UFC on ESPN 65: Tavares Chases Bisping’s Record as Promotion Returns to Apex
There’s something about the UFC Apex that feels like coming home. After weeks on the road, the promotion is finally settling back into its Las Vegas headquarters for UFC on ESPN 65 this weekend, and I can’t help but feel a little nostalgic about it.
The highlight image of Gregory Rodrigues celebrating his victory over Brad Tavares at UFC Fight Night 236 tells part of the story, but there’s so much more happening as we approach this weekend’s event.
Tavares: The Silent Record Chaser
Let’s talk about Brad Tavares for a minute. The Hawaiian veteran has been quietly assembling one of the most impressive careers in UFC middleweight history. With 20 victories in the division, he’s just one win away from tying Michael Bisping’s all-time record of 21 wins in the weight class.
Think about that. In a division that’s seen legends like Anderson Silva, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya, it’s Tavares who stands on the precipice of history. That’s not just impressive—it’s mind-blowing when you realize how little fanfare has accompanied his journey.
The Apex Factor: Home Field Advantage?
The return to the Apex might not seem significant to casual fans, but for fighters and hardcore followers, this intimate venue creates a completely different fighting atmosphere. Without thousands of screaming fans, you can hear every coach’s instruction, every punch landing, and sometimes even the fighters’ breathing.
I’ve always found that Apex fights have a more technical feel—like watching a high-level sparring session with real consequences. Some fighters thrive in this environment, while others miss the adrenaline rush that comes with a packed arena.
Numbers That Tell Stories
Here’s something fascinating about this card that most headlines won’t mention: the statistical anomalies that make UFC on ESPN 65 worth watching:
| Stat Category | Notable Figure | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tavares UFC Wins | 20 | One away from Bisping’s middleweight record |
| Tavares UFC Appearances | 25 | Among most experienced active middleweights |
| Apex Events in 2024 | Growing | Return to “home base” after road events |
Beyond the Headlines: Fighters to Watch
While the main attractions will get plenty of coverage, I’m particularly interested in watching the evolution of several fighters on this card. The Apex has historically been a proving ground where future stars begin to shine.
Remember when we first saw Alex Pereira at the Apex? Or when Sean O’Malley was building his highlight reel during the pandemic era? There’s always someone on these cards who makes you think, “I’ll be seeing them in main events soon.”
The Vegas Advantage
There’s something special about UFC events in Las Vegas. The fighters are often more comfortable—many train there, some live there, and the routine of fighting in the sport’s unofficial headquarters brings a familiarity that can translate to better performances.
I’ve noticed that Vegas cards often deliver more technical fights. Without the travel fatigue and with many fighters having their full coaching staffs present, we tend to see more strategic battles rather than chaotic brawls.
What’s Next?
As the UFC settles back into the Apex for this event, I can’t help but wonder what narratives will emerge. Will Tavares equal Bisping’s record? Will we witness the birth of a new contender? Or will a veteran remind us why they’ve stuck around so long?
One thing’s for certain—despite the smaller venue and perhaps less mainstream attention, these Apex cards have a way of delivering memorable moments and career-defining performances.
What are you most looking forward to at UFC on ESPN 65? Are you tracking Tavares’ chase for the record, or is there another storyline that’s caught your attention? Either way, this weekend promises to deliver the high-level MMA action we’ve come to expect, just in a more intimate setting.
Source: MMA Junkie