UFC Vegas 100: Changes to card ahead of weekend's event

Neil Magny Instagram (November 2024)

UFC’s Vegas 100 event, set to mark a historic milestone at the APEX facility in Las Vegas, has seen some last-minute changes. This Saturday’s card was intended to be packed with exciting matchups, but the event took a hit with the withdrawal of two fan-favorite fighters.

The main event still features a clash between welterweight contenders Neil Magny and Carlos Prates, along with the UFC debut of former ONE Championship titleholder Reinier de Ridder. But unfortunately, former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt and seasoned welterweight Nicolas Dalby won’t be joining them in the Octagon.

Garbrandt vs. Johns falls through again

Cody Garbrandt was slated to face Miles Johns in a highly anticipated bout, but for the second time, this match has been canceled. Originally moved from UFC Vegas 98 to the Vegas 100 card, Garbrandt’s withdrawal, which remains unexplained, leaves Johns without an opponent just days before the event. The promotion is trying to find a last-minute replacement, but time is tight.

Dalby Out, Replacement steps in

Nicolas Dalby, another experienced fighter with a history of memorable matches, also had to pull out due to an injury. Dalby shared on social media that he was “leaner than ever” and “ready to go,” but the injury made it impossible to compete at his best. Stepping in for Dalby is newcomer Zach Scroggin, who will face Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos instead.

Future of UFC APEX Events

The UFC APEX facility, initially established as a pandemic-era solution, has become a staple in the promotion's calendar. UFC’s Vice President, Dave Shaw, recently confirmed that while more events will be held outside the APEX in 2025, the intimate Vegas venue isn’t going anywhere. Its convenience for fighters, fans, and the organization itself makes it a valuable asset, allowing for more flexibility in the UFC’s schedule.

UFC Vegas 100 might have seen some changes, but fans can still expect an action-packed night with plenty of thrilling matchups, setting the stage for another year of unforgettable fights in the APEX.