As the global Mixed Martial Arts community turns its gaze toward Perth, Australia, anticipation builds for UFC Fight Night 260 on Saturday, September 27, 2025. While the headline bout promises a compelling clash between Carlos Ulberg and Dominick Reyes, a particular lightweight encounter on the undercard has captured the attention of enthusiasts and analysts alike: the showdown between Australia`s own Tom Nolan and the USA`s Charlie Campbell. This isn`t just another preliminary fight; it`s a strategic battle between two burgeoning talents eager to carve their definitive mark in the notoriously unforgiving UFC landscape.
The Lightweight Arena: `Big Train` vs. `The Cannibal`
The narrative of this fight is as compelling as the athletes themselves. Tom Nolan, affectionately dubbed `Big Train` from Brisbane, strides into the octagon with an impressive professional record of 9 wins and just 1 loss, five of which ended emphatically by knockout. His recent unanimous decision victory in February 2025 underscores a consistent upward trajectory. Nolan embodies the modern Australian fighter – technically sound, aggressive, and undeniably resilient. At 188 cm and 70.3 kg, he possesses a reach advantage and a power that belies his lightweight frame.
Across from him stands Charlie Campbell, known by the rather intimidating moniker `The Cannibal.` Hailing from New York, Campbell mirrors Nolan`s record with 9 wins and 2 losses, six of his victories secured by knockout. His last triumph came via decision in April 2024. Campbell, at 183 cm and also 70.3 kg, brings a different flavor of aggression to the cage – a relentless pressure fighter with a knack for finding the finish. The nicknames alone suggest a collision of forces: a powerful locomotive meeting a voracious predator. One might wonder if the marketing departments had too much fun, but the intensity in their fighting styles suggests these monikers are earned, not merely assigned.
Tale of the Tape:
- Tom Nolan (Australia): 188 cm / 70.3 kg | Record: 9-1-0 (5 KOs)
- Charlie Campbell (USA): 183 cm / 70.3 kg | Record: 9-2-0 (6 KOs)
Global Access: Catching the Action from Perth
UFC Fight Night 260, emanating from Perth`s RAC Arena, is strategically timed to accommodate a global audience. For fans in the United States, the main card festivities kick off at 07:00 PM EST on ESPN+. However, the specific ring walk time for Nolan vs. Campbell is estimated around 09:40 PM EST, subject to the pace of preceding bouts. This variable nature of fight times is, of course, part of the charm – or perhaps the mild frustration – of live combat sports.
Whether you`re sipping coffee in Sydney, enjoying an evening across the Atlantic, or just starting your day in North America, the UFC has made efforts to ensure widespread access. Below is a detailed breakdown of the main card start times, allowing you to synchronize your schedules to catch every punch and grapple.
| Region | Date | Main Card Start Time | Tom Nolan vs Charlie Campbell Ring Walks (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA and Canada (EST) | Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 | 07:00 PM | 09:40 PM |
| USA and Canada (PT) | Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 | 04:00 PM | 06:40 PM |
| UK and Ireland (GMT) | Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 | 11:00 PM | 01:40 AM (next day) |
| Australia (AEDT) | Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025 | 10:00 AM | 12:40 PM |
The Betting Landscape: More Than Just Odds
For those who appreciate the quantifiable aspects of combat sports, the betting odds offer an intriguing lens through which to view the Nolan vs. Campbell bout. Currently, Tom Nolan is favored at 1.0 (even money), indicating strong confidence from oddsmakers in his victory. Charlie Campbell, as the underdog, offers returns at 2.2 (+125), suggesting that a successful wager on `The Cannibal` could yield a significant profit for the discerning punter.
Interestingly, the odds for a knockout victory for either fighter are not prominently listed, pushing the focus towards decision outcomes. A win for Nolan by decision is valued at 4.8 (+380), while a decision victory for Campbell presents an even higher return at 7.5 (+650). This suggests that while both fighters possess knockout power, a tactical, prolonged contest ending with judges` scorecards is considered a very real possibility by the bookmakers. It`s a testament to the evolving nature of MMA, where raw power is increasingly met with sophisticated defense and strategic game plans.
Beyond the Spotlight: The Full Fight Card
While Nolan vs. Campbell promises a compelling undercard spectacle, UFC Fight Night 260 features a full roster of talent, showcasing various weight classes and fighting styles. The main event, as mentioned, pits Carlos Ulberg against Dominick Reyes – a clash that could redefine the trajectory of either fighter`s career. The card is packed with established names and rising contenders, ensuring an action-packed night for fans.
Key Bouts to Watch:
- Carlos Ulberg vs Dominick Reyes (Main Event)
- Jimmy Crute vs Ivan Erslan
- Jack Jenkins vs Ramon Taveras
- Jake Matthews vs Neil Magny
- Tom Nolan vs Charlie Campbell (Featured Lightweight Bout)
- Navajo Stirling vs Rodolfo Bellato
- Konklak Suphisara vs Alexia Thainara
- Jamie Mullarkey vs Rolando Bedoya
A Night of Australian Action
UFC Fight Night 260 in Perth is more than just another event on the calendar; it`s a significant moment for the sport in Australia and a critical juncture for many fighters. The Nolan vs. Campbell lightweight clash, with its blend of national pride and raw talent, exemplifies the excitement bubbling just beneath the surface of the main event. It`s an opportunity for two young fighters to step out of the shadow and prove their mettle on a global stage. As the countdown to September 27, 2025, continues, fans worldwide eagerly await what promises to be a memorable night of mixed martial arts.
Felix Harwood