frequency and authority, battering Sharaf with combinations that accumulated damage. Asplund's punches were heavy and well-placed, each one taking a toll on his opponent. Sharaf tried to fire back, but Asplund's pressure was relentless.
The end came at 3:49 of the second round when Asplund unleashed a barrage of punches and elbows that overwhelmed Sharaf. The sequence was brutal – Asplund's hands were incredibly fast for a heavyweight, and his elbows in close quarters were devastating. Sharaf covered up but couldn't defend effectively, prompting referee Kerry Hatley to step in and wave off the fight.
After the stoppage, Asplund showed excellent sportsmanship and likability in his post-fight interview, endearing himself to fans and establishing himself as one of the more personable fighters on the roster. His combination of finishing ability and charisma could make him a fan favorite as he continues his UFC journey.
The victory was an impressive start to Asplund's UFC career. The heavyweight division is always in need of new talent, and Asplund's performance demonstrated that he has the tools to compete at this level. His boxing fundamentals, finishing instincts, and heavyweight power make him an intriguing addition to the roster.
For Sharaf, the loss was a disappointing way to begin his UFC tenure. The 30-year-old will need to regroup and work on his defensive skills if he wants to remain on the roster. UFC debuts are often the toughest fights of a fighter's career, and Sharaf will hope for better results in future outings.
Women's Bantamweight: Luana Santos (Brazil) def. Melissa Croden (USA) via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
Brazilian bantamweight Luana Santos earned a workmanlike unanimous decision victory over Melissa Croden in a grappling-heavy affair that failed to excite the crowd. The fight was originally scheduled for a previous event but was moved to UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape for undisclosed reasons.
Santos employed a wrestling-focused game plan, using her grappling to control Croden for the majority of the fight. The Brazilian secured multiple takedowns throughout the contest and spent significant time in top control, working from various positions but never truly threatening a finish. While effective from a winning perspective, Santos' approach was conservative and safety-first.
Croden struggled to keep the fight standing, where she would have had a better chance to utilize her striking. Every time she found space to work her boxing, Santos would close distance and drag her back to the mat. The American showed solid defensive grappling, preventing Santos from advancing to mount or taking her back, but she couldn't create enough offense of her own to win rounds.
The judges scored the fight 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27, all in favor of Santos. The scorecards reflected Santos' control time and takedowns, even if her offense from top position was minimal. The fight was criticized for its lack of action and finishing attempts, with fans voicing their displeasure throughout the contest.
For Santos, the victory keeps her record intact and maintains her position in the women's bantamweight division. However, her risk-averse style may limit her appeal to fans and UFC matchmakers. To advance in the division, she'll need to show more aggression and finishing instincts.
Croden's struggles with takedown defense were evident throughout the fight. The 31-year-old American will need to work on her wrestling if she wants to find success against the division's better grapplers. Her striking showed promise in the brief moments she was able to keep the fight standing, but those moments were too few to impact the fight.
Heavyweight: Guilherme Pat (Brazil) def. Allen Frye Jr. (USA) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
In a battle of undefeated heavyweight prospects making their UFC debuts, Brazilian striker Guilherme "Kong" Pat dominated Allen Frye Jr. over three rounds to earn a unanimous decision victory and protect his perfect professional record. The 31-year-old Brazilian's journey to the UFC had been complicated by multiple visa denials, but his performance showed the wait was worth it.
Pat entered the fight as a physical specimen at 6'5" with excellent athleticism for the heavyweight division. His striking game was sharp throughout training camp, and he came prepared to showcase his skills against Frye. The 27-year-old American, also undefeated at 6-0 with all victories by knockout, brought explosive finishing power but lacked the experience and cardio to match Pat's sustained output.
The first round saw Pat establish his striking superiority immediately. He opened with heavy outside leg kicks that found their mark repeatedly, visibly bothering Frye. The American wanted no part of extended striking exchanges and looked to close distance early, pressing Pat against the cage. However, that position yielded little for Frye, as Pat consistently did his best work when given space, steadily busting up Frye's face with punches and elbows.
Round two followed a similar pattern. Pat opened with a flurry and forced Frye back to the cage. It became clear that Frye could absorb significant punishment, as he was taking the worst of nearly every striking exchange. His only moments of control came from pressing Pat against the fence, though it appeared more defensive than offensive – a survival tactic rather than an offensive strategy. He was never able to maintain that position for long, and Pat quickly got back to work with his hands.
Despite his success at range, Pat continued to allow Frye to push him to the cage periodically, giving the American brief moments of respite. These moments kept Frye in the fight but were nowhere near enough to win rounds.
Entering the third round, Pat fought as if he was hunting a finish. He upped the pace and landed damaging elbows that further busted up Frye's already damaged face. Frye again found brief moments against the cage but not enough to fully recover. After the early third-round flurry, Pat was visibly fatigued but maintained enough control to see out the round.
All three judges scored the fight 30-27 in favor of Pat, reflecting his clear dominance across all three rounds. The Brazilian's striking superiority was the story of the fight, with Frye unable to implement any effective offense beyond brief moments of cage control.
For Pat, who had been held back by four visa denials before finally securing his UFC contract, the victory was particularly sweet. In a post-fight interview, he opened up about the visa struggles and how the multiple rejections had affected him mentally. Now that he's in the UFC with a win under his belt, Pat will look to establish himself as a legitimate prospect in a heavyweight division desperately in need of new talent.
For Frye, the loss was a harsh introduction to UFC-level competition. The American's undefeated record was built against lower-level regional opponents, and the step up in class was evident. His cardio issues and one-dimensional approach were exposed, and he'll need to address these weaknesses if he wants another opportunity in the promotion.
Women's Flyweight: Jamey-Lyn Horth (Canada) def. Tereza Bledá (Czech Republic) via TKO (Punches), Round 1 (4:47)
Canadian flyweight Jamey-Lyn Horth opened the UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape fight card in explosive fashion, earning her first UFC finish with a first-round TKO of Tereza Bledá. The former LFA Women's Flyweight Champion showcased improved striking and finishing instincts to get her hand raised in impressive fashion.
Horth and Bledá were originally scheduled to compete at UFC on ESPN: Usman vs. Buckley in June, but Bledá was forced to withdraw from that bout due to a staph infection. The rescheduled matchup finally came to fruition in December, and Horth made sure there would be no further delays to her victory.
The fight began with Bledá immediately pursuing takedowns, showing little interest in standing and striking with the Canadian. The Czech fighter chained together multiple takedown attempts, displaying her wrestling-first mentality. However, Horth was ready for the grappling assault and defended the early attempts well.
Once Horth was able to break Bledá's grips and create separation, she didn't hesitate to capitalize. The Canadian began landing good close-quarters shots, finding success with her boxing combinations. Bledá tried to return to her grappling game, but Horth's takedown defense had improved significantly since her earlier UFC fights.
With Horth successfully stuffing takedowns and landing strikes in the exchanges, the momentum shifted dramatically. The Canadian started to find her rhythm, landing punches in bunches and backing Bledá up around the cage. Bledá, unable to get the fight to her preferred position on the ground, began to wilt under the sustained striking pressure.
Horth sensed her opponent was hurt and turned up the aggression. She chased Bledá around the octagon, landing combination after combination. Bledá tried to survive and find a way back into the fight, but Horth's output was overwhelming. The Czech fighter crumbled under the offensive onslaught, and referee Kerry Hatley stepped in to wave off the fight at 4:47 of the first round.
The finish was particularly significant for Horth, as it marked her first stoppage victory since December 2021. The 34-year-old Canadian had been searching for that finishing touch, and she found it against Bledá. In her post-fight interview, Horth said she was "over the moon" about earning the finish and felt it was a turning point in her UFC career.
For Horth, now 9-2 overall and 4-2 in the UFC, the victory keeps her moving forward in the women's flyweight division. Her improved striking and ability to defend takedowns make her a more complete fighter and a tougher matchup for the division's contenders.
Bledá suffered her second consecutive loss and drops to 7-2 overall and 1-2 in the UFC. The 31-year-old Czech fighter will need to develop a more well-rounded game if she wants to find success against the UFC's top flyweights. Her wrestling-only approach left her vulnerable when Horth stuffed the takedowns, and she had no backup plan.
Notable Stories from UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape
Last-Minute Card Changes
The UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape card underwent several significant changes in the days leading up to the event:
Amanda Lemos Pulled Day-Of: Former UFC Women's Strawweight Championship challenger Amanda Lemos was scheduled to face Gillian Robertson in a women's flyweight bout. However, Lemos was removed from the card by the Nevada State Athletic Commission on the day of the event due to a mouth injury. The bout has been rescheduled for February 7, 2026, at UFC Fight Night: Bautista vs. Oliveira. This was particularly disappointing as Lemos was already a replacement for Eduarda Moura, who had withdrawn due to an undisclosed injury.
Melsik Baghdasaryan Withdrawal: Baghdasaryan was expected to face Joanderson Brito in a featherweight bout, marking their third attempt to fight after previous cancellations. However, Baghdasaryan pulled out for undisclosed reasons and was replaced by promotional newcomer Isaac Thomson on short notice.
Bobby Green vs. Lance Gibson Jr. Added: The catchweight bout between King Green and Lance Gibson Jr. was put together on ultra-short notice to fill out the main card after other fights fell through. Both fighters agreed to compete at 160 pounds, and the fight was quickly added to ensure the ESPN broadcast had sufficient content.
Weight-Making Success
Unlike many UFC events that feature multiple fighters missing weight, UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape saw all scheduled fighters successfully make weight for their respective bouts. This was particularly impressive given the number of short-notice replacements and late changes to the card.
Fight Bonuses
The UFC awarded $50,000 performance bonuses to four fighters at UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape:
Performance of the Night: Manel Kape (for his knockout of Brandon Royval)
Performance of the Night: Kevin Vallejos (for his knockout of Giga Chikadze)
Performance of the Night: Melquizael Costa (for his knockout of Morgan Charriere)
Fight of the Night: Steven Asplund vs. Sean Sharaf
The bonus awards reflected the exciting finishes that highlighted the card, with three spectacular knockouts earning individual honors. The Asplund vs. Sharaf heavyweight battle earned Fight of the Night despite not going the distance, showcasing the back-and-forth action in their bout.
Injuries and Hospital Transports
Five fighters were transported to local hospitals following UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape for precautionary medical evaluations:
- Giga Chikadze: Transported after suffering a brutal knockout loss to Kevin Vallejos
- Morgan Charriere: Sent for evaluation after being knocked unconscious by Melquizael Costa's head kick
- Brandon Royval: Evaluated after his first-round knockout loss to Manel Kape
- Sean Sharaf: Checked after absorbing significant damage in his TKO loss to Steven Asplund
- Allen Frye Jr.: Transported after absorbing punishment throughout his three-round battle with Guilherme Pat
All five fighters were later cleared and released from medical care, with no serious long-term injuries reported.
Fighter Reactions and Callouts
Manel Kape's Title Shot Campaign: After his knockout victory, Kape was vocal about deserving the next flyweight title shot over Tatsuro Taira. He argued that his three-fight knockout streak and dominant performance against Royval should put him ahead of Taira, who defeated Brandon Moreno at UFC 323 but hasn't fought since.
Brandon Royval's Statement: Royval released a brief but poignant statement after suffering his first career knockout loss, saying he would "live to fight another day." The veteran flyweight acknowledged the setback but remained optimistic about his future in the division.
Giga Chikadze Addresses Retirement Speculation: Following his third consecutive knockout loss, speculation immediately began about Chikadze's future in the sport. The 37-year-old Georgian released a post-fight statement addressing retirement rumors, though he didn't commit definitively to continuing or hanging up his gloves.
Historical Significance
UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape marked the final UFC event broadcast under the promotion's partnership with ESPN in the United States. Beginning in January 2026, UFC will transition to its new broadcast deal with Paramount+/CBS, marking a new era for the organization.
The ESPN deal, which began in 2019, saw the UFC broadcast hundreds of events on ESPN, ESPN+, and ESPN2. The partnership helped grow the sport significantly and brought MMA to mainstream audiences through ESPN's platforms. The final ESPN event was fittingly held at the UFC APEX, the venue that became synonymous with UFC broadcasts during the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued to host Fight Night events since.
Division Implications
Flyweight: Manel Kape's victory positions him as the clear number one contender for Joshua Van's title. However, Tatsuro Taira's recent victory over Brandon Moreno also puts him in the conversation. A potential title eliminator between Kape and Taira could determine who faces Van first, though Kape's finishing ability and recent performances make him the more compelling challenger.
Featherweight: Kevin Vallejos' spectacular knockout of Giga Chikadze will immediately insert him into the rankings, likely in the 13-15 range. Melquizael Costa's fifth consecutive victory in 2025 also positions him for a ranking, and both young fighters represent the future of the division.
Welterweight: Yaroslav Amosov's successful UFC debut immediately establishes him as a welterweight to watch. The former Bellator champion proved he can compete at the UFC level, and a few more victories could see him challenging for a top ten spot by mid-2026.
Heavyweight: The heavyweight division remains in desperate need of new contenders, and while the performances at UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape were mixed, fighters like Guilherme Pat and Steven Asplund show promise. However, the draw between Kennedy Nzechukwu and Marcus Buchecha did little to clarify the division's future.
Conclusion
UFC on ESPN 73: Royval vs. Kape provided a fitting conclusion to the ESPN era, delivering explosive knockouts, dramatic finishes, and introducing new contenders across multiple divisions. While not every fight lived up to expectations, the card's highlights – including Manel Kape's devastating knockout, Kevin Vallejos' spectacular spinning backfist, and Yaroslav Amosov's impressive debut – will be remembered for years to come.
The event successfully closed one chapter of UFC history while setting the stage for the promotion's future on Paramount+. As 2025 comes to a close and the UFC prepares for its 2026 campaign under new broadcast arrangements, the performances at UFC Vegas 112 reminded fans why MMA remains the most exciting combat sport in the world.
From Jamey-Lyn Horth's opening TKO to Manel Kape's main event demolition of Brandon Royval, UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape showcased the depth of talent on the UFC roster and provided compelling storylines heading into the new year. The flyweight division has a new contender, the featherweight division has emerging stars, and the welterweight division has a dangerous new player in Yaroslav Amosov.
Other UFC Events:
- UFC 323 Dvalishvili vs Yan 2
- UFC Fight Night 265 Tsarukyan vs Hooker
- UFC 322 Della Maddalena vs Makhachev
- Upcoming UFC Events Schedule