On March 14, 2026, the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, hosted UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos, a card packed with rising stars and veteran showdowns. The prelims delivered a mix of knockout victories, submission mastery, and dominant grappling performances, setting the stage for the main event. With fighters like Myktybek Orolbai and Elijah Smith making their mark, the night highlighted the UFC’s depth of talent across weight classes.
Key Takeaways from UFC Fight Night Prelims
- Myktybek Orolbai dominated Chris Curtis with superior grappling, setting a new welterweight takedown record.
- Elijah Smith extended his winning streak to eight with a second-round submission over SuYoung You.
- Manoel Sousa made his UFC debut count with a third-round knockout of Bolaji Oki.
- Bia Mesquita showcased world-class jiu-jitsu with a first-round submission of Montse Rendon.
- Eryk Anders announced his retirement after defeating Brad Tavares in a middleweight clash.
Myktybek Orolbai’s Grappling Masterclass Over Chris Curtis
Myktybek Orolbai, the 28-year-old Kyrgyzstan native, continued his ascent in the welterweight division with a unanimous decision victory over Chris Curtis. Orolbai’s relentless grappling pressure wore down the veteran, securing a 30-27 sweep on all judges’ scorecards. His performance set a new UFC record for the most takedowns in a welterweight bout, solidifying his reputation as a grappling specialist.
Orolbai is quickly becoming a dark horse threat in the welterweight division, with his debut win over Uros Medic continuing to age well now that 'The Doctor' has graduated into the Top 15.
The Rise of Myktybek Orolbai
Orolbai’s victory marked his third straight win and fifth in six UFC appearances. His ability to control the fight from the clinch and drag opponents to the mat has made him a formidable force. With his record-setting takedowns, Orolbai is poised to challenge for a top-15 ranking in the near future.
Elijah Smith’s Submission Expertise Shines in Bantamweight Bout
Elijah Smith, a product of Dana White’s Contender Series, extended his winning streak to eight with a second-round rear-naked choke submission over SuYoung You. The 23-year-old showcased his striking and grappling prowess, overcoming You’s wrestling dominance in the first round to secure the finish.
The 23-year-old is now 3-0 inside the Octagon and looking like an ascending force in the bantamweight division.
Smith’s Path to the Top
Smith’s performance highlighted his versatility, as he transitioned seamlessly from striking to submissions. His highlight-reel finish last August and this latest victory have positioned him as a contender to watch in the stacked bantamweight division.
Manoel Sousa’s Powerful UFC Debut
Manoel Sousa made an immediate impact in his UFC debut, knocking out Bolaji Oki with a devastating right hand at 4:12 of the third round. The Brazilian lightweight showcased his power and resilience, overcoming early adversity to secure the stoppage.
Now 14-1 overall with a dozen wins coming inside the distance, the 28-year-old Brazilian looks like he could be an all-action addition to the 155-pound weight class.
Sousa’s Future in the UFC
Sousa’s knockout victory was his second in as many UFC appearances, cementing his status as a rising star. His power and precision make him a dangerous opponent in the lightweight division, where he is expected to climb the rankings quickly.
Eryk Anders Retires After Middleweight Victory
Eryk Anders, the former Alabama linebacker, added another chapter to his storied career with a unanimous decision over Brad Tavares. The 30-27, 29-28, 29-28 victory marked his 18th win in 27 professional fights. Following the bout, Anders announced his retirement, ending a nine-year UFC career.
Anders hurt Tavares multiple times in the first, sitting him down and chasing a finish, only for the horn to sound.
Anders’ Legacy in MMA
Anders’ career spanned over a decade, during which he became known for his power and resilience. His retirement leaves a void in the middleweight division, where his experience and toughness were always a factor.
Bia Mesquita’s Dominant Performance
Bia Mesquita, the 10-time Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion, continued her undefeated streak with a first-round submission of Montse Rendon. Mesquita’s striking and grappling were on full display, as she secured the rear-naked choke in just 2:07 of the opening round.
Now 7-0 as a professional and showing big improvements each time out, the Brazilian rising star already looks like a force in the bantamweight division.
Mesquita’s Future in the UFC
Mesquita’s performance solidified her as a top prospect in the bantamweight division. Her world-class jiu-jitsu and improving striking make her a threat to any opponent in the weight class.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who won the main event at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos?
- The main event results were not included in the provided prelims recap. For the main event outcome, please refer to the full event coverage.
- How did Myktybek Orolbai set a new UFC record?
- Orolbai set a new record for the most takedowns in a welterweight bout during his victory over Chris Curtis, showcasing his dominant grappling skills.
- What was significant about Eryk Anders’ win over Brad Tavares?
- Anders’ victory over Tavares was his final UFC fight, as he announced his retirement following the bout, ending a nine-year career in the promotion.
