Andrew Tackett vs. Renato Canuto booked for UFC BJJ 2 main event
Andrew Tackett will defend his UFC BJJ welterweight title against Renato Canuto in the main event of UFC BJJ 2 on July 31, 2025.
Newly crowned UFC BJJ welterweight champion Andrew Tackett is wasting no time in defending his belt. On July 31, in the main event of UFC BJJ 2 in Las Vegas, Tackett will put his title on the line against decorated veteran Renato Canuto.
The organization announced the matchup on Instagram.
Still just 22 years old, Tackett is widely recognized as one of grappling’s top pound-for-pound competitors. Renowned for his absurd pacing and excellent back-takes, he has lost just once since 2022 and boasts notable victories over the likes of Eoghan O’Flanagan, Nicky Ryan, and Tommy Langaker.
Tackett came into the UFC BJJ: Road to the Title reality show as a sizeable favorite to win the welterweight title, and he did just that, scoring submission victories over Aaron Wilson and Jason Nolf on the show before making quick work of former foe Andy Varela in the finale at UFC BJJ 1.
Following his win over Varela, Tackett went nose-to-nose with Canuto on the mat for what seemed to be an improvised face-off. Whether that staredown was planned or not, it set the stage for the young American’s first title defense.
For his part, Canuto is one of grappling’s most respected and active competitors. He is an IBJJF world champion in both gi and no-gi, and he owns an undefeated record when competing at the UFC Fight Pass Invitational, with key victories over PJ Barch, Nolf, and, most recently, Oliver Taza.
Both Tackett and Canuto are known for their all-action, wildly entertaining approach to grappling. While Tackett is a true buzzsaw of activity who will hunt the back for practically every second of the match, Canuto is a well-rounded submission hunter with a knack for flying submissions. In short, fans can expect fireworks when these two share the mat.
How to watch: Andrew Tackett vs. Renato Canuto takes place in the main event of UFC BJJ 2 on Thursday, July 31, 2025, and will air live on UFC Fight Pass (subscription required).
