UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Hernandez - Prelims Preview and Picks
- Kingpin
- Aug 7, 2025, 3:52:52 AM
UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Hernandez - Prelims Preview and Picks
The UFC returns to the APEX in Las Vegas on August 9, 2025, for UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Hernandez. The preliminary card features a mix of rising prospects and seasoned veterans looking to make their mark. Here's a breakdown of each prelim fight with a pick for who will emerge victorious.
Light Heavyweight: Julius Walker vs. Rafael Cerqueira
Julius Walker (6-1-0) vs. Rafael Cerqueira (11-2-0)
Odds: Walker -700, Cerqueira +450
Analysis: Julius Walker is a significant favorite here for a reason. He's a powerful striker with a high finish rate, having secured most of his wins via KO/TKO. Cerqueira, on the other hand, is also a finisher but has shown some defensive vulnerabilities. Walker's recent track record of TKO wins, including a first-round stoppage of UFC vet Bevon Lewis, indicates he's a serious threat. Cerqueira's last loss was a first-round KO to Ibo Aslan in October 2024. While both fighters possess knockout power, Walker's precision and recent form suggest he's the more polished striker in this matchup.
Bantamweight: Elijah Smith vs. Toshiomi Kazama
Elijah Smith (8-1-0) vs. Toshiomi Kazama (11-4-0)
Odds: Smith -800, Kazama +500
Analysis: This bantamweight bout pits a highly-favored prospect against a struggling veteran. Elijah Smith, with only one professional loss, is a young fighter with a solid all-around game. He's known for his potential and ability to win rounds. Toshiomi Kazama has faced a tough run in his UFC career, with three losses in his last four fights. While Kazama is a durable fighter, Smith's youth, skill set, and momentum make him a formidable opponent. Expect Smith to control the pace and secure a clear victory, likely on the judges' scorecards.
Women's Bantamweight: Joselyne Edwards vs. Priscila Cachoeira
Joselyne Edwards (15-6-0) vs. Priscila Cachoeira (13-6-0)
Odds: Edwards -300, Cachoeira +240
Analysis: This fight pits two bantamweights with a penchant for high-volume striking. Joselyne Edwards has a diverse skill set but has been inconsistent at times. Priscila Cachoeira is a powerful striker who is known for her aggressive style and ability to put opponents away. However, Cachoeira's reckless approach often leaves her vulnerable to being out-struck or taken down. Edwards is the more technical and well-rounded fighter, and she should be able to utilize her reach and superior footwork to outpoint Cachoeira. While Cachoeira's power is a constant threat, Edwards is the safer and more likely pick for a decision win.
Welterweight: Uros Medic vs. Gilbert Urbina
Uros Medic (10-3-0) vs. Gilbert Urbina (7-4-0)
Odds: Odds not available. Based on available data, Medic is a clear favorite.
Analysis: Uros Medic is an explosive striker with a high percentage of knockout victories. He comes into this fight looking to rebound from a recent loss. Gilbert Urbina, a veteran of The Ultimate Fighter, has a more well-rounded game but has shown a vulnerability to powerful strikers. Medic’s primary path to victory is a knockout, and Urbina’s struggles with absorbing powerful blows make this a favorable matchup for the Serbian fighter. While Urbina has grappling skills, Medic's striking output and power should be too much to handle.
Women's Flyweight: Gabriella Fernandes vs. Julija Stoliarenko
Gabriella Fernandes (10-3-0) vs. Julija Stoliarenko (11-9-2)
Odds: Fernandes -475, Stoliarenko +340
Analysis: Gabriella Fernandes is a well-rounded fighter with a strong ground game, coming off two recent victories. Julija Stoliarenko is an elite grappler, specifically known for her armbar submissions, but has struggled with consistency and striking defense. While Stoliarenko has a path to victory via submission if she can get the fight to the ground, Fernandes is the more active and technical striker. Fernandes will likely be able to keep the fight on the feet and outpoint Stoliarenko for three rounds, or potentially land a ground-and-pound TKO if she gets top position. Fernandes's recent form and overall skill set make her the clear favorite in this bout.
