NASHVILLE, July 12, 2025 — Heavyweight contenders Derrick Lewis and Tallison Teixeira will headline tonight’s UFC Nashville card at Bridgestone Arena, a fight carrying significant weight in the division now that former champion Jon Jones is sidelined. The main card is set to begin at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN/ESPN+ following preliminary bouts starting at 6 p.m. ET.
Lewis vs. Teixeira: A Heavyweight Clash in Music City
The highly anticipated matchup between Lewis and Teixeira could shake up the heavyweight rankings.
- Derrick Lewis, known for his knockout power, faces undefeated Tallison Teixeira.
- Stephen Thompson will test his striking prowess against Gabriel Bonfim in the co-main event.
- The event features a full slate of preliminary fights beginning at 6 p.m. ET.
- Fans can stream the entire card live on ESPN/ESPN+.
The stakes are high as Lewis (26-10) and Teixeira (14-0) prepare to trade blows. With Jones stepping away from the title, a win for either fighter could propel them into contention for a championship opportunity. Lewis, nicknamed “The Black Beast,” is a veteran known for his explosive power, while Teixeira is an up-and-coming force with a perfect record and a reputation for finishing fights.
Co-Main Event: Thompson Faces Bonfim’s Submission Threat
In the co-main event, veteran striker Stephen Thompson (17-6-1) will face Gabriel Bonfim (16-0). The 42-year-old Thompson is looking to prove he can still compete at a high level, while Bonfim aims to continue his undefeated streak and establish himself as a top contender in the welterweight division. Thompson will need to utilize his striking expertise to avoid Bonfim’s dangerous submission attempts.
Full Fight Card Breakdown
Rounding out the main card are exciting matchups featuring Steve Garcia vs. Calvin Kattar, Nate Landwehr vs. Morgan Charriere, Junior Tafa vs. Tuco Tokkos, and Vitor Petrino vs. Austen Lane. The preliminary card is headlined by Chris Curtis vs. Max Griffin, with additional bouts including Ai TIME vs. Jake Matthews, Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Valter Walker, Lauren Murphy vs. Eduarda Moura, Mike Davis vs. Mitch Ramirez, and Fatima Kline vs. Melissa Martinez.
What’s the schedule for UFC Nashville? The preliminary card begins at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN/ESPN+, followed by the main card at 9 p.m. ET on the same platforms.
Earlier results from the preliminary card saw Vitor Petrino defeat Austen Lane by submission (rear naked choke) in round one at 4:16. Junior Tafa fell to Tuco Tokkos via submission (arm triangle) in round two at 4:25. Chris Curtis secured a split decision victory over Max Griffin (29-28, 28-29, 29-28). Jake Matthews defeated Chidi Njokuani by submission (rear naked choke) in the first round at 1:09. Eduarda Moura earned a unanimous decision win against Lauren Murphy (29-28, 29-28, 29-28). Valter Walker submitted Kennedy Nzechukwu with a heel hook in round one at 0:54. Mike Davis knocked out Mitch Ramirez with a flying knee and punches in round two at 4:08. Finally, Fatima Kline defeated Melissa Martinez by TKO (head kick and ground punches) in round three at 2:36.
Fans can stay updated with the latest news, recaps, and post-fight analysis following the Lewis vs. Teixeira main event.
