undercard

An undercard is the portion of a boxing or mixed martial arts event that features bouts scheduled before the main event. It comprises the early fights on a fight card and may be televised or streamed depending on the promotion. Undercard matches are often used to showcase up-and-coming or regional fighters, test new talent, and build storylines that enhance the audience's investment in the headlining bout. They also help fill time and generate additional revenue for promoters and venues.

The main event is typically the final fight of the evening; the second-to-last bout is commonly referred to as the co-main event. Together with prelims or early matches, the undercard forms the lower portion of the fight card. The term is widely used in boxing and mixed martial arts, and to a lesser extent in professional wrestling, where similar concepts apply.

Matchmakers balance undercard quality by considering fighter development, marketability, and competitive matchups. A strong undercard can broaden appeal and leave audiences more satisfied, while a weak undercard may dampen expectations for the event. In some cases, an outstanding undercard performance can propel a fighter into the main event in future cards. The undercard's value lies in developing talent, maximizing broadcast appeal, and contributing to the event's overall success.