Preview: UFC Kansas City Prelims

Featherweights

Roberto Romero (8-4-1, 0-1 UFC) vs. Timothy Cuamba (8-3, 0-2 UFC)

ODDS: Romero (-115), Cuamba (-105)

This pairing sees two featherweights go for their first UFC win. Romero impressed in his late-notice debut in November, even if it resulted in a loss. Ahead of that fight against David Onama, “El Charro Negro” had carved out a solid career as an aggressive pressure fighter. However, his game figured to be unable to withstand the huge jump in athleticism that someone like Onama would represent. Instead, Romero had his moments while putting in three hard rounds, suggesting that while he might still face an uphill battle physically at times, he should be able to grit his way to some victories going forward. He will take on Cuamba, who has struggled to find his footing after getting his own late-notice call from the UFC in 2024. Cuamba was the rare snub on the Contender Series nowadays, getting passed over for a contract in 2023 despite a clear decision win, but as these things often go, the UFC wound up needing his services just a few months later. Cuamba is a sniper by nature with a bit of wrestling to back things up—an approach that has been highly successful regionally but has not yet come together against better competition. Bolaji Oki was too physical for Cuamba’s late-notice debut up at lightweight, while Lucas Almeida was dedicated enough to absorb his offense and pour on some volume. Given his last performance, Romero looks poised to replicate Almeida’s path to victory. The pick is Romero via decision.

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