UFC News Update: Marvin Vettori Eyes Comeback, Jeremy Stephens' Return, Bo Nickal's Next Fight, and More – March 13, 2025
UFC News Update: March 13, 2025
The world of mixed martial arts is abuzz with significant developments, from unexpected comebacks to upcoming fight announcements. Here's a roundup of the latest UFC news as of March 13, 2025.
Jeremy Stephens Returns to the UFC
Veteran fighter Jeremy Stephens is set to make a surprising return to the UFC. After a stint outside the organization, Stephens will face Mason Jones at UFC Des Moines on May 3. This event marks the UFC's inaugural visit to Des Moines, Iowa, and fans are eager to see how "Lil Heathen" performs in his comeback bout.
Bo Nickal vs. Reinier de Ridder Set for UFC Des Moines
In addition to Stephens' return, UFC Des Moines will feature a compelling middleweight matchup between Bo Nickal and Reinier de Ridder. Nickal, a former Penn State wrestling standout, has been impressive in his MMA career, boasting an undefeated record. De Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE Championship, has transitioned smoothly into the UFC with consecutive submission victories.
Marvin Vettori Eyes Comeback at UFC Vegas 104
Middleweight contender Marvin Vettori is set to headline UFC Vegas 104 on March 15 in a rematch against Roman Dolidze. Vettori aims to reestablish himself as a top contender in the division after a decision loss to Jared Cannonier in June 2023. He acknowledges the increasing competitiveness of the middleweight division and is determined to showcase his readiness for a title shot.
Jalin Turner's Retirement Announcement
Lightweight fighter Jalin Turner announced his retirement following a loss to Ignacio Bahamondes at UFC 313. At 29, Turner cited a loss of focus and passion for the sport as reasons for stepping away. However, he has left the door open for a potential return in the future, stating, "We'll see what the future holds."
Alex Pereira's Coaches Dispute UFC 313 Decision
After Alex Pereira's unanimous decision loss to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, his coaches, Plinio Cruz and Glover Teixeira, expressed disagreement with the judges' scoring. They believe Pereira won the first, third, and fifth rounds and are confident he will return stronger in a potential rematch, promising a more formidable "Poatan 2.0."
Justin Gaethje Seeks Lightweight Title Shot
Following his victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, Justin Gaethje has expressed his desire for a title shot at the unified 155-pound belt. Initially unsure about his next opponent, Gaethje ruled out a trilogy with Dustin Poirier and took to social media to declare his interest in fighting the division champion, Islam Makhachev. He highlighted his recent performance, winning three out of his last four fights, and stressed his readiness for the title fight.
Ronda Rousey's Training Footage Sparks Comeback Speculation
Former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey has sparked hopes of a UFC comeback after sharing new training footage. Focusing on wrestling with the WWE until 2023, Rousey had stepped away from combat sports to concentrate on her family life. Recently, she astonished fans by returning to rigorous training and posted a video on Instagram showing her training with former UFC rival, Cat Zingano, who she famously defeated in 2015. With heartfelt captions, Rousey expressed rediscovering the fun in training. Despite the excitement and fans urging her return to the UFC, Rousey reiterated her inability to fight again due to multiple past concussions, which make competing unsafe.
Daniel Cormier Questions Alex Pereira's Potential at Heavyweight
UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has expressed skepticism about Alex Pereira's prospects in the heavyweight division. Following Pereira's loss to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, Cormier commented on the challenges Pereira might face against larger opponents, suggesting that the light heavyweight division might be his upper limit.
Upcoming Event: UFC Fight Night: Vettori vs. Dolidze 2
Don't miss UFC Fight Night: Vettori vs. Dolidze 2, live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 15, 2025. Prelims start at 4 p.m. ET, followed by the main card.
Stay tuned for more updates as the UFC continues to deliver thrilling matchups and compelling storylines.
