High-octane featherweights collide Saturday night, as South Korean striker DooHo Choi faces Brazilian Muay Thai specialist Daniel Santos in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night at the META Apex.
Choi (16–4–1, 5–3–1 UFC) returns to the Octagon for the first time since December 2024, when he scored a third-round TKO of Nate Landwehr — his second straight stoppage victory. Santos (14–2, 4–1 UFC) enters on a four-fight winning streak, punctuated by a second-round knockout of JooSang Yoo in October.
Santos enters as a -162 moneyline favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook, while Choi sits as a +136 underdog. The total is set at O/U 2.5 rounds.
Choi vs. Santos Preview
DooHo Choi
DooHo Choi is set for another highly anticipated return, following the three-year layoff that sidelined him from late 2019 until early 2023. “The Korean Superboy” is unbeaten in his three bouts since returning, fighting to a draw against Kyle Nelson before scoring back-to-back knockout wins over Bill Algeo and, most recently, Nate Landwehr in December 2024.
Choi is known for his rapid striking and wrecking-ball power, boasting 13 knockouts across 16 pro bouts — seven in the first round. Now 35, he’ll look to prove that he still has gas in the tank after another lengthy hiatus from the Octagon.
Daniel Santos
Daniel Santos was undeterred after losing his UFC debut to an opponent who didn’t make weight. “Willycat” has since won four-straight bouts — two by knockout — highlighted by a second-round KO of JooSang Yoo at UFC 320 this past October.
Like his opponent, the 31-year-old Santos is an aggressive stoppage artist. Backed by a strong Muay Thai base, seven of his 14 professional wins have come by knockout. And on Saturday, he’ll look to add another statement victory in what will undoubtedly be the biggest test of his career.
Choi vs. Santos Pick, Best Bet
Saturday’s co-main event should devolve into chaos from the opening bell. Choi and Santos have combined for 20 career knockout victories, and each fighter will likely be hunting for a finish in an attempt to inch closer to the division’s top 15. Given their track records, this fight should only end one way.
