UFC Vegas 124 Prediction: Cortes-Acosta vs Walker Full Card Preview and Winner Picks

UFC Vegas 124 returns to Meta APEX in Las Vegas on November 7, 2026, with a newly arranged heavyweight main event. Waldo Cortes-Acosta will face Johnny Walker after Sean Brady withdrew from his scheduled fight against Gabriel Bonfim. The UFC Vegas 124 Prediction examines the updated 14-fight card, recent performances, and potential winners. Tatiana Suarez against Virna Jandiroba provides another important matchup in the women’s strawweight division.

UFC Vegas 124 Prediction: Main Event and Full Card Overview

UFC Vegas 124 will feature heavyweight contenders Waldo Cortes-Acosta (17-4) and Johnny Walker (23-10, 1 NC) in the main event. Their five-round contest will headline Saturday’s card at Meta APEX in Las Vegas. Both fighters enter with different recent results and considerable motivation.

Cortes-Acosta has suffered consecutive defeats against Alexander Volkov and Curtis Blaydes. However, his previous victories demonstrated effective boxing, durability, and knockout power. Walker enters after stopping Mick Parkin during his successful UFC heavyweight debut in October.

The co-main event features Tatiana Suarez (12-1) against Virna Jandiroba (23-4). Their strawweight matchup brings together two accomplished grapplers seeking another opportunity near the championship picture. Both fighters have previously challenged for the division’s highest honors.

Several emerging prospects also feature across the card, including Elijah Smith, Murtazali Magomedov, and Austin Bashi. The event provides opportunities for established fighters to rebuild momentum and younger competitors to move forward. However, the fight card remains subject to late changes.

UFC Vegas 124 Date, Venue and Start Time

Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs Johnny Walker Prediction

The heavyweight main event presents an interesting contrast between Cortes-Acosta’s measured boxing and Walker’s explosive striking. Both fighters accepted the headline opportunity after the original welterweight matchup was canceled. Their experience against established UFC opposition makes this a competitive contest despite the short preparation window.

Cortes-Acosta enters as the more established heavyweight contender. Walker brings greater height, reach, and an unpredictable attacking style following his move from light heavyweight. The matchup could depend on whether Walker establishes his preferred striking distance before Cortes-Acosta begins landing consistently.

Waldo Cortes-Acosta’s Recent Form

Cortes-Acosta built considerable momentum through victories against several experienced UFC heavyweights. He stopped Shamil Gaziev, Ante Delija, and Derrick Lewis during his recent successful run. Those results helped establish him among the division’s leading contenders.

However, his momentum slowed following consecutive unanimous decision defeats. Alexander Volkov used his technical striking to defeat the Dominican fighter earlier this year. Curtis Blaydes subsequently controlled important exchanges to secure another decision victory.

Cortes-Acosta now needs a strong performance to prevent a third consecutive defeat. His boxing experience and ability to absorb punishment remain important advantages. However, he must avoid allowing Walker to dictate the striking exchanges through speed and reach.

Johnny Walker’s Heavyweight Debut Changes His Career Direction

Walker moved into the UFC heavyweight division after spending several years competing at 205 pounds. His first appearance in the new weight class came against Mick Parkin at UFC 332. The Brazilian delivered an impressive first-round knockout through a powerful knee.

The victory demonstrated that Walker’s explosive offense can remain dangerous against larger opponents. His height and reach also provide advantages that many fighters lose when moving up a division. However, one heavyweight appearance cannot establish long-term consistency.

Walker previously suffered several knockout defeats during his light heavyweight career. Those results raised questions about his defensive discipline and ability to absorb powerful strikes. Cortes-Acosta could test those vulnerabilities if he closes the distance effectively.

Striking, Reach and Grappling Breakdown

Walker stands approximately 6 feet 6 inches tall and possesses an 82-inch reach. Cortes-Acosta measures approximately 6 feet 4 inches with a 78-inch reach. Those differences could help Walker establish kicks and long-range punches during the opening exchanges.

However, Cortes-Acosta has developed a reliable boxing approach built around combinations and controlled pressure. His ability to maintain balance and absorb strikes makes him difficult to finish. Walker must avoid becoming overly aggressive when attempting to land powerful attacks.

Neither fighter consistently relies on wrestling as a primary offensive weapon. Therefore, the contest could feature extended striking exchanges rather than prolonged grappling control. The fighter who manages distance and defensive positioning more effectively may gain the advantage.

UFC Vegas 124 Main Event Winner Pick

Walker presents a legitimate knockout threat because of his speed, reach, and creativity. His recent victory against Parkin also gives him momentum entering his second heavyweight appearance. However, his defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern against a powerful opponent.

Cortes-Acosta possesses more experience competing against established UFC heavyweights. His recent defeats came against accomplished contenders rather than inexperienced opponents. That level of competition could prove important if he survives Walker’s early attacks.

Our prediction favors Cortes-Acosta to establish his boxing and gradually increase his pressure. Walker could create problems during the opening exchanges, but sustained defensive discipline will be difficult. A damaging combination could eventually bring the contest to an end.

Final Prediction: Waldo Cortes-Acosta wins by TKO, Round 3.

A victory would help Cortes-Acosta regain momentum in the UFC heavyweight rankings. Walker could also move closer to the division’s leading contenders with another impressive heavyweight performance. Their matchup represents an important opportunity for both fighters.

Tatiana Suarez vs Virna Jandiroba Prediction

Tatiana Suarez faces Virna Jandiroba in a women’s strawweight matchup that could influence future championship opportunities. Both fighters possess high-level grappling abilities, although their preferred approaches differ. Suarez relies heavily on wrestling pressure, while Jandiroba brings extensive Brazilian jiu-jitsu experience.

Suarez enters with a 12-1 professional record following consecutive victories. She has previously challenged for UFC championship gold and remains a dangerous contender. However, injuries and periods of inactivity have interrupted her career progression.

Jandiroba enters with a 23-4 record and considerable experience against established strawweights. Her previous performances demonstrated strong positional control and submission skills. She also remains interested in another opportunity against champion Mackenzie Dern.

Wrestling vs Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Suarez’s strongest advantage comes from her takedowns and ability to control opponents from dominant positions. Her wrestling background allows her to dictate where important exchanges take place. However, Jandiroba possesses the grappling experience needed to challenge those positions.

The Brazilian must avoid spending prolonged periods underneath Suarez without creating submission opportunities. Her best chances could emerge during transitions or scrambles. However, Suarez has demonstrated the ability to maintain control while limiting opponents’ offensive options.

The striking exchanges could also influence the outcome. Neither fighter relies exclusively on high-volume boxing to win contests. Their willingness to engage in grappling makes positional control particularly important.

Suarez vs Jandiroba Winner Pick

Suarez has a strong opportunity to establish takedowns and control large portions of the contest. However, she must remain cautious against Jandiroba’s submission threats. The Brazilian could reverse the momentum if Suarez leaves an opening during a transition.

The three-round format may favor the fighter who establishes control early. Suarez’s wrestling provides a convincing route toward winning rounds without necessarily securing a submission. Jandiroba must create enough offense to prevent that strategy.

Final Prediction: Tatiana Suarez wins by unanimous decision.

Davey Grant vs Elijah Smith Prediction

Veteran bantamweight Davey Grant faces rising contender Elijah Smith in an important generational matchup. Grant brings years of UFC experience, while Smith has developed a reputation for athleticism and dangerous offensive techniques. Their contest could feature aggressive exchanges throughout three rounds.

Grant remains a competitive fighter despite approaching the later stages of his career. His willingness to exchange powerful punches has produced several entertaining performances. However, facing a younger opponent with strong wrestling creates additional challenges.

Smith has impressed during his early UFC appearances through physical strength, explosive attacks, and positional awareness. His ability to combine takedowns with striking could limit Grant’s opportunities. However, the English veteran remains dangerous during extended exchanges.

The key question concerns whether Smith can maintain control without exposing himself to damaging counters. Grant’s experience makes him capable of capitalizing on defensive mistakes. Nevertheless, Smith’s youth and athleticism provide important advantages.

Final Prediction: Elijah Smith wins by unanimous decision.

Seok Hyeon Ko vs Wellington Turman Prediction

South Korean welterweight Seok Hyeon Ko meets Wellington Turman in another important main-card contest. Both fighters have experience with grappling exchanges, although Ko often combines forward pressure with powerful striking. Turman brings submission skills and a willingness to compete from different positions.

Ko’s physical strength can create difficult situations for opponents who struggle with sustained pressure. His takedowns also provide opportunities to control rounds when striking exchanges become competitive. However, his recent defeat showed that maintaining offensive discipline remains important.

Turman could create submission opportunities if Ko leaves openings during grappling transitions. His jiu-jitsu background gives him tools to challenge aggressive wrestlers. However, he has previously struggled against opponents who maintain consistent pressure.

Ko appears better positioned to establish the pace and control important exchanges. Turman’s submission threat remains relevant, but he may struggle to maintain advantageous positions. The South Korean’s physical approach could eventually decide the contest.

Final Prediction: Seok Hyeon Ko wins by unanimous decision.

Billy Elekana vs Lucas Fernando Prediction

Billy Elekana faces Lucas Fernando in a light heavyweight contest featuring two fighters with different offensive strengths. Elekana brings physical power and developing grappling skills, while Fernando relies on technical striking. The matchup could depend on whether Elekana successfully closes the distance.

Elekana has demonstrated improvement through recent victories and greater willingness to use submissions. His aggressive approach can trouble opponents who struggle with physical pressure. However, he must avoid predictable entries against Fernando’s counterstriking.

Fernando enters with a reputation for accurate combinations and effective distance management. His background in regional MMA has provided experience against varied opposition. However, Elekana presents another demanding physical challenge.

Fernando’s ability to establish his striking range could prove decisive. He must avoid prolonged grappling exchanges and respond effectively when Elekana attacks. His cleaner offensive technique gives him a narrow advantage.

Final Prediction: Lucas Fernando wins by TKO, Round 2.

Andre Petroski vs Mantas Kondratavicius Prediction

Andre Petroski returns against Mantas Kondratavicius in a middleweight contest featuring contrasting approaches. Petroski brings established UFC experience and strong wrestling, while Kondratavicius offers aggressive striking. Their matchup could change quickly depending on who establishes control.

Petroski has previously troubled opponents through takedowns and positional pressure. His grappling remains an important weapon against competitors who prefer standing exchanges. However, maintaining that approach requires avoiding damaging strikes during entries.

Kondratavicius brings finishing potential and a willingness to attack aggressively. His striking could create opportunities if Petroski struggles to complete early takedowns. However, he must remain disciplined against an opponent capable of controlling extended ground exchanges.

The matchup appears closely contested because both fighters have clear paths to victory. Petroski could accumulate control time, while Kondratavicius can threaten a stoppage. Our pick favors the experienced wrestler’s ability to dictate the pace.

Final Prediction: Andre Petroski wins by submission, Round 2.

UFC Vegas 124 Preliminary Card Predictions

The preliminary card features eight matchups across several UFC weight divisions. Established fighters will compete alongside prospects seeking stronger positions within their respective categories. Several bouts also involve competitors making short-notice appearances or continuing their development after recent setbacks.

Thomas Petersen vs Gabriel Lorenço Prediction

Thomas Petersen faces Gabriel Lorenço in a heavyweight matchup featuring two physically powerful competitors. Petersen brings UFC experience and a grappling-oriented approach, while Lorenço enters with significant finishing potential. Their contest could depend on which fighter establishes control early.

Petersen often looks to pressure opponents and create takedown opportunities. However, he has struggled against powerful strikers during previous UFC appearances. Lorenço could capitalize if the American becomes predictable while closing the distance.

Lorenço demonstrated dangerous punching power during his Contender Series appearance. However, Petersen’s experience could create problems if the fight reaches the ground. The matchup presents an opportunity for both fighters to establish momentum.

Final Prediction: Gabriel Lorenço wins by TKO, Round 2.

Karine Silva vs Gabriella Fernandes Prediction

Karine Silva meets Gabriella Fernandes in a competitive women’s flyweight contest. Silva brings a submission-oriented approach and considerable finishing experience. Fernandes relies on controlled striking, movement, and improving positional awareness.

Silva’s best opportunity involves closing the distance and establishing grappling control. Her submission skills could become dangerous if Fernandes allows extended ground exchanges. However, Fernandes has demonstrated the ability to remain composed against difficult opponents.

Fernandes could win rounds through accurate strikes and effective movement. However, Silva’s finishing ability makes her dangerous whenever the contest reaches the canvas. The Brazilian grappler may only need one significant positional advantage.

Final Prediction: Karine Silva wins by submission, Round 2.

Mitch Raposo vs Marcos Degli Prediction

Mitch Raposo faces Marcos Degli in a flyweight matchup featuring two fighters seeking important progress. Raposo brings a balanced fighting style, while Degli has demonstrated dangerous offensive abilities. Their contest could feature fast exchanges and frequent changes in position.

Raposo may attempt to establish a measured pace through striking and defensive wrestling. However, Degli could challenge that approach through pressure and aggressive combinations. The opening round may reveal which fighter can control the distance.

Degli appears particularly dangerous when he establishes offensive momentum. However, Raposo’s discipline could make the matchup competitive across three rounds. Our prediction favors Degli to produce the cleaner offensive moments.

Final Prediction: Marcos Degli wins by unanimous decision.

Jose Delano vs Murtazali Magomedov Prediction

Jose Delano faces Murtazali Magomedov in an intriguing featherweight contest between emerging UFC talents. Both fighters have earned attention through their recent performances. However, their preferred approaches create an interesting contrast.

Delano brings technical striking and the ability to maintain a consistent pace. His offensive combinations can create advantages when opponents allow extended exchanges. However, Magomedov has demonstrated significant finishing potential during his recent appearances.

Magomedov’s aggressive style could help him disrupt Delano’s rhythm before the Brazilian settles into the contest. However, excessive pressure could also expose defensive openings. Both fighters must remain disciplined during early exchanges.

The matchup could remain competitive if Delano establishes his preferred distance. Nevertheless, Magomedov’s power and ability to capitalize on mistakes provide a convincing finishing opportunity.

Final Prediction: Murtazali Magomedov wins by TKO, Round 2.

Ollie Schmid vs Keiichiro Nakamura Prediction

Ollie Schmid meets Keiichiro Nakamura in another featherweight contest featuring developing prospects. Nakamura brings a reputation for aggressive striking and offensive creativity. Schmid will look to challenge that approach through his own technical preparation.

Nakamura’s ability to attack from different angles could create problems during standing exchanges. However, Schmid may find opportunities if he can limit those movements and establish a consistent pace. Defensive discipline will become especially important.

The Japanese prospect appears to have the stronger offensive finishing potential. His willingness to pressure opponents could produce openings during the early rounds. However, he must avoid becoming careless while searching for a stoppage.

Final Prediction: Keiichiro Nakamura wins by TKO, Round 2.

Austin Bashi vs Carlos Calderon Prediction

Austin Bashi (14-2) will face Carlos Calderon (11-4, 1 NC) after Lucas Brennan withdrew from the scheduled matchup. Calderon accepted the featherweight contest with only four days’ notice. His appearance comes after winning three consecutive fights and successfully defending his Fury FC championship.

Bashi enters after losing a unanimous decision against Jose Delgado in July. However, he previously demonstrated his submission skills with a first-round finish against John Yannis. His wrestling and positional control could become important against the newcomer.

Calderon brings regional championship experience and strong submission credentials. However, accepting a UFC debut on short notice creates questions about preparation and conditioning. Bashi could exploit those circumstances by maintaining consistent grappling pressure.

The matchup presents opportunities for both fighters, but Bashi’s UFC experience provides a slight advantage. Calderon remains dangerous during submission exchanges, particularly if Bashi makes defensive mistakes. Nevertheless, sustained positional control could decide the contest.

Final Prediction: Austin Bashi wins by unanimous decision.

Priscila Cachoeira vs Nina Milosevic Prediction

Priscila Cachoeira faces Nina Milosevic in a women’s bantamweight contest featuring two aggressive competitors. Cachoeira brings considerable UFC experience and dangerous punching power. Milosevic enters with an opportunity to establish herself against a recognizable opponent.

Cachoeira often relies on forward pressure and powerful exchanges rather than prolonged defensive movement. That approach can create finishing opportunities but also leaves openings for opponents. Milosevic must remain composed if the fight becomes aggressive.

The matchup could produce significant striking exchanges during the opening round. However, Cachoeira’s experience against established UFC opposition gives her an advantage. Her ability to apply pressure could eventually force a stoppage.

Final Prediction: Priscila Cachoeira wins by TKO, Round 2.

Jose Souza vs Jonny Parsons Prediction

Jose Souza meets Jonny Parsons in a welterweight contest featuring contrasting experience levels. Parsons has competed against established opponents and understands the demands of UFC competition. Souza brings an aggressive approach and an opportunity to make an impression.

Parsons could find success through measured striking and defensive awareness. However, Souza may attempt to disrupt that rhythm with forward pressure. The fighter who controls exchanges near the fence could gain an important advantage.

Souza’s offensive aggression provides a possible route toward a finish. Nevertheless, Parsons has the experience to make the contest competitive if he avoids early mistakes. Our prediction favors Souza to establish momentum and control the stronger exchanges.

Final Prediction: Jose Souza wins by unanimous decision.

UFC Vegas 124 Prediction: Complete Fight Card and Winner Picks

The following table summarizes our predictions for all 14 scheduled contests. These selections are based on fighter form, technical strengths, recent competition, and possible tactical advantages. They are editorial predictions rather than guaranteed outcomes.

Three Important Factors That Could Decide UFC Vegas 124

1. Cortes-Acosta’s Boxing Against Walker’s Explosiveness

The heavyweight main event could depend on how effectively Cortes-Acosta handles Walker’s early attacks. Walker possesses unusual speed and reach for the division, making him dangerous in open exchanges. However, Cortes-Acosta’s boxing and durability could become increasingly important as the contest progresses.

2. Wrestling Control in the Strawweight Co-Main Event

Tatiana Suarez and Virna Jandiroba bring some of the strongest grappling credentials on the card. Their matchup could depend on which fighter establishes dominant positions. Suarez may hold the wrestling advantage, but Jandiroba remains dangerous during submission exchanges.

3. Short-Notice Preparation Across the Card

UFC Vegas 124 has undergone several important changes before fight night. The original main event was canceled, while other fighters received replacement opponents. Those developments could influence preparation, endurance, and tactical adjustments during the event.

The promotion’s previous event also produced an unexpected main-event finish. The UFC Vegas 123 results featured Tom Nolan stopping Renato Moicano after surviving difficult grappling exchanges. That contest demonstrated how quickly momentum can change when fighters capitalize on important opportunities.

Which UFC Vegas 124 Fighters Have the Most at Stake?

Cortes-Acosta faces considerable pressure following consecutive defeats against established heavyweight contenders. Another loss could damage his position among the division’s leading fighters. However, defeating Walker would provide an important opportunity to rebuild momentum.

Walker has different ambitions following his successful heavyweight debut. Another knockout victory could strengthen his standing in a division featuring several established competitors. However, losing his second heavyweight appearance would slow his progress.

Suarez and Jandiroba also have important championship aspirations. Their matchup could influence future strawweight opportunities, particularly with Mackenzie Dern holding the title. A convincing performance would strengthen either fighter’s case for another high-profile contest.

Emerging prospects including Elijah Smith, Murtazali Magomedov, and Austin Bashi also have important opportunities. Their performances could determine whether they receive stronger competition during their next appearances. The UFC upcoming fights and matchups continue developing as the promotion approaches the final months of 2026.

Final Thoughts

UFC Vegas 124 presents an interesting lineup despite several late changes to the original schedule. Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Johnny Walker will headline the event in a heavyweight contest featuring different offensive strengths. Tatiana Suarez and Virna Jandiroba provide another significant matchup in the women’s strawweight division.

Our main-event prediction favors Cortes-Acosta to defeat Walker by third-round TKO. His heavyweight experience and disciplined boxing could prove decisive against Walker’s explosive but sometimes unpredictable style. However, the Brazilian remains capable of producing an early knockout.

Suarez, Elijah Smith, and Seok Hyeon Ko are among our other main-card selections. Several preliminary matchups also feature talented prospects with strong finishing potential. The November 7 event should provide opportunities for both established contenders and emerging UFC fighters.

FAQs About UFC Vegas 124 Prediction

1. Who is predicted to win UFC Vegas 124?

Our prediction favors Waldo Cortes-Acosta to defeat Johnny Walker by third-round TKO. His heavyweight experience and boxing could help him overcome Walker’s speed and reach.

2. When is UFC Vegas 124 taking place?

UFC Vegas 124 takes place Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Meta APEX in Las Vegas. The preliminary card begins at 5 PM ET, followed by the main card at 8 PM ET.

3. Why was the UFC Vegas 124 main event changed?

Sean Brady withdrew from his scheduled welterweight fight against Gabriel Bonfim because of an injury. The UFC replaced that matchup with Waldo Cortes-Acosta against Johnny Walker.

4. Who is predicted to win Tatiana Suarez vs Virna Jandiroba?

Tatiana Suarez is our pick to defeat Virna Jandiroba by unanimous decision. Her wrestling and positional control could help her win important rounds against the Brazilian grappler.

5. Where can fans watch UFC Vegas 124?

UFC Vegas 124 will stream on Paramount+ in the United States. Broadcasting arrangements may differ in other countries depending on regional media rights.