UFC

UFC Vegas 104: Biggest Underdog of the Night Headlines Four Performance Bonuses

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By
Garrett Kerman
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Garrett Kerman Sports Editor

Garrett Kerman also goes by the name of The Fight Analyst. He covers all combat sports, from MMA, to boxing, to even bare-knuckle. He is also very well-versed in all American sports when it comes to news and betting analysis. Whether you want betting advice or some breaking news, Garrett is your guy.

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Published17 Mar 2025

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UFC Vegas 104, held at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, delivered an action-packed event that saw Roman Dolidze secure a unanimous decision victory over Marvin Vettori in the main event. The highly anticipated rematch was a testament to Dolidze’s growth and strategic approach, as he outmaneuvered Vettori over five rounds to win with scores of 49-46 across the board. This victory marked Dolidze’s third consecutive win and positioned him for a potential top-five fight in the middleweight division.

The event also featured a co-main event where Chidi Njokuani dominated Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, finishing him with a second-round TKO. Njokuani’s impressive performance showcased his skill in using range and front kicks to overwhelm his opponents.

Beyond the main and co-main events, UFC Vegas 104 was highlighted by four exceptional performances that earned fighters $50,000 bonuses each. These bonuses were awarded to Carli Judice, Priscila Cachoeira, Andre Lima, and Carlos Vera for their outstanding displays of skill and determination.

Carli Judice: A Thunderous Start

Carli Judice kicked off UFC Vegas 104 with a bang, securing a Performance of the Night bonus for her first-round TKO victory over Yuneisy Duben. Judice’s fight lasted just 1:40, as she landed a devastating head kick followed by punches that left Duben unable to continue. This performance not only marked Judice’s first UFC win but also set the tone for an exciting night of fights. Her ability to finish the fight quickly and decisively earned her the recognition and the bonus.

Judice’s victory was particularly impressive given that Duben was a popular upset pick, having trained with former UFC champion Rose Namajunas. Judice’s win showcased her potential as a rising star in the women’s division, and her bonus was well-deserved for the highlight-reel finish she provided.

Priscila Cachoeira: Instant Impact

Priscila Cachoeira also earned a Performance of the Night bonus for her knockout victory over Josiane Nunes. Cachoeira’s fight ended in just 2:46 of the first round, as she caught Nunes with a perfectly timed uppercut that sent her crashing to the canvas. This knockout was a testament to Cachoeira’s power and precision, as she capitalized on Nunes’s aggressive approach to secure the win.

Cachoeira’s performance was notable for its brutality and efficiency. Her ability to end the fight with a single strike demonstrated her formidable punching power, making her a force to be reckoned with in her division.

Andre Lima: Submission Mastery

Andre Lima secured his Performance of the Night bonus with a third-round submission victory over Daniel Barez. Lima’s win showcased his grappling prowess, as he managed to finish the fight with a submission in the final round. This performance highlighted Lima’s ability to adapt and capitalize on his opponent’s mistakes, leading to a well-deserved bonus.

Lima’s victory was a testament to his patience and skill in the grappling department. His ability to secure a submission in the later stages of the fight demonstrated his endurance and strategic thinking, making him a formidable opponent in the division.

Carlos Vera: The Upset of the Night

Carlos Vera pulled off the biggest upset of the night, defeating the heavily favored Josias Musasa via first-round submission. Vera’s victory was set up by a stunning right head kick that left Musasa hurt, followed by a rear-naked choke that forced the tap at 3:16 of the first round[4]. This performance not only earned Vera a Performance of the Night bonus but also marked his first UFC win.

Vera’s upset was significant, given Musasa’s undefeated record and status as a betting favorite. Vera’s ability to capitalize on Musasa’s aggression and secure a finish showcased his skill and composure under pressure, making him an exciting prospect to watch in the future.

In conclusion, UFC Vegas 104 was a memorable event that highlighted the talent and resilience of fighters across various divisions. The four performance bonuses awarded to Carli Judice, Priscila Cachoeira, Andre Lima, and Carlos Vera were well-deserved, each showcasing unique aspects of MMA excellence. As the UFC continues to feature exciting matchups and emerging talent, events like UFC Vegas 104 remind fans why the organization remains at the forefront of mixed martial arts.