This Saturday, October 10, 2026, the UFC returns to its home base at Meta Apex in Las Vegas for UFC Vegas 122. Despite the record-breaking knockout fest at UFC 332 last week, the promotion seems to be in a lull with no truly memorable bouts recently—and that trend is unlikely to change this weekend. On the upside, the increase in one-sided matchups could still offer some entertaining moments and maybe even improve my fight-prediction success a bit.
We’re back at the Apex, and fans are now familiar with what to expect there. Let’s break down the five main card fights leading into the headliner:
Lightweight: Jai Herbert (+148) vs. Matheus Camilo (-192)
Herbert’s best win is over Kyle Nelson, while Camilo’s top victory is against Nadim Sadykhov. Herbert just took a win in his last fight, Camilo has a two-fight winning streak, and Camilo is 13 years younger. Herbert is a scrappy technical veteran known for his exciting style, though he lacks elite athleticism. Camilo, a youthful Brazilian prospect, has shown flashes of exceptional striking but has been inconsistent. This matchup is tricky—Camilo’s youth and power versus Herbert’s experience and reach advantage. Herbert might control the fight with volume and counterstrikes, aiming for a decision victory.
Strawweight: Loopy Godinez (-245) vs. Ketlen Souza (+186)
Godinez’s career highlight is a win over Jessica Andrade, whereas Souza’s is over Yazmin Jauregui. Godinez recently lost her last fight but typically pushes a strong pace with solid standup and wrestling skills. Souza, on a two-fight win streak, is known for aggressive power punching and exciting bouts. While Souza brings intensity and power, her wrestling defense has been questionable in past losses. Expect Godinez to use her takedowns and conditioning to maintain control and earn a decision win, despite not always being the most thrilling fighter to watch.
Featherweight: Andre Fili (-150) vs. Kai Kamaka III (+118)
Fili claims a big win over Cub Swanson, while Kamaka’s best is Bubba Jenkins. Both fighters have recent losses and knockout stoppages in the summer. Fili, a seasoned UFC veteran known for precise distance striking and powerful kicks, holds several advantages including reach and power. Kamaka offers nonstop pressure and solid wrestling but might struggle against Fili’s jab and leg kicks. Fili should be able to control the fight at range and come away with a decision victory.
Light Heavyweight: Julius Walker (-295) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (+220)
Walker’s top victory was against Rafael Cerqueira; Meerschaert’s was over Edmen Shahbazyan. Walker is coming off two losses, and Meerschaert has been on a five-fight losing streak while moving up to 205 pounds. Walker has good athleticism but remains hittable, while Meerschaert is an aging veteran with declining durability. Despite Meerschaert’s experience and potential to capitalize on his power, Walker’s youth and aggression should lead to a knockout win.
Bantamweight: Malcolm Wellmaker (-235) vs. Otari Tanzilovi (+180)
Wellmaker’s best win is against Cameron Saaiman; Tanzilovi’s is over Guillermo Torres. Wellmaker has lost two in a row, while Tanzilovi also recently dropped his UFC debut. This fight features a classic striker (Wellmaker) versus wrestler (Tanzilovi) dynamic. Wellmaker, now training at American Top Team, has the size, reach, and knockout power to make an impact if he can handle Tanzilovi’s takedown attempts. Thanks to ATT’s expertise, Wellmaker should work to improve his grappling and come back with a decision victory.
Overall season ‘X-Factor’ picks stand at 59-32.
For those interested, the full UFC Vegas 122 fight card and lineup are available [here].
Fan Take: This upcoming card may not boast the star power or explosive finishes recently seen, but it’s crucial for showcasing rising talent and veterans fighting to stay relevant. These matchups could signal future contenders and keep the sport’s competitive depth thriving, which ultimately strengthens the UFC’s long-term appeal to fight fans.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
