The first UFC event of 2025 is finally here! After a month away, the promotion returns with an under the radar and enticing Fight Night. A rematch between two top contenders in the Women’s Strawweight division is at the top of the card. No. 6 Mackenzie Dern is facing No. 8 Amanda Ribas for the second time. They fought in 2019, with Ribas picking up a unanimous decision.
This event features 14 fights, but which fighters should you back? Check out my two best bets below for UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Ribas 2. Check out my full preview for this Fight Night right here.
Cesar Almeida to Win by KO/TKO/DQ (+130)
Almeida is a former opponent of UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira in kickboxing. He fought Poaton three times in kickboxing and is 1-2 against him. After experimenting with MMA several times, Almeida decided to go all-in with the sport.
In August 2023, Almeida won a fight on Dana White’s Contedner Series and knocked out Dylan Budka in his UFC debut in April 2024. He finished 2-1 in his first year in the promotion. Almeida trains at Teixeira MMA & Fitness in Bethel, Connecticut, Pereira’s current home. Former UFC light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira owns the gym and has played a significant role in Pereira’s development.
Almeida lost a split decision in his second fight in the UFC against Roman Kopylov. At 36, Almeida must be more aggressive to reach the heights his teammate, Periera, has. He is facing Abdul Razak Alhassan on Saturday. Almeida is three inches taller (6’1″ vs. 5’10”) and has a more significant reach (74″ vs. 73′). If he uses his physical advantages in his favor, he will have a great chance to pick up another knockout.
Jacobe Smith to Win by KO/TKO/DQ (-110)
Smith is 9-0 in his MMA career, with seven wins by knockout. He made his MMA debut in 2021, a little over three years ago. He has knocked out his last three opponents and most recently won on season 8 of DWCS. Legendary coach Sayif Saud is training him in Texas at Fortis MMA.
Even though he is 28, Smith is still a raw talent and has shown unreal athleticism. He is facing Preston Parsons, who is 11-5 and 2-3 in the UFC. Parsons is one inch taller (5’11” vs. 5’10”), while Smith has a one-inch reach edge (72″ vs. 71″). Parsons averages 3.53 takedowns per 15 minutes but only has a 36 percent takedown accuracy. If Smith can successfully defend Parsons’ takedowns early, he will be in a good spot to finish the fight on the feet. Smith is quick and has a ton of power in his hands.
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