ION CUTELABA

Ion Cutelaba is a light heavyweight competitor representing Moldova. Originally grounded in Judo, Sambo, and Greco-Roman wrestling, he began his professional career in 2012 before joining the UFC roster four years later. Now training at MMA Factory, the orthodox fighter maintains an aggressive approach that relies heavily on finishes, having secured the vast majority of his career victories through either knockout or submission. During his tenure with the promotion, he has battled high-level opposition and previously claimed a Fight of the Night bonus.

Entering the event, Cutelaba holds a career record of 17-10-1 with one no-contest. His recent performance has been inconsistent, as he arrives at this matchup following a unanimous decision defeat against Philipe Lins in March 2024. Prior to that loss, he secured a technical knockout over Tanner Boser. His form leading up to these outings included three consecutive stoppage losses to Kennedy Nzechukwu, Johnny Walker, and Ryan Spann.