The UFC`s August 2nd fight card, currently dubbed UFC Vegas 108, is shaping up with a significant welterweight encounter. According to reports, seasoned veteran and the division`s all-time wins leader, Neil Magny, is slated to return to the octagon to face Brazil`s Elizeu Zaleski. The bout is expected to take place at the UFC APEX facility.
For the 37-year-old Magny (29-13), this booking comes after a previously scheduled July 19th fight was cancelled. The “Haitian Sensation,” who turns 38 the day after the proposed event date, is looking to reverse a recent slide. He`s currently on a two-fight losing streak, dropping bouts to rising prospects Michael Morales and Carlos Prates. Despite these recent setbacks, Magny`s resume speaks for itself, featuring an impressive 22 victories inside the octagon since his 2012 debut, including notable wins over former UFC champions like Robbie Lawler, Carlos Condit, and Johny Hendricks. His longevity and consistent activity have cemented his place in the UFC record books.
Across the octagon stands Elizeu Zaleski (25-9-1), known for his dynamic “Capoeira” style. Zaleski is also aiming to get back into the win column following a second-round TKO loss to Chidi Njokuani in March 2025. Prior to that, he secured a finish against a short-notice opponent. Zaleski had built momentum with victories over tough competitors such as Benoit Saint-Denis and Abubakar Nurmagomedov, but a majority draw result against Rinat Fakhretdinov seemed to mark a turning point, preceding his recent 1-2 stretch.
This welterweight clash adds an intriguing layer to the UFC Vegas 108 lineup, which is reportedly headlined by a flyweight bout between Amir Albazi and Tatsuro Taira. For both Magny and Zaleski, the fight represents a critical opportunity to regain traction in a demanding division. It`s a classic veteran vs. veteran matchup where ring IQ and experience will be on full display. While Magny seeks to prove his status amidst a younger wave of contenders, Zaleski needs to show he can consistently overcome high-level opposition to climb the ranks.
The booking positions two fighters in similar situations – needing a win to stay relevant in the packed welterweight division. It might not have the immediate title implications of other fights, but for those involved, and for fans who appreciate the craft of experienced mixed martial artists, this promises to be a meaningful contest at the UFC APEX.
