5 under the radar names to look out for at UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Rodriguez

#2. Matheus Nicolau - UFC flyweight

UFC flyweight Matheus Nicolau has gradually amassed a solid record of 18-2-1 over the past 11 years. He is currently in his second UFC stint, initially putting together a 3-1 record before testing the waters at Future FC and Brave CF. Nicolau won back-to-back victories with those promotions, prompting a return to the UFC in 2021.

In March, Nicolau was matched up with one of the division's rising prospects, Manel Kape. The fight was a closely contested three rounds in which Nicolau was able to secure a split decision victory. The win saw him enter the flyweight rankings at No.11.

This weekend, he will have the opportunity to break into the division's top 10 as he faces No.9-ranked Tim Elliot. Nicolau will no doubt have his hands full against the UFC veteran. However, should he be victorious, a title shot would only be a few more wins away.

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#1. Chris Gutierrez - UFC bantamweight

The event's featured preliminary bout sees UFC bantamweight Chris Gutierrez return to action. He'll face off against Felipe Colares. Gutierrez last competed at UFC 258, where he put on a striking clinic against Andre Ewell.

Gutierrez currently holds a 16-3-2 record and is undefeated in his last five fights (4 wins, 1 draw). His sole loss in the UFC came against Raoni Barcelos, who is considered by many to be the dark horse of the bantamweight division.

Felipe Colares is no scrub either, he already has two UFC wins on his record, having defeated Luke Sanders and Domingo Pilarte. He has a high-level submission game and is yet to be finished. Colares may well be the perfect opponent to test Gutierrez and to see if he is ready for a big step up in opposition.