UFC Fight Night: Thompson vs. Neal · Dec 19, 2020 · Women’s Flyweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC Fight Night: Thompson vs. Neal Next Fight
Age 32
Height 5' 6"
Reach 68.0"
Weight 125 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 31
Height 5' 5"
Reach 63.0"
Weight 115 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Taila Santos
3.39 SLpM
48.0% Str. Acc.
2.64 SApM
58.0% Str. Def.
2.0 TD Avg
76.0% TD Acc.
86.0% TD Def.
1.1 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Gillian Robertson
2.71 SLpM
48.0% Str. Acc.
2.86 SApM
56.0% Str. Def.
2.76 TD Avg
40.0% TD Acc.
38.0% TD Def.
0.9 Sub. Avg
Taila Santos - Fight History
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Holloway vs. The Korean Zombie · Aug 26, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Erin Blanchfield 0 61 of 128 47% 119 of 210 0 of 14 0% 0 0 8:08
Taila Santos 0 55 of 151 36% 96 of 202 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:09
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Erin Blanchfield 0 26 of 55 47% 36 of 69 0 of 4 0% 0 0 1:22
Taila Santos 0 25 of 71 35% 31 of 80 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:06
2 Erin Blanchfield 0 9 of 18 50% 34 of 58 0 of 4 0% 0 0 4:01
Taila Santos 0 11 of 24 45% 32 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
3 Erin Blanchfield 0 26 of 55 47% 49 of 83 0 of 6 0% 0 0 2:45
Taila Santos 0 19 of 56 33% 33 of 74 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Erin Blanchfield 61 of 128 47% 37 of 99 18 of 23 6 of 6 43 of 102 17 of 24 1 of 2
Taila Santos 55 of 151 36% 28 of 118 9 of 15 18 of 18 46 of 133 9 of 18 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Erin Blanchfield 26 of 55 47% 16 of 45 7 of 7 3 of 3 20 of 49 6 of 6 0 of 0
Taila Santos 25 of 71 35% 13 of 56 5 of 8 7 of 7 21 of 63 4 of 8 0 of 0
2 Erin Blanchfield 9 of 18 50% 3 of 9 4 of 7 2 of 2 5 of 9 3 of 7 1 of 2
Taila Santos 11 of 24 45% 5 of 16 2 of 4 4 of 4 8 of 19 3 of 5 0 of 0
3 Erin Blanchfield 26 of 55 47% 18 of 45 7 of 9 1 of 1 18 of 44 8 of 11 0 of 0
Taila Santos 19 of 56 33% 10 of 46 2 of 3 7 of 7 17 of 51 2 of 5 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Aug 20, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Angelo acknowledges Blanchfield's grappling and improved striking, but leans toward Santos because of her power, technical striking, and BJJ. He questions whether Blanchfield can get takedowns against Santos, and if she can't, Santos will light her up. He notes that Blanchfield is a surprising 2-to-1 favorite and thinks the fight should be closer to even money.

"I just have a tiny slight lean for Tyler she's I'm gonna pick her this should be almost even money"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Aug 21, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

Big Brady is torn on this fight, acknowledging both fighters are championship caliber. He favors Blanchfield due to her youth, activity, and improvements, especially in striking. He questions Santos's mental toughness, citing her excuses after the Valentina fight and pulling out of this fight earlier. He expects a close fight and picks Blanchfield by decision, but with low confidence.

decision
"blanchfield blanchfield by decision but not a ton of confidence"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

Cody picks Blanchfield due to her youth, improving skills, and superior cardio. He believes her wrestling and pressure will wear down Santos, who he sees as a step down from the elite. Cody expects a close decision or late submission.

"the pick for me is Blanche Shield because I'm Blanche Shield believer"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

Daniel picks Erin Blanchfield, praising her mean streak and relentless pressure. He notes that Santos is more physical and a better striker, but Blanchfield's grappling and cardio will take over in later rounds. He mentions that Blanchfield is a lifelong black belt and has a strong chin. He is confident she wins, though he thinks the price is accurate and not a value bet.

"I think Aaron blanchfield wins here um I'm close to betting her but I haven't yet because I do think I kind of agree with you the slime"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Aug 26, 2023 (fight day)
Erin Blanchfield

James picks Erin Blanchfield, citing her continuous improvement, will to win, and superior grappling chain. He believes she can get takedowns on Santos and dominate on the mat, potentially submitting her. He acknowledges Santos' size and power but thinks Blanchfield's pace and cardio will be decisive. He also notes Santos' inactivity and the emotional letdown from the title loss.

bet on Erin Blanchfield moneyline; also considered Blanchfield submission at 22-1 but did not bet
"I lean air in blanchfield a decent amount"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

The host acknowledges Taila Santos' strength and performance against Valentina Shevchenko, but believes Blanchfield's technical grappling and top control will be the difference. He notes Blanchfield's dominant win over Jessica Andrade and her ability to pass guard and maintain top position. The host expects a grueling fight but picks Blanchfield by decision.

"I'm going to go blanchfield and blanchfield by decision but it's going to be a grueling grueling fight for bro both women."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

Paul sides with Blanchfield, noting her grappling advantage and potential to get takedowns. He acknowledges Santos' close fight with Shevchenko but thinks Blanchfield's youth and improvement give her the edge. Paul is not fully confident but leans Blanchfield.

"I'm going to side with Blanche Fields uh on that"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Erin Blanchfield

The MMA Guru picks Erin Blanchfield over Taila Santos, citing Blanchfield's youth (6-year age difference) and likely improvement. He believes Blanchfield has better grappling, scrambles, and crisper stand-up, though Santos may have a power advantage. He notes Santos' close fight with Valentina Shevchenko but thinks Blanchfield's activity and conditioning will win. He predicts a competitive 29-28 decision.

Unanimous decision predicted
"I'm gonna go Erin blanchfield I think her grappling game's a bit better I think her striking's a bit more active she's a bit busier her conditioning is a bit better"
Decision (split) (48–47, 47–48, 49–46) R5 5:00 · UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Prochazka · Jun 12, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Valentina Shevchenko 0 77 of 139 55% 234 of 309 3 of 5 60% 1 0 4:15
Taila Santos 0 55 of 102 53% 128 of 180 3 of 3 100% 3 2 8:49
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Valentina Shevchenko 0 10 of 16 62% 35 of 44 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:28
Taila Santos 0 5 of 10 50% 12 of 17 0 of 0 --- 2 0 1:51
2 Valentina Shevchenko 0 7 of 19 36% 64 of 81 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:09
Taila Santos 0 4 of 7 57% 31 of 37 1 of 1 100% 0 1 3:40
3 Valentina Shevchenko 0 17 of 22 77% 46 of 54 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:02
Taila Santos 0 7 of 15 46% 10 of 18 1 of 1 100% 1 0 2:21
4 Valentina Shevchenko 0 29 of 59 49% 37 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Taila Santos 0 28 of 56 50% 33 of 62 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:17
5 Valentina Shevchenko 0 14 of 23 60% 52 of 63 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:36
Taila Santos 0 11 of 14 78% 42 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:40
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Valentina Shevchenko 77 of 139 55% 46 of 100 12 of 18 19 of 21 65 of 123 7 of 10 5 of 6
Taila Santos 55 of 102 53% 18 of 58 11 of 15 26 of 29 45 of 89 4 of 5 6 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Valentina Shevchenko 10 of 16 62% 5 of 8 2 of 4 3 of 4 6 of 11 4 of 5 0 of 0
Taila Santos 5 of 10 50% 2 of 7 1 of 1 2 of 2 4 of 9 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Valentina Shevchenko 7 of 19 36% 5 of 14 1 of 3 1 of 2 3 of 13 0 of 1 4 of 5
Taila Santos 4 of 7 57% 3 of 6 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 3 1 of 1 2 of 3
3 Valentina Shevchenko 17 of 22 77% 6 of 11 3 of 3 8 of 8 16 of 21 1 of 1 0 of 0
Taila Santos 7 of 15 46% 0 of 6 1 of 2 6 of 7 6 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0
4 Valentina Shevchenko 29 of 59 49% 20 of 48 6 of 8 3 of 3 27 of 56 2 of 3 0 of 0
Taila Santos 28 of 56 50% 11 of 35 6 of 9 11 of 12 23 of 49 1 of 2 4 of 5
5 Valentina Shevchenko 14 of 23 60% 10 of 19 0 of 0 4 of 4 13 of 22 0 of 0 1 of 1
Taila Santos 11 of 14 78% 2 of 4 2 of 2 7 of 8 11 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 5, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Angelo picks Shevchenko confidently, acknowledging she is the best in the division. He notes Santos is dangerous and the toughest opponent Shevchenko has faced recently, but still believes Shevchenko wins. He mentions the odds are wide but doesn't recommend a bet due to the high price.

"i still think valentina shivchenko wins this fight but there is a world where she doesn't and tyla has some success"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 6, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Big Brady picks Valentina Shevchenko to win by TKO, expressing high confidence. He notes that Santos' best wins are against lower-level competition and that she lost to Mara Romero Barela. He believes Shevchenko is superior everywhere and will break Santos down, finishing her mid-to-late in the fight.

win by TKO
"I'm gonna go with Shevchenko to win I'm gonna say Shevchenko actually finishes Santos I think it could be early but I'm kind of lean like mid to late."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 8, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Cody is confident in Shevchenko, citing her elite skills, wrestling advantage, and championship experience. He questions Santos' level of competition and output, noting she hasn't faced anyone near Shevchenko's caliber. He expects Shevchenko to win by decision.

Shevchenko by decision; over 3.5 rounds
"i likely end up going valentina on the top ticket but uh i i do have some hesitancy at this like exact moment"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jun 9, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Daniel Levi confidently picks Valentina Shevchenko, dismissing Taila Santos's chances due to her poor performance against Mara Romero Barella. He believes Shevchenko is in her prime and has never been dominated in any facet. He notes that Santos's best win is against Joanne Calderwood, who gets finished repeatedly, and that Santos's nerves against Barella indicate she cannot handle the pressure of fighting Shevchenko. He expects Shevchenko to impose her will and win decisively.

Shevchenko by decision at plus 600 (mentioned in context of Holm fight); not laying minus 600
"I got chefchenko to defend uh her belt but yeah I'm curious to see if uh Tyler Santos can bring the fight to her"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 10, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Shevchenko is the better fighter everywhere. Santos has not shown enough to suggest she can compete with Shevchenko's level. Santos struggled to finish lesser opponents and lost to Mara Romero Borella. Shevchenko has fought Amanda Nunes closely and is on another level. The line is too high to bet, but Shevchenko wins easily.

Over 3.5 rounds (-160)
"I just haven't seen anything yet that's going to make me say i don't know valentina isn't going to just do what she normally does."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 8, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

Paul is confident in Shevchenko, calling her the most skilled female fighter. He dismisses Santos' resume and believes Shevchenko's wrestling, striking, and cardio are superior. He expects a decision win for the champion.

Shevchenko by decision; over 3.5 rounds
"valentina's focused enough... she's got the wrestling advantage... she's got the striking advantage... shevchenko decision"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 6, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Valentina Shevchenko

The MMA Guru confidently picks Valentina Shevchenko to win, citing her elite level and experience. He expects Shevchenko to outstrike Santos at range, chopping legs and jabbing. He acknowledges Santos has power and could land some shots, but believes Shevchenko's defense and composure will prevail. He thinks the fight will be competitive but Shevchenko will win clearly. He criticizes the title shot timing for Santos, suggesting she needed another fight.

"i'm going to go valentina shevchenko um i don't mean to have a hot take you know i mean like a shocking news i'm going with valentina chefchenko here"
WIN vs Joanne Wood
Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 4:49 · UFC Fight Night: Vieira vs. Tate · Nov 20, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Taila Santos 0 27 of 68 39% 30 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Joanne Wood 2 30 of 60 50% 36 of 67 0 of 0 --- 2 0 1:17
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Taila Santos 0 27 of 68 39% 30 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Joanne Wood 2 30 of 60 50% 36 of 67 0 of 0 --- 2 0 1:17
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Taila Santos 27 of 68 39% 8 of 36 3 of 7 16 of 25 26 of 67 1 of 1 0 of 0
Joanne Wood 30 of 60 50% 21 of 46 3 of 7 6 of 7 19 of 42 0 of 0 11 of 18
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Taila Santos 27 of 68 39% 8 of 36 3 of 7 16 of 25 26 of 67 1 of 1 0 of 0
Joanne Wood 30 of 60 50% 21 of 46 3 of 7 6 of 7 19 of 42 0 of 0 11 of 18
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 17, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Angelo picks Taila Santos, saying she is better than Joanne Wood everywhere. He notes Taila's power, athleticism, and willingness to mix in takedowns, while Wood is technical but less powerful. He expects Taila to cruise to a decision win, though Wood is tough and could make it competitive. He does not bet due to high DraftKings price (9200) and expects a decision.

DraftKings prices: Santos 9200, Wood 7000; monkey knife fight more/more
"tyler's definitely the pick"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 16, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Big Brady picks Taila Santos confidently, stating the line is accurate and could be wider. He highlights Santos' phenomenal wrestling and grappling, noting she controlled top grapplers like Jillian Robertson and Roxy Modafferi for long periods. He points out Joanne Wood's 63% takedown defense and age (35), and believes Santos will dominate with takedowns and control. He predicts a one-sided decision.

win by decision
"give me santos to win by a very dominated one-sided decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Nov 18, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Cody picks Taila Santos but strongly dislikes the -380 price. He acknowledges Santos's wrestling and grinding style should neutralize Wood's Muay Thai, but he questions the level of competition Santos has faced. He notes that Wood has fought the division's best and has better striking volume. Cody believes Santos wins via grinding against the cage and takedowns, but he would not bet her straight up at that price; he might include her in parlays lower down.

Cody mentions that if he were betting straight up, he might put a little on Wood, but for parlays he will use Santos. He says the line is out of proportion and he doesn't fully buy into it.
"i just don't agree with the price tag i mean if i was betting straight up fights i might be inclined to maybe put a you know what do they call it a little bit of chedda a little bit …"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Nov 18, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Daniel Levi picks Taila Santos confidently, citing her recent improvements and physicality. He notes that Santos has been looking better each fight, with strong muay Thai and takedown ability. He questions Joanne Wood's mental state, suggesting she may not be fully committed after getting married. Levi believes Santos will be stronger, more physical, and hungrier, and that Wood has a history of being broken mentally.

"i think we're seeing the best tyler santos... i'm not sure mentally that she's still in it like she once was"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 19, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Taila Santos

Lock is high on Santos, noting she looked much better in her second UFC fight. He thinks Santos has a grappling advantage and will land takedowns consistently. He also mentions Wood's distractions (recent marriage, talk of retirement) and that she struggles off her back. Lock expects Santos to win by decision at -135.

Taila Santos by decision -135, Joanne Wood by decision +400 (hedge)
"I think tyler santos is the [__] man a lot of people are just dragging her through the mud because of that loss in her ufc debut."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 18, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Paul argues that if you think Santos will win, the price shouldn't scare you off. He believes Santos's wrestling and strength advantage will allow her to grind Wood against the cage and render her Muay Thai useless. He thinks Santos wins at least 6-7 out of 10 times, which justifies the -380 line. He criticizes the mentality of flipping a pick based on odds and sticks with Santos as the winner.

"if someone came up to me with just a bout sheet there's no odds right it's just about cheap 12 fights and said who do you think is going to win well i would circle taylor santos"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 15, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Joanne Wood

The MMA Guru picks Joanne Wood as an underdog over Taila Santos. He argues that Santos's stand-up is not great and she hasn't dominated on the ground against top competition. He highlights Wood's experience against top flyweights, including wins over Lauren Murphy and Andrea Lee, and argues she was robbed in some losses. He expects Wood to outland Santos on the feet and win by unanimous decision (30-27).

"i'm going to go with joanne caudle as a cowderwood as an underdog here"
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 266: Volkanovski vs. Ortega · Sep 25, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Taila Santos 0 18 of 92 19% 43 of 124 0 of 4 0% 0 0 3:02
Roxanne Modafferi 1 55 of 95 57% 118 of 164 5 of 5 100% 0 0 8:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Taila Santos 0 6 of 24 25% 19 of 38 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:17
Roxanne Modafferi 0 18 of 30 60% 35 of 50 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:50
2 Taila Santos 0 4 of 12 33% 14 of 28 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:30
Roxanne Modafferi 0 9 of 17 52% 34 of 43 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:49
3 Taila Santos 0 8 of 56 14% 10 of 58 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:15
Roxanne Modafferi 1 28 of 48 58% 49 of 71 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:24
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Taila Santos 18 of 92 19% 13 of 85 2 of 3 3 of 4 16 of 90 2 of 2 0 of 0
Roxanne Modafferi 55 of 95 57% 38 of 75 8 of 11 9 of 9 40 of 72 8 of 9 7 of 14
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Taila Santos 6 of 24 25% 3 of 20 1 of 1 2 of 3 5 of 23 1 of 1 0 of 0
Roxanne Modafferi 18 of 30 60% 10 of 21 7 of 8 1 of 1 9 of 20 8 of 9 1 of 1
2 Taila Santos 4 of 12 33% 4 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 11 1 of 1 0 of 0
Roxanne Modafferi 9 of 17 52% 6 of 12 0 of 2 3 of 3 7 of 13 0 of 0 2 of 4
3 Taila Santos 8 of 56 14% 6 of 53 1 of 2 1 of 1 8 of 56 0 of 0 0 of 0
Roxanne Modafferi 28 of 48 58% 22 of 42 1 of 1 5 of 5 24 of 39 0 of 0 4 of 9
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 21, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Angelo picks Santos, highlighting her athleticism, boxing, and fight IQ. He notes she can adjust game plans, as seen in her fight against Molly McCann where she took her down five times. Angelo believes Santos is better everywhere and will cruise to a decision, as Modafferi is tough to finish.

Angelo suggests Santos by decision prop. He also mentions the plus three and a half points bet for Modafferi and wins inside the distance decision no action for Modafferi at +200.
"Taylor Santos is the pick"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 21, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Taila Santos

Big Brady picks Taila Santos to win by dominant decision. He emphasizes that Santos is a completely different fighter from her debut, having dominated Molly McCann and Gillian Robertson. He sees Santos as younger, stronger, and better everywhere, with no clear path to victory for Modafferi. He warns against betting on Modafferi based on Santos' first fight.

"tawa santos is the real deal you know she's somebody to definitely look out for"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Sep 23, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Roxanne Modafferi

Cody leans towards Modafferi as a value play, noting her durability, grit, and history of cashing as an underdog. He acknowledges Santos' strength and crisp striking but questions her cardio and the wide price. He is hesitant due to Modafferi's age and torn meniscus.

"value is value and i think the value is squarely on roxanne at plus 310"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant picked Sep 24, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Taila Santos

Daniel Levi picks Taila Santos but is hesitant due to her previous performance against Mara Borella where she refused to throw. He notes that Santos should win dominantly but is concerned about her tendency to freeze, especially with fans returning. He respects Roxanne Modafferi's toughness and ability to upset, but believes Santos is the superior fighter. He advises against betting the -400 line.

betting advice: not laying -400
"all that said give me the superior fighter give me tyler santos is just please don't pull a stun here like please perform to the best of your abilities and you'll win this fight period"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Lean picked Sep 21, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Roxanne Modafferi

Jacob picks Modafferi by submission, following her pattern of alternating wins and losses. He feels this is a fight where Modafferi shouldn't win but will find a way. He notes Santos lacks killer instinct and thinks a weird scramble could lead to a submission.

Jacob says he'll take a small flyer on Modafferi by submission at +1200. He also mentions the plus three and a half points bet.
"I'm gonna put a wild weird bet on rockstein by submission"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 25, 2021 (fight day)
Taila Santos

The host picks Taila Santos to win via decision. He believes Santos is a much better striker with improving takedown defense and get-up ability. He expects Santos to pick Modafferi apart from distance and pass her takedown defense test. He notes Modafferi's durability but thinks Santos is on the ascent while Modafferi is on the decline.

Santos by decision at -130
"i am gonna go with tyler santos and i'll pick her to win this fight via decision hit that minus one thirty i like it"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Sep 23, 2021 (2 days before fight)

Paul does not have a clear pick. He finds Santos' price too high and is wary of Modafferi's injury and age. He considers Modafferi at plus money but is not confident. He will watch weigh-ins before deciding.

"i can't bet taylor at this price"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 19, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Taila Santos

The MMA Guru picks Taila Santos over Roxanne Modafferi, citing Modafferi's age and lack of improvement. He notes that Santos is young, well-rounded, and has a good ground game, which should prevent Modafferi from laying in half guard. He expects Santos to win a unanimous decision, as Modafferi is tough but not skilled enough. He mentions that Santos' win over Molly McCann looks better now, and that Modafferi has over 40 fights but still looks lost.

"i'm going to go with taylor santos here by unanimous decision over rocks and motor fairing"
Decision (unanimous) (30–26, 30–26, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Thompson vs. Neal · Dec 19, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Taila Santos 0 9 of 14 64% 42 of 48 0 of 2 0% 1 0 1:01
Gillian Robertson 0 27 of 37 72% 72 of 85 1 of 1 100% 1 0 12:47
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Taila Santos 0 6 of 9 66% 25 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:13
Gillian Robertson 0 6 of 8 75% 22 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 4:33
2 Taila Santos 0 1 of 3 33% 7 of 9 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:46
Gillian Robertson 0 12 of 12 100% 19 of 20 1 of 1 100% 1 0 4:01
3 Taila Santos 0 2 of 2 100% 10 of 10 0 of 1 0% 1 0 0:02
Gillian Robertson 0 9 of 17 52% 31 of 40 0 of 0 --- 0 0 4:13
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Taila Santos 9 of 14 64% 7 of 12 1 of 1 1 of 1 4 of 9 0 of 0 5 of 5
Gillian Robertson 27 of 37 72% 21 of 30 3 of 4 3 of 3 4 of 13 1 of 1 22 of 23
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Taila Santos 6 of 9 66% 5 of 8 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 5 0 of 0 4 of 4
Gillian Robertson 6 of 8 75% 6 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 5
2 Taila Santos 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1
Gillian Robertson 12 of 12 100% 8 of 8 1 of 1 3 of 3 2 of 2 1 of 1 9 of 9
3 Taila Santos 2 of 2 100% 1 of 1 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 9 of 17 52% 7 of 14 2 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 8 0 of 0 8 of 9
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 16, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady picks Gillian Robertson over Taila Santos, emphasizing Robertson's relentless takedown game and BJJ black belt. He notes Santos' inconsistency (bad nerves in the Barella fight, but looked great against McCann). Brady believes if Robertson gets the fight to the mat, she will win by TKO or submission in round three. He also likes the 'fight doesn't go to decision' prop at +155.

fight doesn't go to decision (+155), TKO or submission in round three
"give me jillian robertson by tko or sub whichever one inside the distance"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 16, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The host picks Robertson, believing her grappling and submission threat will be decisive. He notes Santos is a better striker but expects Robertson to drag the fight to the ground and finish via submission or ground-and-pound. He likes the under 2.5 rounds prop.

Under 2.5 rounds (if plus money)
"i'm taking robertson i think she wins either by submission or tko on the ground"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 13, 2020 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The Guru picks Gillian Robertson, citing her superior grappling and submission ability. He notes that Robertson has dominated on the ground against opponents like Poliana Botelho and Courtney Casey, while Santos has been controlled by grapplers like Mara Romero Borella. He predicts a second or third round rear-naked choke submission.

Predicts a submission win, specifically a rear-naked choke in the second or third round.
"i think jillian robertson's got this one in the bag... i think julian robertson gets this one done by third round rear naked choke submission"
WIN vs Molly McCann
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–26) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs. Ige · Jul 16, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Taila Santos 0 48 of 106 45% 67 of 125 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:56
Molly McCann 0 57 of 143 39% 75 of 164 5 of 7 71% 1 0 7:53
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Taila Santos 0 25 of 45 55% 34 of 54 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:26
Molly McCann 0 23 of 54 42% 30 of 62 2 of 3 66% 0 0 1:36
2 Taila Santos 0 8 of 24 33% 13 of 29 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:30
Molly McCann 0 14 of 33 42% 19 of 40 2 of 2 100% 1 0 3:18
3 Taila Santos 0 15 of 37 40% 20 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Molly McCann 0 20 of 56 35% 26 of 62 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:59
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Taila Santos 48 of 106 45% 25 of 79 13 of 17 10 of 10 43 of 96 5 of 10 0 of 0
Molly McCann 57 of 143 39% 24 of 90 21 of 36 12 of 17 34 of 113 12 of 13 11 of 17
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Taila Santos 25 of 45 55% 15 of 34 6 of 7 4 of 4 22 of 42 3 of 3 0 of 0
Molly McCann 23 of 54 42% 5 of 32 12 of 15 6 of 7 16 of 47 7 of 7 0 of 0
2 Taila Santos 8 of 24 33% 2 of 16 3 of 5 3 of 3 6 of 18 2 of 6 0 of 0
Molly McCann 14 of 33 42% 8 of 23 5 of 9 1 of 1 5 of 21 4 of 5 5 of 7
3 Taila Santos 15 of 37 40% 8 of 29 4 of 5 3 of 3 15 of 36 0 of 1 0 of 0
Molly McCann 20 of 56 35% 11 of 35 4 of 12 5 of 9 13 of 45 1 of 1 6 of 10
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 13, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Molly McCann

Big Brady picks Molly McCann, believing she can take Santos down and control the fight on the ground. He notes McCann absorbs too many strikes but thinks Santos can be taken down and that McCann's ground game will be decisive. He predicts a decision win, as McCann is not a knockout threat and Santos has only lost by decision.

Doesn't mind the -120 line; thinks McCann can get the fight to the ground
"I'm gonna go with McCann here to get the fight on the ground win a decision"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jul 14, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Molly McCann

Daniel Levi picks Molly McCann, calling Santos a potential fraud with a padded record. He highlights McCann's improved boxing, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and intensity, and believes she will dominate on the feet and on the mat, possibly by submission or ground-and-pound.

dominant win, possibly by submission or ground-and-pound
"I'm going Molly McCann here"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 12, 2020 (4 days before fight)
Molly McCann

The Guru initially criticizes Taila Santos's record as extremely padded, then briefly retracts, then reaffirms it's padded. He picks Molly McCann based on her scrappy style and better competition (wins over Cori Lipski, Priscila Cachoeira). He also uses a 'food chain' argument: Mara Romero Barela beat Santos by split decision, and McCann is at a similar level. He believes McCann's toughness will carry her.

"I'm definitely begin to be going with money McCann I think she gets it done money McCann is a scrapper a great fighter a tough girl actually goes in there and fight she beat a girl a Corey Lipsky priscila …"
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Assunção vs. Moraes 2 · Feb 02, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mara Romero Borella 0 29 of 83 34% 84 of 140 2 of 5 40% 0 0 5:56
Taila Santos 0 36 of 100 36% 57 of 123 1 of 1 100% 2 0 2:46
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mara Romero Borella 0 11 of 17 64% 36 of 42 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:17
Taila Santos 0 2 of 5 40% 8 of 11 1 of 1 100% 2 0 1:13
2 Mara Romero Borella 0 6 of 15 40% 35 of 45 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:39
Taila Santos 0 9 of 19 47% 24 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:33
3 Mara Romero Borella 0 12 of 51 23% 13 of 53 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Taila Santos 0 25 of 76 32% 25 of 76 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mara Romero Borella 29 of 83 34% 14 of 64 7 of 9 8 of 10 15 of 62 5 of 9 9 of 12
Taila Santos 36 of 100 36% 17 of 69 10 of 20 9 of 11 27 of 89 9 of 11 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mara Romero Borella 11 of 17 64% 9 of 14 2 of 2 0 of 1 1 of 4 1 of 1 9 of 12
Taila Santos 2 of 5 40% 0 of 3 1 of 1 1 of 1 1 of 4 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Mara Romero Borella 6 of 15 40% 2 of 10 3 of 4 1 of 1 3 of 9 3 of 6 0 of 0
Taila Santos 9 of 19 47% 0 of 6 6 of 10 3 of 3 1 of 9 8 of 10 0 of 0
3 Mara Romero Borella 12 of 51 23% 3 of 40 2 of 3 7 of 8 11 of 49 1 of 2 0 of 0
Taila Santos 25 of 76 32% 17 of 60 3 of 9 5 of 7 25 of 76 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson - Fight History
WIN vs Amanda Lemos
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos · Mar 14, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Amanda Lemos 0 42 of 73 57% 51 of 84 1 of 1 100% 1 1 2:04
Gillian Robertson 0 12 of 26 46% 64 of 81 3 of 7 42% 0 2 9:17
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Amanda Lemos 0 25 of 37 67% 27 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 1 1:40
Gillian Robertson 0 5 of 15 33% 9 of 20 1 of 2 50% 0 1 1:38
2 Amanda Lemos 0 10 of 19 52% 11 of 22 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:14
Gillian Robertson 0 2 of 3 66% 26 of 28 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:06
3 Amanda Lemos 0 7 of 17 41% 13 of 23 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:10
Gillian Robertson 0 5 of 8 62% 29 of 33 1 of 4 25% 0 1 3:33
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Amanda Lemos 42 of 73 57% 31 of 61 8 of 8 3 of 4 27 of 57 2 of 2 13 of 14
Gillian Robertson 12 of 26 46% 5 of 12 2 of 4 5 of 10 10 of 23 1 of 1 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Amanda Lemos 25 of 37 67% 18 of 29 6 of 6 1 of 2 12 of 23 1 of 1 12 of 13
Gillian Robertson 5 of 15 33% 2 of 7 1 of 2 2 of 6 5 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Amanda Lemos 10 of 19 52% 7 of 16 1 of 1 2 of 2 9 of 18 0 of 0 1 of 1
Gillian Robertson 2 of 3 66% 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 3 2 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Amanda Lemos 7 of 17 41% 6 of 16 1 of 1 0 of 0 6 of 16 1 of 1 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 5 of 8 62% 3 of 5 1 of 2 1 of 1 3 of 5 1 of 1 1 of 2
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Mar 8, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Angelo picks Gillian Robertson but expresses nervousness. He acknowledges Robertson's poor takedowns and atrocious striking, but believes her relentless pressure and submission threats will cause Amanda Lemos to freeze. He also notes the smaller cage helps Robertson. He points out that Lemos has good takedown defense, having defended nine takedowns from Tatiana Suarez, but still thinks Robertson's volume will win out.

"I'm a little nervous, but I do think Jillian wins this fight."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 9, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady picks Gillian Robertson to win by third-round submission. He likes her move to strawweight (5-1 record) and improved wrestling and ground-and-pound. He notes Lemos's age (38) and 64% takedown defense, and believes Robertson can get takedowns, control top position, and eventually submit her.

"Give me Gillian Robertson to win this fight by third round submission."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Mar 11, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody picks Robertson but with caution. He highlights her improved wrestling and submission game under Dean Thomas, but worries about Lemos' takedown defense and power. He notes Robertson's striking is poor and if she can't get takedowns, she's in trouble. He advises not going too heavy on her.

"I'm probably just going to not have the coonies to take the dog play and take Robertson."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Mar 12, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Connor picks Robertson, citing that Lemos will engage in grappling if she doesn't knock Robertson out, and Robertson's A-game is grappling. He compares it to Lemos's loss to Tatiana Suarez, where Lemos willingly clinched.

Odds: Lemos opened at +210, currently +170; Robertson opened at -250, currently -195.
"I got to pick her."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Mar 8, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

James picks Gillian Robertson to win inside the distance via ground and pound or submission. He highlights Robertson's relentless grappling and Lemos' tendency to regrapple and make poor decisions on the ground. He notes that Lemos has a striking advantage but expects Robertson to eventually get takedowns and finish. He suggests the fight not going to decision as a potential bet.

fight doesn't go to decision
"my official prediction boys will be Jillian Robinson gets this one done inside the distance with a ground and pound or submission attack on the map."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 10, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

The host picks Lemos to win by knockout, believing her power and defensive grappling will be too much for Robertson. He expects Lemos to stuff takedowns and land big shots on the feet, eventually finishing Robertson. He notes that Robertson's lack of striking and physicality will be exposed, and that Lemos's experience against strong grapplers gives her the edge.

Lemos by KO
"I'm going to go with the Brazilian here. I know she's getting up there in age... Lemos has enough defensive grappling to shut that down from Robertson, keep this in the striking game and eventually find that knockout."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 11, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Paul picks Robertson confidently, citing her recent run, coaching from Dean Thomas, and improved wrestling. He believes she will get takedowns and control the fight. He notes Lemos has low volume and can be taken down, though he acknowledges the price is steep.

"Julian Robertson's a pick for me."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2026 (fight day)
Gillian Robertson

The Guru picks Gillian Robertson, despite her lack of striking power, because her grappling is consistent and Lemos has been out-grappled by top opponents. He thinks Robertson will get top position early and submit her in the second round, though he acknowledges Lemos could win if she stuffs a takedown and lands a big shot.

Prediction: submission in the second round
"I'm going to go with Gillian Robertson getting this one done by submission in the second round."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked Mar 12, 2026 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Zane leans Robertson, noting that Lemos will likely initiate grappling if she doesn't knock Robertson out immediately, which plays into Robertson's strength. He acknowledges Robertson could get nuked on the feet but thinks Lemos's tendency to wrestle will cost her.

Odds: Lemos opened at +210, currently +170; Robertson opened at -250, currently -195.
"Yeah, I think I'm leaning Robertson. I mean, it's very clearly a fight where she could get nuked, but she could just hold it together."
CANCEL vs Amanda Lemos
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody picks Robertson, citing her improved grappling and game planning. He notes Lemos's takedown defense issues and expects Robertson to take her down, control position, and win a decision. He likes the decision prop.

Robertson by decision +230
"Gillian Robertson's the pick for me as well."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Dec 12, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Connor picks Lemos, citing her athleticism and the fact that Robertson has never beaten a high-level athlete. He acknowledges Lemos's lack of development and tendency to waste time, but believes Robertson's mental block against athletic opponents will be her undoing. He notes that Lemos's recent wrestling is just a way to slow fights down, not a decisive advantage.

Odds: Lemos +170 underdog. Connor feels the line is long and sees the fight as close to even.
"I think she has unlike Lamo. She has continued to improve... but there is a conspicuous lack of meaningful athletic talent on her under her wind column."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Lucrative James picks Gillian Robertson confidently, emphasizing her relentless grappling and ground-and-pound. He notes Amanda Lemos' takedown defense and fight IQ issues, and believes Robertson will eventually get a takedown and finish via submission or ground-and-pound. He projects Robertson as a -175 favorite.

"My official prediction boys will be Julian Robinson. Gets this one done inside the distance with a ground and pound or submission attack on the map."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Paul also picks Robertson, highlighting her takedown ability and improved striking. He thinks Lemos's low volume and poor takedown defense will be exploited, and expects Robertson to win a decision. He likes the decision prop.

Robertson by decision +230
"G Rob by decision for me."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Dec 12, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Zane picks Robertson but is hesitant, noting that Robertson has a technical advantage and has improved, but has historically struggled against athletic opponents. He worries Robertson may give too much respect to Lemos's speed and power, leading to poor takedown attempts. He sees this as a winnable fight for Robertson if she can stay confident and execute her game plan.

Odds: Robertson opened -110, now -200; Lemos opened -110, now +170. Zane notes the line feels long and sees the fight as close to even.
"I'm gonna pick my mush. I'm gonna stick with the idea that there's just a ceiling to Robertson's game that she imposes on herself."
KO R2 2:07 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo · May 03, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marina Rodriguez 0 4 of 17 23% 7 of 20 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
Gillian Robertson 0 16 of 41 39% 73 of 120 2 of 3 66% 0 0 5:21
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marina Rodriguez 0 2 of 13 15% 5 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gillian Robertson 0 11 of 25 44% 42 of 63 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:34
2 Marina Rodriguez 0 2 of 4 50% 2 of 4 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
Gillian Robertson 0 5 of 16 31% 31 of 57 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:47
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marina Rodriguez 4 of 17 23% 3 of 14 1 of 3 0 of 0 4 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 16 of 41 39% 12 of 32 2 of 6 2 of 3 6 of 20 0 of 0 10 of 21
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marina Rodriguez 2 of 13 15% 2 of 11 0 of 2 0 of 0 2 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 11 of 25 44% 7 of 17 2 of 5 2 of 3 6 of 17 0 of 0 5 of 8
2 Marina Rodriguez 2 of 4 50% 1 of 3 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 5 of 16 31% 5 of 15 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 13
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 27, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Angelo points out that Marina Rodriguez has poor takedown defense, which Gillian Robertson can exploit with her grappling. He acknowledges that Robertson's takedowns are not spectacular but should be sufficient. He expects Robertson to get the fight to the ground and control it, though he notes it could be a close decision due to Rodriguez's striking ability.

"Jillian is the pick. And because Marina is so battle tested, this could be a split decision."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 29, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady is confident in Gillian Robertson, citing a clear stylistic advantage. He explains that Marina Rodriguez has poor willingness to get up after being taken down, and at 38 years old, she won't improve that. Robertson is younger and will take Rodriguez down, control her on the ground, and cruise to a 30-27 decision. He notes that Rodriguez has survived finishes against solid grapplers but loses minutes on bottom.

Decision win
"Got to be Robertson here. Um she's much younger. Um I think she's been looking great at Strowway."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 1, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

This is a clear striker vs grappler matchup. Robertson has the grappling advantage and should exploit Rodriguez's poor takedown defense and getups. I expect Robertson to secure a submission victory.

submission
"I fully expect Robertson to grind this fight out, landing those opportune takedowns and taking advantage of the poor takedown defense and getups of Rodriguez, which should eventually lead to Robertson landing and securing a submission victory."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Apr 30, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

The MMA Guru picks Marina Rodriguez as an underdog, despite originally leaning towards Gillian Robertson. He argues that Robertson's offensive wrestling isn't at the level of others who have taken Rodriguez down, and that Rodriguez will outland her on the feet. He believes Rodriguez has good takedown defense and has survived submission attempts from Mackenzie Dern. He predicts Rodriguez wins on damage, possibly by third-round TKO.

underdog pick at +260, possible third-round TKO
"I'm going to go with Marina Rodriguez pulling off the upset here as a plus 260 underdog."
Decision (unanimous) (29–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates · Nov 09, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gillian Robertson 0 42 of 105 40% 63 of 128 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:17
Luana Pinheiro 0 52 of 108 48% 78 of 145 5 of 17 29% 0 1 8:13
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gillian Robertson 0 14 of 38 36% 16 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Luana Pinheiro 0 15 of 32 46% 15 of 35 3 of 8 37% 0 0 2:33
2 Gillian Robertson 0 25 of 61 40% 29 of 65 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Luana Pinheiro 0 20 of 47 42% 22 of 55 1 of 6 16% 0 0 1:22
3 Gillian Robertson 0 3 of 6 50% 18 of 21 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:13
Luana Pinheiro 0 17 of 29 58% 41 of 55 1 of 3 33% 0 1 4:18
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gillian Robertson 42 of 105 40% 23 of 84 16 of 18 3 of 3 41 of 102 1 of 3 0 of 0
Luana Pinheiro 52 of 108 48% 33 of 72 5 of 18 14 of 18 28 of 76 4 of 4 20 of 28
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gillian Robertson 14 of 38 36% 8 of 32 5 of 5 1 of 1 14 of 37 0 of 1 0 of 0
Luana Pinheiro 15 of 32 46% 6 of 17 2 of 5 7 of 10 9 of 23 1 of 1 5 of 8
2 Gillian Robertson 25 of 61 40% 13 of 48 11 of 12 1 of 1 24 of 59 1 of 2 0 of 0
Luana Pinheiro 20 of 47 42% 11 of 32 3 of 9 6 of 6 17 of 44 3 of 3 0 of 0
3 Gillian Robertson 3 of 6 50% 2 of 4 0 of 1 1 of 1 3 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Luana Pinheiro 17 of 29 58% 16 of 23 0 of 4 1 of 2 2 of 9 0 of 0 15 of 20
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 3, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Angelo argues that since Luana Pinheiro was submitted by Angela Hill (the least dangerous grappler), she will certainly be submitted by Gillian Robertson, who has the most submission wins in flyweight history. He acknowledges Pinheiro has decent takedown defense and striking, but the MMA math leads him to Robertson. He calls it the only logical conclusion.

"Jillian Robertson has to be the pick here that has to be the only logical conclusion that you could draw so Jillian Robertson's the pick simple done"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 7, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady believes this is a terrible matchup for Pinheiro, who fades after 7.5 minutes and has been submitted before. He praises Robertson's size, strength, cardio, and ground game, predicting she will take over late and submit Pinheiro in the second round.

Robertson by submission, round 2
"I'll take Jillian Robertson second round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody echoes Paul's concerns about Pinheiro's wrestling and notes her quit in the Ronda Marcos fight. He highlights Robertson's high ring IQ and ability to grind opponents down with ground and pound. Cody expects Robertson to dominate on the mat and finish or win a clear decision.

"I think Jullian Robertson rolls here I would love the CF dot model myself but minus 400 favorite seems pretty accurate for Robertson."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Nov 7, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Pinheiro's striking is aimless and formless. He thinks Robertson can ride out Pinheiro's initial success and eventually get her to the mat. He expects a submission win for Robertson.

"I think Robertson can ride out Pinero's success and eventually get her to the mat and start beating her."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Daniel Vreeland confidently picks Gillian Robertson, highlighting her record for most submission wins in UFC women's history and her ability to get takedowns. He criticizes Luana Pinheiro's toughness and cites past performances where Pinheiro was taken down and submitted by lesser grapplers. Vreeland expects Robertson to dominate on the ground and secure a finish.

"My pick is Julian Robertson."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Nov 5, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Lucrative James confidently picks Gillian Robertson to win by submission. He highlights that Robertson has more physicality at strawweight and is a dangerous BJJ artist, while Pinheiro has cardio issues and is not strong in grappling. He predicts Robertson will get top position and finish via rear-naked choke or armbar, and also suggests the fight won't go to decision.

by submission, fight doesn't go to decision, under 2.5 rounds
"Julian Robinson to win via submission"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 8, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Gillian Robertson

This is a horrible stylistic matchup for Pinheiro. If she can't get success in the first round, Robertson will wear her down with pressure and pace, leading to a submission victory in round two.

wins by submission, round 2
"this is a horrible stylistic match up for Pinero if she's unable to get success in the first round which will eventually lead to Robertson wearing her down with the pressure and Pace eventually leading to a submission victory for …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Paul sees Pinheiro's takedown defense as a major red flag, citing her struggles against Angela Hill and Michelle Waterson. He believes Robertson's relentless top control and submission threats will be too much. Paul likes Robertson by submission and thinks the -400 line is accurate.

Robertson by submission
"I think like plus 140 Jillian Robertson by sub is how I would bet this fight."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The Guru picks Gillian Robertson, citing her grappling advantage and recent submission wins. He notes Luana Pinheiro's two-fight losing streak and that Robertson is a big favorite. He expects Robertson to implement her grappling and get a submission or TKO finish.

submission or TKO finish
"I'll go Julian Robertson getting her grappling off and implementing that part of her game"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Nov 7, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Zane picks Robertson confidently. He notes that Pinheiro has a one-dimensional judo clinch game and no real striking. Robertson is a diligent takedown artist and ruthless on the ground. He expects Robertson to get the takedown and likely submit Pinheiro.

"I'm going to pick Jillian Robertson to beat her."
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–26) R3 5:00 · UFC 303: Pereira vs. Prochazka 2 · Jun 29, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gillian Robertson 0 21 of 52 40% 41 of 75 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:19
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 0 77 of 105 73% 122 of 156 2 of 6 33% 2 0 12:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gillian Robertson 0 11 of 37 29% 15 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 0 27 of 43 62% 36 of 53 1 of 3 33% 0 0 3:23
2 Gillian Robertson 0 4 of 6 66% 13 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 0 27 of 31 87% 48 of 53 1 of 3 33% 1 0 4:49
3 Gillian Robertson 0 6 of 9 66% 13 of 17 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:19
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 0 23 of 31 74% 38 of 50 0 of 0 --- 1 0 4:22
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gillian Robertson 21 of 52 40% 19 of 48 1 of 3 1 of 1 9 of 37 3 of 4 9 of 11
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 77 of 105 73% 67 of 94 9 of 9 1 of 2 10 of 24 0 of 0 67 of 81
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gillian Robertson 11 of 37 29% 9 of 33 1 of 3 1 of 1 8 of 33 0 of 1 3 of 3
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 27 of 43 62% 23 of 39 3 of 3 1 of 1 8 of 19 0 of 0 19 of 24
2 Gillian Robertson 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 2 3 of 3 0 of 1
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 27 of 31 87% 22 of 26 5 of 5 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 26 of 30
3 Gillian Robertson 6 of 9 66% 6 of 9 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 2 0 of 0 6 of 7
Michelle Waterson-Gomez 23 of 31 74% 22 of 29 1 of 1 0 of 1 1 of 4 0 of 0 22 of 27
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody picks Robertson, citing her youth, grappling advantage, and recent improvements. He notes that Waterson is 38 and on a losing streak, and that her takedown defense has declined. Cody believes Robertson will take Waterson down and control the fight on the ground, possibly winning by submission or decision. He also mentions that Robertson has been working on her cardio and game planning.

"Robertson at some point's gonna get it to the ground for two of the three rounds and either wins a decision or maybe latches onto the neck and subs her."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jun 27, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Daniel believes Robertson's path is to get takedowns and maul Waterson on the ground, either by submission or ground-and-pound TKO. He notes Robertson holds the record for most submissions in women's UFC history. He sees Waterson's only path being keeping it standing or hitting a sneaky submission, but thinks Robertson will eventually get her down.

wins by submission or TKO
"I'm gonna go with Julian Robertson here to come through and possibly finish the karate hottie Michelle Waterson."
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)

The host does not discuss this fight at all in the transcript. The entire podcast is focused on the Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler fight, which is not on the provided fight card. Therefore, no pick is made for this fight.

MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 25, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The host is confident Robertson will get a submission, citing her relentless grappling and ability to take the back. He notes Waterson-Gomez is on a four-fight losing streak and slowing down at 38. He expects Robertson to eventually secure a takedown and find a choke, recommending Robertson by submission as the best bet.

Robertson by submission
"Give me Jillian Robertson to get a submission over Michelle Waterson Gomez."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 26, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Paul picks Robertson, noting that Waterson is past her prime and has lost six of her last seven. He believes Robertson's grappling will be too much for Waterson, who has been submitted before. Paul also mentions that Robertson is younger and improving, while Waterson's best days are behind her.

"Give me the younger up-and-comer in Gillian Robertson who I see making improvements."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 25, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Michelle Waterson-Gomez

The Guru picks Michelle Waterson-Gomez as an underdog over Gillian Robertson. He praises Waterson's takedown defense and striking, saying she is levels above Robertson on the feet. He doubts Robertson's ability to harm anyone standing. He expects Waterson to win by decision.

"I'm going to go with Michelle Waterson Gomez... Michelle Waterson shall win"
WIN vs Polyana Viana
TKO (punches) R2 3:12 · UFC 297: Strickland vs. du Plessis · Jan 20, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gillian Robertson 0 23 of 39 58% 49 of 91 2 of 2 100% 1 0 6:06
Polyana Viana 0 12 of 41 29% 33 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gillian Robertson 0 8 of 13 61% 16 of 23 1 of 1 100% 1 0 3:52
Polyana Viana 0 8 of 18 44% 20 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
2 Gillian Robertson 0 15 of 26 57% 33 of 68 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:14
Polyana Viana 0 4 of 23 17% 13 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gillian Robertson 23 of 39 58% 20 of 35 0 of 0 3 of 4 5 of 13 0 of 0 18 of 26
Polyana Viana 12 of 41 29% 10 of 37 2 of 3 0 of 1 9 of 37 0 of 0 3 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gillian Robertson 8 of 13 61% 7 of 12 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 5 0 of 0 6 of 8
Polyana Viana 8 of 18 44% 7 of 16 1 of 2 0 of 0 5 of 14 0 of 0 3 of 4
2 Gillian Robertson 15 of 26 57% 13 of 23 0 of 0 2 of 3 3 of 8 0 of 0 12 of 18
Polyana Viana 4 of 23 17% 3 of 21 1 of 1 0 of 1 4 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Gillian Robertson vs. Polyana Viana
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Robertson (-230), Viana (+190)

Round 1
Strawweight grapplers are up next, with Robertson trying to even things up at 2-2 for Team Canada against her Brazilian counterpart. The referee is Kevin Macdonald. Both women are in orthodox stance, and Viana is the first to land, sticking Robertson with a long jab. They exchange jabs and Viana punctuates with a body kick. Robertson times a nice single-leg and hauls Viana down with ease. Robertson is on top in Viana’s half guard, leaning across her body and elbowing the ribs. Viana locks down the left leg and Robertson works for a straight armlock on the far arm. Robertson gives up on the arm attack and goes heavy on top, working to pass her guard as she does. Robertson throws two elbow strikes and slides right into mount. A couple more elbow strikes and Viana turns to the side. Robertson applies an arm-triangle choke and tries to move out to the side to finish. Viana manages to regain guard, but gives up her back a moment later. A minute to go in the round and Robertson is in back mount. She goes supine, rolls Viana on top of her, and Viana gives up mount. Robertson peels off for an armbar. It’s locked in and close to danger territory, but Viana extricates her arm and escapes. They return to their feet at the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Robertson
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Robertson
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Robertson

Round 2
Viana lands a low kick and slips the counter coming back her way. Viana tags Robertson with a straight right, then another, both of which glance off the guard. Robertson steps in, grabs a single-leg and gets another effortless takedown. She moves quickly to mount and Viana turns her back. Robertson is on top, drops an elbow and is in position to look for a choke if the opportunity presents itself. Robertson throws several hard punches that bounce off the forearm but still rattle the Brazilian’s head.
Robertson is all over Viana at the halfway point of the round, landing ground-and-pound. She keeps pouring it on and after 10 or more solid blows with no reaction from the turtled Viana, Macdonald steps in for the stoppage.

The Official Result
Gillian Robertson def. Polyana Viana R2 3:12 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jan 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Angelo picks Robertson but with medium confidence, noting her grappling credentials and record submission wins. He criticizes her inability to get fights to the ground despite being a great grappler, and acknowledges Viana's own dangerous ground game. He expects Robertson to win via grappling but is wary of Viana's toughness and cardio.

"she should be good enough to beat paana Viana here I say medium confidence for her to get it done"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 15, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady is confident in Robertson because Viana has poor takedown defense and is content to play off her back, which plays into Robertson's strength. He notes Robertson has good ground and pound and submissions, while Viana's only path is a knockout. He predicts Robertson will get the fight down and submit Viana in the second round.

second round submission
"I'll take her to win this fight fight by second round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jan 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody picks Robertson, citing her superior wrestling and grappling. He questions Viana's jiu-jitsu and cardio, noting she gets tired and gives up submissions. He believes Robertson will take her down and control the fight.

"Robertson... she's got the superior grappling and the superior pace."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jan 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Daniel Vreeland picks Gillian Robertson by submission. He notes Robertson is one-dimensional but dangerous on the mat, while Viana can crack on the feet but is susceptible to submissions. He expects Robertson to chain takedowns and have her way on top, leading to a submission win.

by submission
"I'm gonna go Julian Robertson here"
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Feb 6, 2025 (fight day)

This fight is not discussed in the transcript. The host does not mention Robertson vs Viana.

MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 15, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

I expect Robertson to drag this fight to the ground and utilize her superior Jiu-Jitsu to control top position and eventually open up a submission opportunity. Viana relies too much on her guard off her back, and Robertson has good enough Jiu-Jitsu to stay out of submission threats. I think it's just a matter of time once the fight hits the mat that Robertson can work to a dominant position and sink in a submission. I like the under 2.5 rounds prop as well.

under 2.5 rounds, submission victory
"gim me Robertson again chalky under 2 and 1 half is another spot that I really like"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jan 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Polyana Viana

Paul picks Viana as a chaos pick, noting her volatility and submission threat. He acknowledges Robertson is more likely to win but has a gut feeling Viana could pull off an armbar. He suggests Viana inside the distance as a better bet.

Viana inside the distance at +600
"I'll pick Polyana Viana to pull off the upset in something super stupid."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 15, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The MMA Guru picks Gillian Robertson, calling her a slight step above 'bottom feeder trash.' He criticizes Polyana Viana's lack of commitment and poor competition, noting she hasn't beaten anyone good. He believes Robertson can get top position safely and avoid Viana's submission threat.

"I'm going to go Julian Robertson now are both of them not good yes neither of them are really that good"
LOSS vs Tabatha Ricci
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Emmett vs. Topuria · Jun 24, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tabatha Ricci 0 100 of 315 31% 101 of 318 3 of 8 37% 0 0 0:38
Gillian Robertson 0 76 of 219 34% 78 of 225 1 of 4 25% 0 0 0:26
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tabatha Ricci 0 29 of 80 36% 30 of 81 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:30
Gillian Robertson 0 12 of 48 25% 14 of 53 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:01
2 Tabatha Ricci 0 31 of 114 27% 31 of 115 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:08
Gillian Robertson 0 36 of 86 41% 36 of 86 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Tabatha Ricci 0 40 of 121 33% 40 of 122 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Gillian Robertson 0 28 of 85 32% 28 of 86 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:25
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tabatha Ricci 100 of 315 31% 59 of 257 17 of 25 24 of 33 95 of 306 3 of 7 2 of 2
Gillian Robertson 76 of 219 34% 31 of 150 24 of 40 21 of 29 74 of 212 2 of 7 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tabatha Ricci 29 of 80 36% 17 of 60 2 of 6 10 of 14 27 of 77 0 of 1 2 of 2
Gillian Robertson 12 of 48 25% 4 of 34 4 of 9 4 of 5 12 of 46 0 of 2 0 of 0
2 Tabatha Ricci 31 of 114 27% 16 of 94 8 of 10 7 of 10 31 of 112 0 of 2 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 36 of 86 41% 14 of 56 9 of 12 13 of 18 35 of 83 1 of 3 0 of 0
3 Tabatha Ricci 40 of 121 33% 26 of 103 7 of 9 7 of 9 37 of 117 3 of 4 0 of 0
Gillian Robertson 28 of 85 32% 13 of 60 11 of 19 4 of 6 27 of 83 1 of 2 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 18, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Angelo picks Tabatha Ricci, citing her strength, pressure, and superior grappling. He believes Ricci is too strong for Gillian Robertson to take down and will be the better grappler on the ground. He has half a unit on Ricci at -121 and notes the line has yo-yoed. He sees Ricci as the next evolution of the wrestle-boxer style.

half unit on Tabatha Ricci at -121
"I just like Tabitha Ricci to get it done I have half a unit on her at minus 121"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jun 21, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Big Brady leans towards Tabatha Ricci, believing she will be the better wrestler and striker. He notes Robertson's poor takedown defense (25%) and tendency to accept being on her back. He thinks Ricci's Judo background and BJJ black belt will allow her to get takedowns and control the fight. He predicts a decision win but acknowledges it could go either way.

"I'll say Tabitha Richie grinds this one out and wins a decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody picks Robertson, citing her size and strength advantage. He notes her grappling credentials but acknowledges her struggles against good wrestlers. He thinks the plus money is worth it and expects a close fight.

"I'll take the plus money on whoever it is and it's Tabitha Richie so I'm taking the plus money is on Jillian Robertson."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Jun 22, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Connor picks Ricci because she is strong, an excellent grappler, and increasingly comfortable on the feet. He notes that Robertson's winning condition is narrow: she must get on top and dominate with submissions or ground and pound. Ricci is difficult to take down and is rapidly improving everywhere, while Robertson had to learn striking and still looks awkward. Connor also points out that Ricci seems to enjoy striking and will look significantly faster than Robertson. He suggests Ricci could even choose to avoid grappling entirely and work on her striking against a slower, more cumbersome opponent.

"I got to pick Ricci just to be able to dart in and land big right hands. And hit double legs."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jun 22, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Daniel Levi picks Tabatha Ricci, citing her ability to keep the fight standing or wrestle in reverse. He notes Robertson's submission threat but thinks Ricci's jiu-jitsu and physicality can neutralize it. He believes Ricci has more paths to victory and can survive on the ground if needed.

"I just I just see more paths for Richie"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

The host picks Tabatha Ricci to win by decision. He believes Ricci is a superior grappler and wrestler who will get top position and control Robertson. He notes Robertson's tendency to play off her back and thinks Ricci will be too privy to her submission attempts. He expects Ricci to dominate the fight with top control and win a decision.

"I think that Tabitha Richie will shut all of that down I think she is a superior Grappler"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 21, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Paul picks Ricci, citing her striking advantage and top control. He notes her training with Mackenzie Dern and thinks she can avoid Robertson's submissions. He mentions he already bet Ricci at -125.

"I've got yeah minus 125 Tabitha Ricci."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The Guru picks Gillian Robertson over the majority pick Tabatha Ricci. He believes Robertson's length and reach advantage will allow her to lead the dance, and she does more damage on the ground with ground and pound. He thinks both are grapplers but Robertson's aggression and experience will win her a split decision based on damage.

Predicts split decision win.
"I'm actually gonna go with Jillian Robertson here over Tabitha for Richie"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Jun 22, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Tabatha Ricci

Zane agrees with Connor, picking Ricci. He notes that Robertson's winning condition is narrow: she must get on top and dominate with submissions or ground and pound. Ricci is difficult to take down and is rapidly improving everywhere, while Robertson had to learn striking and still looks awkward. Zane also points out that Ricci seems to enjoy striking and will look significantly faster than Robertson. He suggests Ricci could even choose to avoid grappling entirely and work on her striking against a slower, more cumbersome opponent.

"I think I'm with you. I just think Julian Robertson's wind condition is very narrow, like she has to be able to out wrestle somebody because she has to get on top of them."
Submission (armbar) R2 4:21 · UFC on ESPN: Holloway vs. Allen · Apr 15, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gillian Robertson 0 26 of 39 66% 46 of 62 2 of 3 66% 1 0 6:23
Piera Rodríguez 0 12 of 33 36% 25 of 47 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:54
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gillian Robertson 0 13 of 25 52% 20 of 34 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:12
Piera Rodríguez 0 12 of 29 41% 24 of 42 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:54
2 Gillian Robertson 0 13 of 14 92% 26 of 28 1 of 1 100% 1 0 4:11
Piera Rodríguez 0 0 of 4 0% 1 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gillian Robertson 26 of 39 66% 20 of 29 1 of 4 5 of 6 12 of 23 0 of 0 14 of 16
Piera Rodríguez 12 of 33 36% 10 of 31 1 of 1 1 of 1 12 of 33 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gillian Robertson 13 of 25 52% 8 of 16 1 of 4 4 of 5 11 of 22 0 of 0 2 of 3
Piera Rodríguez 12 of 29 41% 10 of 27 1 of 1 1 of 1 12 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Gillian Robertson 13 of 14 92% 12 of 13 0 of 0 1 of 1 1 of 1 0 of 0 12 of 13
Piera Rodríguez 0 of 4 0% 0 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 9, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Angelo picks Piera Rodríguez as a live underdog, citing her nasty striking, finishing ability, and 77% takedown defense. He notes that Gillian Robertson's takedowns are terrible and her striking is not good enough to hang. He expects Rodríguez to defend takedowns, win striking exchanges, and potentially get her own takedowns. He has a small quarter-unit bet on her at +102.

quarter unit moneyline bet at +102
"I have a small quarter of a uni money line bet on for her Rodriguez at plus 102"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Big Brady picks Piera Rodríguez to win a close decision. He notes Rodríguez's striking advantage and solid takedown defense (77%), while Robertson has poor takedown defense (28%). He is concerned about Robertson's weight cut to strawweight but leans Rodríguez due to her ability to keep the fight standing and potentially land takedowns.

"I actually lean uh the Rodriguez side I think she's going to have some advantages here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 12, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Cody bet Robertson earlier at plus money and notes her grappling is strong, especially at strawweight where she is undefeated. He thinks the weight cut may help her strength and control. He acknowledges Rodriguez's improvements but sticks with Robertson.

Bet Robertson at +109 earlier
"I've got Robertson at like a half decent price but um not gonna be stunned if I uh if I absolutely lose it but I'm gonna pick Robertson"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 13, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Connor agrees, noting that Robertson's striking is bad and she looks surprised when hit. He believes Rodriguez has the control of distance and wrestling to handle Robertson's grappling, and that Robertson's only chance is to get on top, but the process of getting there is chaotic.

"Yeah, I'm inclined to agree. I would really like to see Robertson turn that corner and it might still happen."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Rodríguez's striking and improved grappling will be too much for Robertson, who is one-dimensional with her BJJ. Robertson struggles to get fights to the ground and gets outstruck. Rodríguez has shown good takedown defense and can work back to her feet. Her aggression and clinch knees should win rounds. Robertson's experience won't overcome the skill gap.

"I like everything that I'm seeing from Rodriguez I'm loving the improvements I'm seeing as well and I would be happy to take her as the underdog."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Apr 12, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Paul likes Rodriguez as a slight underdog, citing her wrestling, cardio, and training camp. He thinks Robertson's striking is poor and that Rodriguez can win the stand-up and avoid submissions. He expects a 29-28 decision for Rodriguez.

"I think she wins the fight does it didn't really matter what the odds were she could have been the minus 130 versus plus 110 Julian Robinson I was picking Rodriguez"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Apr 11, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

The MMA Guru edges Piera Rodríguez in a close fight, citing her well-rounded skills, striking accuracy, and takedown defense (77%). He was initially leaning toward Robertson but was impressed by Rodríguez's tape. He thinks Rodríguez can stuff takedowns and outpoint Robertson, though Robertson's grappling is always a threat.

"I will Edge Pierre Rodriguez"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 13, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Piera Rodríguez

Zane picks Rodriguez because she looks controlled, moves in combination, and gets out of the pocket quickly. He notes that Robertson's striking is bad and she closes her eyes when hit, and that Rodriguez has the requisite control of distance and is a solid wrestler.

"I'm going to pick Rodriguez. I think she's looked controlled in her fights."
Expert Picks (3)
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 16, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

Big Brady picks Gillian Robertson over Taila Santos, emphasizing Robertson's relentless takedown game and BJJ black belt. He notes Santos' inconsistency (bad nerves in the Barella fight, but looked great against McCann). Brady believes if Robertson gets the fight to the mat, she will win by TKO or submission in round three. He also likes the 'fight doesn't go to decision' prop at +155.

fight doesn't go to decision (+155), TKO or submission in round three
"give me jillian robertson by tko or sub whichever one inside the distance"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 16, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The host picks Robertson, believing her grappling and submission threat will be decisive. He notes Santos is a better striker but expects Robertson to drag the fight to the ground and finish via submission or ground-and-pound. He likes the under 2.5 rounds prop.

Under 2.5 rounds (if plus money)
"i'm taking robertson i think she wins either by submission or tko on the ground"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 13, 2020 (6 days before fight)
Gillian Robertson

The Guru picks Gillian Robertson, citing her superior grappling and submission ability. He notes that Robertson has dominated on the ground against opponents like Poliana Botelho and Courtney Casey, while Santos has been controlled by grapplers like Mara Romero Borella. He predicts a second or third round rear-naked choke submission.

Predicts a submission win, specifically a rear-naked choke in the second or third round.
"i think jillian robertson's got this one in the bag... i think julian robertson gets this one done by third round rear naked choke submission"