UFC Nashville delivered one of the most exciting cards of 2025. From highlight-reel knockouts to slick submissions and back-and-forth decision wars, the event had it all. The action kicked off from the very first bout and didn’t slow down, culminating in another classic Derrick Lewis finish, complete with his signature post-fight antics.
Derrick Lewis vs. Tallison Teixeira
Heading into the main event, many believed the size and youth of Tallison Teixeira would be too much for the 40-year-old veteran. At 6 feet 8 inches and boasting an undefeated 8-0 record—all finishes—it looked like Lewis might be another stepping stone for the surging Brazilian.
But “The Black Beast” has never—and will never—be a stepping stone.
Despite early adversity after a punch grazed his eye, Lewis pressed forward, closed the distance, and landed a trademark bomb. A perfectly timed left hook clipped Teixeira on the chin, followed by vicious ground-and-pound that forced referee Jason Herzog to wave it off. Another highlight for the Lewis reel.
Now the question becomes: what’s next for the resurging heavyweight?
#4 Curtis Blaydes – Lightning Strikes Twice?
This is the fight that makes the most sense.
Lewis and Blaydes have shared the Octagon before, with Lewis scoring a devastating uppercut knockout in their first meeting. For Blaydes, this rematch offers a chance at redemption. After a recent lacklustre win over Rizvan Kuniev, “Razor” needs a statement victory—and avenging the worst knockout loss of his career would certainly qualify.
For Lewis, this is an opportunity to break back into the top five and make a serious title push. Blaydes’ elite wrestling would serve as a real test of whether Lewis is ready to contend for gold once again. If “The Black Beast” can stop Blaydes a second time, the title conversation becomes unavoidable.
Final Thoughts
Whatever the UFC decides, one thing is clear: never count out Derrick Lewis.
Heading into UFC Nashville, many thought Father Time might finally catch up to him. Instead, Lewis delivered yet another stunning finish that reminded everyone why he’s one of the most dangerous men in the division.
If he keeps this up, a title shot might not just be possible—it might be inevitable.
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