The UFC returns to Nashville, Tennessee, for an exciting Fight Night event on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the iconic Bridgestone Arena. Headlined by a heavyweight showdown between Derrick Lewis and Tailison Teixeira, UFC Fight Night 260 promises high stakes, thrilling action, and a stacked card that fans won’t want to miss.
Full Fight Card
The main event features Derrick Lewis, known for his knockout power and fan-friendly style, taking on the rising contender Tailison Teixeira. Lewis, a perennial heavyweight contender with 14 UFC knockouts, aims to reassert himself in the division after a mixed 2024 season. Teixeira, on the other hand, has been climbing the heavyweight ranks with a combination of striking and grappling, making this a compelling matchup.
The rest of the main card includes:
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Lightweight Bout: Drew Dober vs. Arman Tsarukyan
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Welterweight Clash: Neil Magny vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio
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Women’s Strawweight: Mackenzie Dern vs. Marina Rodriguez
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Middleweight Fight: Sean Strickland vs. Jared Cannonier
The preliminary card features promising prospects and veterans alike, including:
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Featherweight: Movsar Evloev vs. Ilia Topuria
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Flyweight: Brandon Royval vs. Kai Kara-France
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Light Heavyweight: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Johnny Walker
Start Time and Broadcast Information
The event will kick off at 3:00 PM CT (4:00 PM ET) with the early prelims streaming live on ESPN+. The prelims will begin at 6:00 PM CT (7:00 PM ET) on ESPN and ESPN+, followed by the main card at 8:00 PM CT (9:00 PM ET), broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes.
Fans can also stream the entire event via the ESPN app or through UFC’s digital platforms, ensuring accessibility whether watching at home or on the go.
What to Expect
Derrick Lewis enters the cage with a reputation as one of the most dangerous heavy hitters in UFC history, boasting a career record of 27 wins and 11 knockouts. Despite recent ups and downs, Lewis remains a fan favorite for his knockout potential and entertaining post-fight interviews. Tailison Teixeira, meanwhile, is viewed as a rising star with a well-rounded skill set, having gone 7-2 in the UFC with several finishes.
Lewis said ahead of the fight, “I’m ready to show the world I’m still the baddest man in the heavyweight division. Teixeira’s tough, but I’ve knocked out bigger names.” Teixeira responded, “This is my time. I’m hungry, and I’m coming for that win in Nashville.”
The undercard features several intriguing bouts that could have title implications down the line. Movsar Evloev vs. Ilia Topuria is particularly noteworthy, as both fighters are ranked in the featherweight top 10 and known for their technical prowess.
Venue and Tickets
Bridgestone Arena, with a capacity of approximately 20,000, is known for its electrifying atmosphere during UFC events. Tickets for UFC Nashville 2025 are available now through the official Bridgestone Arena website and UFC’s ticketing partners, with prices ranging from $75 to $450 depending on seating.
Final Thoughts
UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Teixeira in Nashville is shaping up to be a must-watch event, blending established stars with rising contenders. With a prime-time ESPN broadcast and a stacked card, fans can expect fireworks both inside and outside the Octagon.
As Dana White put it, “Nashville is one of our favorite cities to fight in. This card has something for everyone power, technique, and heart. It’s going to be a great night.” Whether you’re a hardcore MMA follower or a casual fan, July 12 is the date to mark on your calendar.

