The UFC continues to construct its April fight slate as bantamweight contender John Castaneda has been booked to face Mark Vologdin at UFC Vegas 116 on April 18th, in line with a report first broken by Frontkick Online. The matchup adds one other intriguing bantamweight bout to the UFC Apex card in Las Vegas.
John Castañeda will fight Mark Vologdin at #UFCVegas116 on April 18th. (first rep. @FrontkickOnline) #UFC #MMA #UFCParamount #UFConParamount #UFC2026 pic.twitter.com/BHavNI3Kr6
— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) February 10, 2026
Castaneda, known for his aggressive striking style and willingness to have interaction in firefights, enters this contest seeking to construct momentum within the crowded 135-pound division. The Mexican-American fighter has built a status as a fan-favorite motion fighter who consistently delivers entertaining performances contained in the octagon. His boxing-heavy approach and sturdy chin have made him a dangerous opponent for anyone within the division, and he’ll look to showcase those skills against the rising Vologdin.
Mark Vologdin represents an interesting challenge for Castaneda, because the matchup will test each fighters’ abilities to impose their game plans. Details about Vologdin’s recent form and fighting style can be crucial in determining how this bantamweight clash plays out when the cage door closes on the UFC Apex.
FIGHT OF THE YEAR CONTENDER!
Adrian Martinetti vs Mark Vologdin #DWCS pic.twitter.com/ZF4CYXJKvA
— SleeperKO (@SleeperKO) October 8, 2025
For Castaneda, this represents one other probability to climb the bantamweight rankings and potentially edge closer to title contention. The division stays some of the competitive within the UFC, making every victory crucial for fighters seeking to separate themselves from the pack. Meanwhile, Vologdin will aim to prove he belongs among the many division’s best by defeating a recognized name.
As more fights are confirmed for UFC Vegas 116, this bantamweight bout serves as an early anchor for what guarantees to be one other exciting night of fights on the Apex. Combat sports fans can expect the trademark intensity that each fighters bring, with the potential for highlight-reel finishes at all times present when Castañeda steps into the cage.
Confirmed Fights for UFC Vegas 116
Bantamweight: John Castañeda vs. Mark Vologdin
Additional bouts for UFC Vegas 116 haven’t yet been officially announced.