UFC Nashville Fight Card: Derrick Lewis vs. Tallison Teixeira Preview and Predictions

By Ali Hammad July 02, 2025 05:43

The UFC returns to Nashville on July 12 with a heavyweight showdown that pits the seasoned knockout artist Derrick Lewis against the undefeated rising star Tallison Teixeira. This clash at Bridgestone Arena headlines UFC Fight Night 70 and promises fireworks as two fighters with contrasting styles and career trajectories collide.

At 40 years old, Derrick Lewis remains a formidable force in the heavyweight division. Known as the UFC’s all-time leader in knockouts with 15 finishes, Lewis boasts a career record of 28 wins, 12 losses, and 1 no contest. Despite a recent mixed run going 2-4 in his last six fights Lewis’s power and experience keep him relevant among the top contenders. His last fight was a dominant knockout victory over Rodrigo Nascimento in May 2024, where he finished the bout in under three minutes. Lewis’s ability to end fights explosively has made him a fan favorite and a constant threat inside the Octagon.

Lewis himself has spoken openly about the challenges of staying active in the heavyweight division. In an interview with MMA Junkie, he admitted, “I nearly had to plead to get this fight,” highlighting the scarcity of matchups for him recently. Nevertheless, Lewis is confident heading into Nashville, saying, “I’ve been training intensely for about four months now, really every single day, which I’ve never done before. I’m confident I’ll be in excellent shape for this fight. My six-pack will be back.” He also expressed a preference for fighting taller opponents like Teixeira, believing his powerful right hand fits well against such fighters.

On the other side stands Tallison Teixeira, a 25-year-old Brazilian prospect who has quickly made a name for himself since entering the UFC in 2024. Teixeira is undefeated with an 8-0 professional record, all wins coming via first-round finishes seven knockouts and one submission. Ranked 14th in the heavyweight division, Teixeira has yet to be taken beyond the opening round in any fight, underscoring his aggressive style and finishing ability. His UFC debut was marked by a first-round knockout victory over Justin Tafa, earning him a “Performance of the Night” bonus and signaling his arrival as a serious contender.

The matchup presents a classic clash of youth versus experience. Teixeira’s relentless pressure and finishing instinct will test Lewis’s durability and fight IQ. Conversely, Lewis’s veteran savvy and knockout power could halt the undefeated streak of the young Brazilian.

MMA analyst Hamish Woodward previewed the fight by noting, “Teixeira’s rise has been meteoric, but Lewis’s experience and power make this anything but a foregone conclusion. Expect a high-stakes battle where one punch could decide the outcome.”

The fight will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN+ starting with prelims at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the main card at 10 p.m. ET. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere at Bridgestone Arena as Nashville hosts its seventh UFC event, with Lewis and Teixeira looking to make a statement in the heavyweight division.

Derrick Lewis vs. Tallison Teixeira is a compelling heavyweight showdown that could reshape the division’s landscape. Lewis aims to extend his knockout record and prove he still belongs among the elite, while Teixeira seeks to maintain his perfect record and announce himself as a future title contender. With power, skill, and stakes this high, UFC Nashville promises an unforgettable night of action.