Rinya Nakamura will be looking to build on his superb start to life in the octagon when he faces Fernie Garcia at a UFC event on August 26th. The two bantamweights will face off at an event which doesn’t currently have a venue or a name.
Nakamura (7-0) earned a $50,000 USD bonus for his victory over Toshiomi Kazama at UFC Vegas 68. The former wrestling champion won the Road to UFC bantamweight tournament, beating his compatriot in the final.
He faces a Mexican opponent who has not made such a promising start to his UFC career. Garcia (10-3) earned his opportunity after impressing on Dana White’s Contender Series.
OUT. COLD.
Rinya Nakamura is your #RoadToUFC bantamweight winner! #UFCVegas68 pic.twitter.com/6ULxnIOaxi
— UFC (@ufc) February 5, 2023
Promotional debut
He made his promotional debut at UFC 274. Garcia dropped a decision to Journey Newson and saw the five fight winning streak that had earned him a spot on the roster snapped.
He faded Brady Hiestand in his sophomore appearance inside the octagon. The American would go on to finish Danaa Batgerel in his next outing at UFC Vegas 71.
Garcia did at least go the distance with Hiestand at UFC Vegas 65. But the Mexican was beaten by decision again and will potentially be fighting for his promotional future on August 26th.
UFC TBA, TBA, August 26th
Rinya Nakamura vs. Fernie Garcia (Bantamweight)