On Saturday night, UFC 307 brings the Octagon back to the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, for an electrifying event that promises to be another memorable chapter in the city’s UFC history. The venue has already hosted two of the most iconic UFC moments in recent years — Leon Edwards’ stunning last-minute knockout of Kamaru Usman to claim the welterweight title at UFC 278, and Justin Gaethje’s devastating head kick knockout of Dustin Poirier at UFC 291. Now, UFC 307 returns with another loaded fight card, highlighted by two title bouts and the final chapter in the career of a former two-time UFC champion.
For the third time in 2024, reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira steps into the Octagon to defend his title, this time against surging contender Khalil Rountree Jr. The main event promises fireworks as two of the most devastating strikers in the division square off in a bout that could be decided by a single thunderous blow.
Pereira has been on an unstoppable tear since capturing the vacant title in November of last year with a second-round knockout of former champion Jiri Prochazka at Madison Square Garden. Since then, the Brazilian powerhouse has added two more title defenses to his resume, including a rematch with Prochazka at UFC 303 and a decisive victory over ex-titleholder Jamahal Hill at UFC 300. With finishes in six of his eight UFC wins and a four-fight winning streak, “Poatan” remains one of the most feared fighters in the division, combining speed, power, and technique in a way that has made him virtually untouchable at 205 pounds.
Challenger Khalil Rountree Jr. enters UFC 307 riding an impressive five-fight win streak, with four of those victories coming by way of knockout. The 34-year-old striker is known for his punishing striking and relentless pressure, which was on full display in his last outing when he dominated Anthony Smith before stopping him in the third round. Rountree has consistently showcased his ability to finish fights in devastating fashion, and a win over Pereira would complete his Cinderella run to the light heavyweight title.
With both fighters favoring a striking-heavy approach and a penchant for knockouts, this main event could be a slugfest where the first fighter to land cleanly may walk out of the Delta Center with the belt around their waist.
In the co-main event, UFC bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington looks to defend her title against former champion Julianna Peña. This bout not only features two top contenders in the division but also a rivalry that has been brewing for nearly a decade.
Pennington won the bantamweight belt earlier this year, outlasting the aggressive Mayra Bueno Silva to earn a unanimous decision victory. The 36-year-old champion is currently on a six-fight winning streak and has proven her ability to adapt and endure against top-level competition. Pennington’s grinding style and resilience have made her a tough out for any opponent, and she’ll need to bring those qualities into the cage on Saturday night against a motivated and dangerous challenger.
Julianna Peña, the former bantamweight champion, returns to action after being sidelined due to injury for over a year. Peña’s crowning achievement came in December 2021 when she shocked the world by defeating Amanda Nunes to win the title. Although she lost the belt in the rematch, Peña has been eager for another chance to reclaim the gold. Her fiery persona and aggressive approach should make for an intense battle, as she looks to become a two-time champion and settle the score with Pennington once and for all.
The two fighters have history dating back to Season 18 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” where Peña won the competition, but their paths never crossed in the Octagon — until now. Expect emotions to run high as these two seasoned veterans clash with championship gold on the line.
In addition to the two title fights, UFC 307 will also feature the final fight of a two-time UFC champion, who will step into the Octagon for one last time in a highly anticipated farewell bout. This legend’s career has left an indelible mark on the sport, and their swan song is sure to be a moment to remember.
The card also includes several matchups between top contenders, rising prospects, and action fighters, all looking to make a statement. The atmosphere at the Delta Center is expected to be electric, as fans in Salt Lake City once again prepare for a night of unforgettable UFC action.
UFC 307 is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in Salt Lake City’s UFC history. With two championship fights, a legend’s farewell, and a stacked undercard, this event has all the makings of a night that will be talked about for years to come. Don’t miss the action as Alex Pereira and Khalil Rountree Jr. battle for light heavyweight supremacy, and Raquel Pennington and Julianna Peña settle their long-standing rivalry for the bantamweight title.