This weekend, combat sports fans turned their attention to the highly anticipated return of the Road to UFC series for its fourth season. With no Pay-Per-View or Fight Night card from the Ultimate Fighting Championship to watch, the Road to UFC provided an exciting opportunity for emerging talent from Asia to shine in a grand-prix style tournament. The format followed a classic "win or go home" approach, with fighters competing over three rounds for a chance to earn a spot in the UFC.
The first two episodes of Season 4 took place on May 22, 2025, at the UFC Performance Institute in Shanghai, China. Fans witnessed thrilling matchups in the flyweight and featherweight divisions. Each episode featured five fights, including two quarterfinal bouts for each weight class and a featured bout that showcased rising talents.
If you're looking to catch all the action from Road to UFC Season 4 Episode 1, the tournament streams live on UFC Fight Pass. It began at 7 AM ET on May 22 in Shanghai, promising an intense lineup of fights and an engaging experience for viewers.
The results from Road to UFC Season 4 Episode 1 are as follows:
In the featherweight quarterfinal bout, Sebastian Szalay emerged victorious over Baergeng Jieleyisi, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 30-27 from two judges and 29-28 from the third. In the flyweight division, Yin Shuai delivered an impressive performance, defeating Kai Yoshida via a first-round TKO at 4:38, securing his spot in the next round.
The featherweight quarterfinal saw Keiichiro Nakamura take on Park Eoh-jin, with Nakamura winning by knockout in the second round at 2:24. In another notable flyweight matchup, Namsrai Batbayar faced Wataru Yamauchi and won by second-round KO just 46 seconds into the round, showcasing his striking power.
The episode concluded with a women's strawweight bout where Arisa Matsuda narrowly defeated Feng Xiaocan. The judges awarded the fight to Matsuda by split decision, with scorecards reading 29-28 from two judges and 28-29 from one.
Road to UFC Season 4 is not just a showcase of skill; it serves as a crucial platform for fighter development. Athletes competing in this tournament are looking to improve their records and gain a coveted opportunity to join the UFC roster. The intense competition and high stakes create a captivating atmosphere for both fighters and fans alike.
As the tournament continues, keep an eye on these emerging talents, as they aim to make their mark in the world of mixed martial arts. The Road to UFC offers a unique glimpse into the future of the sport, and the excitement is only just beginning.
