UFC Rio adds explosive welterweight clash between seasoned veterans

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Mathew Riddle | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 6:32 PM ET

(Zuffa LLC)

CHARLES OLIVEIRA --- 'Do Bronx's' return card at UFC Rio de Janeiro this October just got another major boost with the addition of thrilling welterweight veterans Vicente Luque and Santiago Ponzinibbio.

UFC announced the pairing by social media on August 11.

Fans will welcome the all-finisher matchup, with the pair boasting 28 knockouts and 15 submissions, and just 10 decision wins in 74 total bouts. Both are aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks, each holding a 2-3 record over their last five outings.

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Vicente Luque vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio official for UFC Rio de Janeiro

Luta confirmada para o #UFCRio! @VicenteLuqueMMA enfrenta @SPonzinibbioMMA no dia 11 de outubro, no Rio de Janeiro!

Cadastre-se para a pré-venda em https://t.co/SUs9hTcOBH ️ pic.twitter.com/0TVXIvggTi
— UFC Brasil (@UFCBrasil) August 11, 2025

Luque remains one of the most prolific finishers in UFC welterweight history, with a penchant for crisp boxing and securing D'Arce chokes.

Meanwhile, Ponzinibbio's power and counter-punching ability have made him a threat to anyone in the division, and a win over Luque in Brazil would be a career highlight.

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