Getty Images

UFC Nashville Adds a Crucial Clash – Veteran Makes Heavyweight Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Apr 12, 2025 1:49 PM ET

UFC Nashville is shaping up to be a full-on slugfest. Already expected to be headlined by knockout legend Derrick Lewis taking on surging undefeated newcomer Tallison Teixeira, the fight card is getting another boost of heavyweight firepower. Dana White and the UFC brass appear to be in shuffle mode, strategically piecing together what could be one of the most action-packed events of the summer. And now, a light heavyweight contender is making the jump into new territory.

According to Mike Bohn and shared by Nolan King, Brazil's Vitor 'Icao' Petrino is set to move up to heavyweight to face former NFL player turned fighter Austen 'Lights Out' Lane on the UFC Nashville undercard. The bout will take place at Bridgestone Arena and marks a pivotal moment for both athletes. Petrino, 27, began his UFC run with an impressive five-fight win streak, but is now riding back-to-back losses, including a recent KO defeat to Dustin Jacoby. Though he hasn't publicly complained, the weight cut may have worn him down—prompting this move up in class.

Vitor Petrino is moving up to heavyweight to face Austen Lane at #UFCNashville on July 12, multiple sources tell @MikeBohn and me. Story headed to @MMAJunkie. pic.twitter.com/SOzPuoAEK8
— Nolan King (@mma_kings) April 12, 2025

Meanwhile, Lane maybe fighting for his UFC future. His current record stands at 2-4 with one no contest, most recently suffering a knockout loss to Mario Pinto. With both men on the verge of make-or-break moments, this bout carries significant implications. If Lane stumbles again, the chopping block looms. For Petrino, the leap to heavyweight must be more than symbolic—it has to be convincing.

A strong showing could mark the beginning of a successful run in the heavyweight division, opening new doors and fresh matchups for Petrino moving forward. With both fighters facing pressure and something major to prove, what’s on the line here could make this a surprisingly solid addition to an already explosive card.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: