UFC Fight Night 262: Gibson vs. Qileng takes place October 18, 2025, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. This bantamweight showdown features veteran American finisher Cody Gibson against Chinese pressure fighter Aori Qileng, with both seeking a statement win to break into the top 20 mix.
Cody Gibson
Cody Gibson (21–11) is a battle-tested veteran known for his aggressive wrestling, toughness, and opportunistic submissions. A former TUF finalist and multiple-time regional champion, Gibson owns wins over Brian Kelleher, Chad Anheliger, and Johnny Bedford. He competes at a relentless pace and remains dangerous both as a striker (7 career KOs) and grappler (5 submissions, including multiple arm-triangle finishes). Gibson recently lost by kimura to Da’Mon Blackshear but rebounded with a decision over Anheliger before dropping his most recent bout.
Gibson’s approach centers on forward pressure, clinch control, and blending striking with takedowns. He’s durable, difficult to submit, and has faced a wide range of opponents across major promotions.
Cody Gibson – Last 5 Fights:
Loss – Da’Mon Blackshear | Submission (Kimura) | UFC FN 254 | March 15, 2025
Win – Chad Anheliger | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC FN 246 | November 2, 2024
Win – Brian Kelleher | Submission (Arm-Triangle) | UFC ESPN 60 | July 20, 2024
Loss – Miles Johns | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC ESPN 53 | March 23, 2024
Loss – Brad Katona | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC 292 | August 19, 2023
Keys for Gibson: use wrestling to dictate pace, threaten with submissions, and avoid prolonged striking exchanges where Qileng’s volume could build momentum.
Aori Qileng
Aori Qileng (25–12, 1 NC) is a Mongolian-born Chinese pressure fighter with a Sanda base and a reputation for all-action bouts. A “Fight of the Night” bonus winner, Qileng has picked up UFC victories over Johnny Muñoz Jr., Jay Perrin, and Cameron Else. His style relies on constant forward motion, high-output combinations, and iron durability. While his wrestling is capable, he occasionally struggles against strong grapplers but has made clear progress defending takedowns and creating scrambles.
Qileng most recently dropped a decision to Raul Rosas Jr. but remains one of the division’s most exciting action fighters—always pushing pace and testing opponents’ will.
Aori Qileng – Last 5 Fights:
Loss – Raul Rosas Jr. | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC 306 | September 14, 2024
No Contest – Daniel Marcos | Accidental Groin Kick | UFC FN 236 | February 10, 2024
Win – Johnny Muñoz Jr. | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC FN 229 | October 7, 2023
Loss – Aiemann Zahabi | KO (Punches) | UFC 289 | June 10, 2023
Win – Jay Perrin | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC 278 | August 20, 2022
Keys for Qileng: apply relentless pressure, keep Gibson backing up, and use body shots and combinations to test his cardio in later rounds.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup pits Gibson’s wrestling and grappling experience against Qileng’s pace, volume, and aggression. Gibson will look to mix in takedowns and control from top position, while Qileng will aim to keep the fight standing and turn it into a high-tempo striking war.
If Gibson can consistently secure takedowns and impose top control, he can neutralize Qileng’s output and accumulate points. However, if Qileng defends early attempts and forces long exchanges, his pressure and volume could swing momentum in his favor down the stretch.
Prediction
Expect a competitive fight early, with Gibson finding success through wrestling and Qileng rallying with forward pressure in later rounds. Gibson’s grappling edge and veteran composure should allow him to edge a close decision, though Qileng’s relentless pace will keep it tight throughout.
Prediction: Cody Gibson def. Aori Qileng via Decision (Unanimous)
A win would elevate Gibson’s standing in the bantamweight division, while a Qileng upset would reaffirm his place as one of the UFC’s most entertaining and resilient action fighters.