In less than a month, the UFC is returning to Nashville with a heavyweight clash. Bridgestone Arena is going to host the fight between “The Black Beast” Derrick Lewis and the rising Brazilian knockout artist Tallison Teixeira on July 12, 2025. Both fighters are known for delivering an exciting performance. Derrick Lewis, who is the ex-world titleholder and ranked No. 9 at the moment, will be facing Tallison Teixeira, currently No. 14, and both are preparing for a proper face-off. Additionally, crowd favorite lightweight No. 15 Calvin Kattar is going to face Steven Garcia.
Tickets for the Fight Night went on sale only moments after the location was officially published. Already, the ticket counts are low, as fans are keen to smell the battle-filled air in person. Fans who are watching from across the world are anticipating more than just the fight lineup. As a big part of sports culture, bets have already been placed on the expected outcome. Fans worldwide who are following the news and participating in sports betting are turning more towards crypto betting sites, as they allow for fast transactions, global access, and eliminate currency exchange fees.
It’s going to be the first time that the UFC is returning to Nashville since the city last hosted the promotion for UFC on ESPN in August 2023. This will be the seventh time, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect to shine the light on a heavyweight face-off where experience meets young strength.
The Black Beast Lewis enters this contest as one of the most feared strikers in UFC heavyweight history. Although he already is 40 years old, it doesn’t look like his career is coming to an end anytime soon. Standing at 6’3″ (191 cm), with a 79‑inch (200 cm) reach and a solid 266 lb (121 kg), he is considered a strong competitor in the heavyweight division. Since he became pro in 2010, he has landed a 28‑12‑0 record and is still holding the UFC all‑time knockout record. Over the years, Lewis has knocked out some notable opponents such as Marcin Tybura, Alexander Volkov, and Curtis Blaydes.
Lewis is known for delivering highlight-reel finishes and an aggressive, free-swinging style. Even setbacks like losing to Daniel Cormier in 2018 haven’t put him down. Always coming back stronger, Lewis doesn’t stop delivering to his fans with more power and more knockouts.
Only 25 years old, Tallison Teixeira is arguably a sturdy opponent for Lewis. Despite having less experience, Teixeira, a 6’7” (ca. 2 m) Brazilian heavyweight, is on the rise. He made his name in the UFC scene with a definitive first-round KO win over Arthur Lopes on Dana White’s Contender Series in September 2024. Currently ranked as No. 14 in the UFC heavyweights, Teixeira is up to prove his talent. By taking on and potentially defeating a seasoned fighter, Teixeira could establish himself as a worthy contender.
Tickets for this special fight are selling like hotcakes. What makes this fight extraordinary is not the immense power of the opponents but the clash of different styles. Lewis’ strength lies almost exclusively in his power and aggressive approach, and he is particularly known for his brawler style. Teixeira, however, could make up for his lack of punching power with his all-rounder potential. He can both strike and grapple, which could give him an advantage.
The UFC Night Fight on July 12 holds expectations. Although Nashville has hosted premier MMA cards before, this heavyweight face-off is going to make history and will take the spotlight in the UFC’s summer lineup. Fans worldwide, live and online, are excited about the event, which promises a spectacular comeback for the UFC’s return to Nashville.
