As the mixed martial arts world turns its gaze to the vibrant city of New Orleans for UFC 318, anticipation rightly builds for the main event featuring Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier`s eagerly awaited third encounter. However, nestled within the undercard of this monumental event, on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center, lies a middleweight clash that promises to deliver just as much strategic intrigue and raw excitement: Brunno `The Hulk` Ferreira squaring off against Jackson `The Moose` McVey.
This isn`t merely another preliminary bout; it`s a meticulously crafted stylistic collision, a true testament to the varied disciplines that define professional MMA. Here, we delve into the profiles of two distinct combatants, each bringing a unique set of skills and an unyielding will to emerge victorious.
Brunno `The Hulk` Ferreira: The Brazilian Submission Sorcerer
Hailing from Brazil, a nation synonymous with grappling excellence, Brunno Ferreira (13-2-0) lives up to his formidable moniker, `The Hulk.` Standing at 178 cm (5`10″) and weighing in at 83.9 kg (185 lbs), Ferreira is a true middleweight force. His professional record, boasting 13 victories with a notable 9 via knockout, might suggest a striking focus, but it`s his deep-rooted grappling skills, honed through the Brazilian TKO Association, that truly set him apart.
Ferreira`s recent submission victory over Armen `Superman` Petrosyan served as a stark reminder of his prowess on the mat. He possesses a submission finesse that can turn any grappling exchange into a precarious situation for his opponents. His comfort in close quarters and ability to capitalize on defensive errors make him particularly dangerous against brawlers who prioritize power over precision. For Ferreira, every takedown is an opportunity, and every scramble is a path to a finish.
Jackson `The Moose` McVey: The Undefeated American Powerhouse
On the opposite side of the octagon stands Jackson McVey (6-0-0), an American prodigy carrying the imposing nickname `The Moose.` At 193 cm (6`4″) and matching Ferreira`s 83.9 kg, McVey possesses a significant height and reach advantage. His undefeated record is a clear indicator of his dominant trajectory in the sport, forged through the ranks of St. Charles MMA, known for its KO-trained arsenal.
McVey`s primary weapon is his potent striking. His recent performance, where he rendered Mataeo “Top Ape” Garner defenseless, underscored his ability to dispatch opponents with chilling efficiency. While his record gleams with perfection, his unblemished professional slate is about to face its sternest test yet – a deep dive into the unpredictable waters of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that Ferreira so expertly navigates. McVey`s journey has been one of pure, unadulterated striking dominance; now, he must prove his mettle against a different kind of threat.
The Stylistic Conundrum: Grappler vs. Striker
The essence of the Ferreira vs. McVey bout lies in its classic clash of styles. Will `The Moose` utilize his reach and knockout power to keep `The Hulk` at bay, delivering devastating blows from a distance? Or will Ferreira find the opportune moment to close the distance, secure a takedown, and drag the fight into his domain, where his submission artistry can truly shine?
McVey`s undefeated streak hinges on his ability to nullify Ferreira`s ground game. For Ferreira, the path to victory likely involves weathering the early striking storm and patiently seeking an entry to unleash his grappling. This isn`t just a fight; it`s a strategic chess match played at breakneck speed, where one misstep could lead to a sudden and definitive end.
Viewing Information for the Undercard Thriller
For those eager to witness this intriguing clash, the UFC 318 event kicks off from the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The main card is scheduled to begin at 06:00 PM EST, with Brunno Ferreira vs. Jackson McVey expected to make their ring walks around 06:20 PM EST. As always, fight timings can shift based on the preceding bouts, so it`s advisable to check local listings for the most precise schedule.
| Region | Date | Brunno Ferreira vs Jackson McVey Ring Walks (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| USA and Canada (EST) | Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 06:20 PM |
| USA and Canada (PT) | Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 03:20 PM |
| UK and Ireland (GMT) | Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 10:20 PM |
| Australia (AEDT) | Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 09:20 AM |
The broadcast for UFC 318 will be available on platforms such as DAZN, ESPN+, and TNT Sports in various regions. Fans are encouraged to consult their regional providers for specific access details.
Beyond the Main Event
While the spotlight shines brightest on the trilogy bout between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier, the entire UFC 318 card is stacked with compelling matchups. The Ferreira vs. McVey fight is a prime example of the depth and excitement that permeates throughout a major UFC event, often with undercard bouts stealing the show through unexpected finishes or breakout performances. The narrative of an undefeated striker confronting a seasoned grappling specialist is precisely what makes MMA endlessly fascinating.
Prepare for an evening where tactical genius meets raw power. Whether it`s the dominant grappling of `The Hulk` or the devastating strikes of `The Moose,` one thing is certain: the middleweight division is about to get a lot more interesting in New Orleans.
Tristan Blackwood