The highly-anticipated clash between Uros Medic and Punahele Soriano is set to kick off the UFC Fight Night 249 main card, taking place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on Saturday. As seasoned fighters within the welterweight division, both competitors carry unique fighting styles and a compelling backstory into the octagon, making this bout one to watch for fans and analysts alike. With both fighters eager to consolidate their positions within the UFC, this matchup presents a significant opportunity for a decisive victory.
Uros Medic, a Serbian fighter with a professional record of 10 wins and 2 losses (4-2 in the UFC), will be seeking to build on his recent success. He made an impressive comeback from a previous submission loss with a stunning first-round knockout of Tim Means in April—the only bout he has fought thus far in 2024. Medic’s ability to rebound quickly speaks to his resilience and skill set, positioning him as a formidable opponent as he steps back into the octagon.
Conversely, Punahele Soriano enters the ring with a record of 10 wins and 4 losses (4-4 in the UFC). Coming off a unanimous decision victory against Miguel Baeza, Soriano looks to capitalize on his rebound after enduring a challenging two-fight stoppage streak prior to his last fight. Both fighters share an upward momentum, bringing intensity and determination into what promises to be a thrilling welterweight war.
The stylistic matchup is particularly intriguing as both Medic and Soriano are southpaw fighters. Soriano carries an 0-1 record against opponents of similar stances in the UFC, showcasing a potential vulnerability that he will need to address. Medic, while split in his history with fellow southpaws, also displays mixed results, standing at 1-1. On the feet, Soriano’s wrestling and judo background could serve as a game-changer, particularly in how he might leverage takedowns and pressure Medic.
Defensively, both fighters exhibit challenges when it comes to absorbing body strikes, which may be a crucial factor in this smaller octagon environment. Medic tends to retreat linearly when cornered, a strategy that could work to Soriano’s advantage as he looks to dictate the pace and rhythm of the fight.
The oddsmakers currently favor Medic with odds of -215 against Soriano’s +180, suggesting that the betting public perceives Medic as the favorite to win. This sentiment reflects Medic’s recent victory and overall fighting style that excites audiences. However, the unpredictability of fight night dynamics means that Soriano could flip the narrative, particularly if he utilizes his wrestling skills effectively to transition the fight towards grappling exchanges.
The fight is set to take place around 7:10 p.m. ET and will be available to stream on ESPN+. As both fighters prepare to showcase their talents, anticipation builds for an electrifying opener that could very well set the tone for the rest of the event.