[2][3] The event marked the promotion's fourth visit to Tampa and first since UFC Fight Night: Joanna vs. Waterson in October 2019.

[3] A welterweight bout between Joaquin Buckley and Ian Machado Garry was expected to headline the event.

[9] However, Cortez was forced to withdraw due to health issues that required her to have surgery and was replaced by former LFA Women's Flyweight Champion Jamey-Lyn Horth.

[14] The duo previously met at the promotion's last visit to Tampa, when Ribas won by unanimous decision.

[15] However, the bout was moved to January 11, 2025 to serve as the main event at UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Ribas 2.