UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez

[2] A flyweight rematch between former Rizin Bantamweight Champion Manel Kape and Matheus Nicolau was expected to headline the event.

[3] The pairing previously met at UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Muhammad in March 2021 which Nicolau won by controversial split decision.

[4] Their second meeting was previously scheduled for UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Walker 2 in January 2024 but Kape missed weight and the bout was subsequently cancelled.

[5] In turn, Kape pulled out due to a rib injury and was replaced by former UFC Flyweight Championship challenger Alex Perez.

Both bouts proceeded at catchweight with both fighters forfeiting 20% of their purses, which went to their opponents Chris Padilla and Jonathan Pearce, respectively.