Jacobe Smith to Face Randy Brown in UFC Co-Main Event
The replacement fighter steps in for the October 31 card at the Meta APEX following an injury.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
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Jacobe Smith will step in to face Randy Brown in the co-main event at the UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas on October 31. Smith replaces Carlos Leal, who withdrew from the card at the Meta APEX due to an undisclosed injury.
Why it matters
The change reflects the frequent volatility of fight cards, where injuries can force reshuffling on short notice. Fans heading to the Meta APEX will see a replacement fighter stepping in with less than two weeks to prepare.
Undefeated fighter Jacobe Smith holds a 13-0 record going into the co-main event against Randy Brown, who enters with a 20-8 record. It is currently unknown if further adjustments will be made to the card before the October 31 event.
The players
Jacobe Smith
An undefeated fighter with a 13-0 record who is stepping in as a replacement for the co-main event.
Randy Brown
A fighter with a 20-8 record who is slated to face Jacobe Smith.
Carlos Leal
The fighter who withdrew from the co-main event due to an undisclosed injury.
Renato Moicano
The headlining fighter scheduled to meet Tom Nolan.
Tom Nolan
The No. 11 ranked lightweight fighter facing Renato Moicano in the main event.
The details
Smith takes this co-main event slot on short notice following Leal's withdrawal. The card also features adjustments to other bouts, including Mantas Kondratavicius replacing Azamat Bekoev and Dakota Hope filling in against Francis Marshall. The event is hosted at the Meta APEX.
Timeline
October 31, 2026: UFC Fight Night event occurs at the Meta APEX.
Beyond the Strip
This reshuffling follows standard industry practices for UFC Fight Night scheduling protocols when participants withdraw. It mirrors similar late-notice substitutions that keep local event cards intact despite medical cancellations.
Those attending the event at the Meta APEX on October 31 will see Smith instead of Leal in the co-main event. Attendees should plan for typical event-related traffic in the area during the evening.
The takeaway
UFC cards are subject to change, so fans should verify the final lineup closer to the October 31 start date. Keep an eye on the official fight card for any additional adjustments following the recent medical withdrawals.
Further reading
For more on the local combat sports scene, check our Mixed Martial Arts section.
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