vs
-130 +136
UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria · Feb 17, 2024 · Women's Strawweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria Next Fight
Age 39
Height 5' 4"
Reach 65.0"
Weight 115 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Age 33
Height 5' 4"
Reach 63.0"
Weight 115 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Amanda Lemos
2.75 SLpM
55.0% Str. Acc.
3.01 SApM
45.0% Str. Def.
1.02 TD Avg
64.0% TD Acc.
63.0% TD Def.
0.7 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Mackenzie Dern
3.47 SLpM
41.0% Str. Acc.
3.93 SApM
51.0% Str. Def.
0.93 TD Avg
18.0% TD Acc.
37.0% TD Def.
1.1 Sub. Avg
Amanda Lemos
Moneyline
BetWay -130
KO/TKO
FanDuel +190
Submission
FanDuel +1700
Decision
BetMGM +350
Mackenzie Dern
Moneyline
DraftKings +136
KO/TKO
FanDuel +1200
Submission
BetRivers +295
Decision
BetRivers +480
Amanda Lemos - Fight History
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 Gillian Robertson
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."
LOSS vs Tatiana Suarez
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lopes vs. Silva · Sep 13, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tatiana Suarez 0 20 of 39 51% 70 of 91 3 of 12 25% 0 0 9:34
Amanda Lemos 0 23 of 33 69% 39 of 49 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tatiana Suarez 0 7 of 10 70% 25 of 30 1 of 5 20% 0 0 2:58
Amanda Lemos 0 5 of 6 83% 6 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
2 Tatiana Suarez 0 5 of 14 35% 27 of 36 1 of 2 50% 0 0 4:00
Amanda Lemos 0 5 of 5 100% 16 of 16 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
3 Tatiana Suarez 0 8 of 15 53% 18 of 25 1 of 5 20% 0 0 2:36
Amanda Lemos 0 13 of 22 59% 17 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:31
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tatiana Suarez 20 of 39 51% 1 of 11 10 of 17 9 of 11 9 of 24 11 of 15 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 23 of 33 69% 12 of 21 4 of 5 7 of 7 14 of 22 4 of 4 5 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tatiana Suarez 7 of 10 70% 0 of 0 1 of 4 6 of 6 6 of 9 1 of 1 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 5 of 6 83% 0 of 0 4 of 5 1 of 1 5 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Tatiana Suarez 5 of 14 35% 1 of 7 3 of 5 1 of 2 1 of 6 4 of 8 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 5 of 5 100% 1 of 1 0 of 0 4 of 4 4 of 4 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Tatiana Suarez 8 of 15 53% 0 of 4 6 of 8 2 of 3 2 of 9 6 of 6 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 13 of 22 59% 11 of 20 0 of 0 2 of 2 5 of 12 3 of 3 5 of 7
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Tatiana Suarez

Angelo picks Tatiana, believing her wrestling will be too hard to consistently stop. He notes she is a dominant wrestler with almost five takedowns per 15 minutes, though her striking is just okay. He acknowledges Lemos has a ton of high-level experience and power, but thinks Tatiana's relentless pressure and ability to find a submission could be key. He mentions the -400 odds are tough to lay four units on someone coming off a loss, but still picks Tatiana.

Could be a sneaky under two and a half type bet when those round lines drop.
"I'm definitely going to pick Tatiana. I think the wrestling is just going to be too hard to consistently stop."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Tatiana Suarez

Big Brady picks Suarez despite her poor last performance against Jandiroba, noting Lemos fared even worse against the same opponent. He highlights Lemos's inability to stuff takedowns and suspect submission defense. He predicts Suarez wins by second-round submission, though he has concerns about her cardio and striking defense.

Second round submission
"I'm going to take Suarez to win this fight by second round submission."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Tatiana Suarez

The host considers this a horrible stylistic matchup for Lemos, expecting Suarez to land takedowns, work to a dominant position, and eventually secure a submission. This is a strong pick with high confidence.

win by submission
"We should eventually see Suarez land those takedowns and work to a position where she can eventually incorporate a submission and force the tap from the Brazilian."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Tatiana Suarez

The MMA Guru picks Tatiana Suarez, believing her grappling will be decisive. He notes Lemos has been outgrappled before and her aggressive style (big power swings, guillotine attempts) will leave her open to Suarez's takedowns. He predicts a second or third round ground-and-pound TKO, possibly from crucifix position.

Round 2 or 3 TKO
"I'm going to have to go with Tatiana Suarez. I think Lemos's style of fighting ... will leave her more open to the grappling of Suarez."
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev · Mar 08, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Amanda Lemos 0 12 of 21 57% 30 of 42 3 of 5 60% 0 0 7:58
Iasmin Lucindo 0 4 of 16 25% 40 of 56 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Amanda Lemos 0 3 of 5 60% 8 of 10 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:40
Iasmin Lucindo 0 0 of 4 0% 11 of 17 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:47
2 Amanda Lemos 0 7 of 12 58% 10 of 16 1 of 3 33% 0 0 3:41
Iasmin Lucindo 0 0 of 3 0% 12 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
3 Amanda Lemos 0 2 of 4 50% 12 of 16 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:37
Iasmin Lucindo 0 4 of 9 44% 17 of 24 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:55
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Amanda Lemos 12 of 21 57% 8 of 16 2 of 3 2 of 2 7 of 14 1 of 1 4 of 6
Iasmin Lucindo 4 of 16 25% 2 of 12 2 of 3 0 of 1 1 of 13 2 of 2 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Amanda Lemos 3 of 5 60% 2 of 4 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 2
Iasmin Lucindo 0 of 4 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Amanda Lemos 7 of 12 58% 4 of 8 2 of 3 1 of 1 3 of 7 1 of 1 3 of 4
Iasmin Lucindo 0 of 3 0% 0 of 2 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Amanda Lemos 2 of 4 50% 2 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Iasmin Lucindo 4 of 9 44% 2 of 7 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 6 2 of 2 1 of 1
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Connor picks Lemos because she is a physical force who can hit hard and is strong in the clinch. He notes that Lucindo is raw and messy, relying on speed and counters, but Lemos has excellent timing and power. Connor worries about Lemos's tendency to wrestle, which could play into Lucindo's hands, but believes Lemos's strength and durability will carry her. He sees Lucindo as too young and raw for this step up.

Odds: Lemos opened at -130, now +130; Lucindo opened at -110, now -140. Connor is surprised Lucindo is favored.
"I think I have to pick Limo. I think so too. I mean, the prospect of staying at long range and waiting and hoping to time a man to lamos, yeah, is a fundamentally dangerous proposition."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Iasmin Lucindo

Lucrative James picks Lucindo, citing her youth, grappling advantage, and multiple paths to victory. He notes Lemos is a better striker but has clear grappling deficiencies, having been submitted before. He thinks Lucindo can win by submission or decision through grappling control. He mentions he cashed on Lucindo by submission before and sees value in that prop.

Lucindo via submission at +550 (BetOnline); also decision win possible
"I have to side with Yasmin lendo here she's got better fight IQ she has more ways to win CU she can compete in the strike and if she stays at range but she can win via submiss and win …"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Zane picks Lemos, agreeing that Lucindo is too raw and that Lemos's power and physicality will be too much. He notes that Lucindo's game is unstructured and she struggles to initiate, while Lemos is a fast starter with excellent timing. Zane also points out that Lucindo's wins over bigger names may be due to catching them at the right time, and Lemos is still a formidable athlete despite her age.

Odds: Lemos opened at -130, now +130; Lucindo opened at -110, now -140. Zane is surprised Lucindo is favored.
"I think this is actually a case where she is too young and raw for this fighter right now and she does not look like yeah, any of the fighters that have beat Amanda Lamos in the past several years."
LOSS vs Virna Jandiroba
Submission (armbar) R2 4:48 · UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba · Jul 20, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Virna Jandiroba 0 2 of 9 22% 5 of 12 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:51
Amanda Lemos 0 2 of 8 25% 20 of 27 1 of 5 20% 4 1 6:27
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Virna Jandiroba 0 1 of 1 100% 3 of 3 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:26
Amanda Lemos 0 0 of 1 0% 8 of 9 1 of 1 100% 2 0 3:42
2 Virna Jandiroba 0 1 of 8 12% 2 of 9 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:25
Amanda Lemos 0 2 of 7 28% 12 of 18 0 of 4 0% 2 1 2:45
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Virna Jandiroba 2 of 9 22% 2 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 1 1 of 8 0 of 0 1 of 1
Amanda Lemos 2 of 8 25% 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 1 2 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Virna Jandiroba 1 of 1 100% 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1
Amanda Lemos 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Virna Jandiroba 1 of 8 12% 1 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 1 1 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 2 of 7 28% 2 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 1 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Angelo picks Virna Jandiroba because she will grind and get takedowns, neutralizing Amanda Lemos's striking. He notes that Lemos is the better mixed martial artist but cannot defend takedowns. He plans to wait for prop bets, especially the takedown line, and considers Jandiroba affordable at even money.

waiting for prop bets, especially takedown line
"I've got to pick Verna here this is definitely a steep test it'll be her first five round fight at first Main Event she is Affordable at even money"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Cody picks Jandiroba, emphasizing her freakish strength, takedown ability, and durability. He notes Lemos has cardio issues and has been taken down repeatedly by lesser grapplers. He expects Jandiroba to bank rounds with top control as Lemos fades, though he admits the fight likely goes to decision and could be a weird judging outcome. He suggests live betting Jandiroba after Lemos wins early rounds.

"I'm gonna chase the other side and go Verna."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Daniel Vreeland leans with Virna Jandiroba due to her world-class Jiu-Jitsu and unorthodox takedown entries, believing she can take down Amanda Lemos and possibly secure a submission early. He notes that Lemos has a significant power edge and could get a late knockout if Jandiroba gasses, but he trusts Jandiroba's early dominance. He also mentions that Lemos has shown vulnerability to submissions, referencing the standing arm triangle loss to Andrade.

"I'm GNA lean with Verna janida because I do think she's going to have that early um upside you know in terms of getting those takedowns in terms of those near submission attempts possibly getting a submission attempt and wearing …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Jandiroba is a -130 favorite. She has a smothering grappling style and excellent cardio, which should wear down Lemos in the later rounds. Lemos has power but questionable takedown defense and cardio. Jandiroba's chin has held up, and she can take Lemos down, take her back, and eventually find a submission in the third or fourth round. Lemos could finish early, but if she doesn't, Jandiroba will dominate.

submission
"I'm going to say jandi Roba by submission"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Paul thinks Lemos is the better striker and can hang on the mat against Jandiroba, citing her durability in going five rounds with Zhang Weili and surviving takedowns from Mackenzie Dern. He acknowledges Jandiroba's grappling edge but believes Lemos can avoid submissions and win rounds with damage. He calls it close to a pick 'em fight but leans Lemos at plus money.

"I'm kind of tempted by Amanda Lemos in this spot... close to a pick 'em fight but give me Amanda Lemos at plus 110."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

The MMA Guru picks Virna Jandiroba after initially considering Lemos. He recalls Lemos' grappling being exposed by Zhang Weili, who had 16 minutes of control time. He notes Jandiroba has never been finished and had close fights with Amanda Ribas and Marina Rodriguez. He trusts the favorite Jandiroba despite not wanting her to succeed.

"I'll go jander Roba I'll Trust in a favorite here I'll go jandera"
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria · Feb 17, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Amanda Lemos 1 41 of 80 51% 47 of 86 2 of 2 100% 0 0 4:02
Mackenzie Dern 0 21 of 54 38% 50 of 85 1 of 3 33% 0 2 6:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Amanda Lemos 0 11 of 23 47% 11 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mackenzie Dern 0 8 of 22 36% 19 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:45
2 Amanda Lemos 1 24 of 51 47% 27 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:09
Mackenzie Dern 0 8 of 24 33% 11 of 28 0 of 1 0% 0 1 0:30
3 Amanda Lemos 0 6 of 6 100% 9 of 9 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:53
Mackenzie Dern 0 5 of 8 62% 20 of 24 0 of 1 0% 0 1 2:45
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Amanda Lemos 41 of 80 51% 26 of 62 8 of 10 7 of 8 24 of 56 1 of 2 16 of 22
Mackenzie Dern 21 of 54 38% 21 of 51 0 of 2 0 of 1 13 of 42 0 of 1 8 of 11
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Amanda Lemos 11 of 23 47% 4 of 15 3 of 4 4 of 4 11 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 8 of 22 36% 8 of 20 0 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 18 0 of 0 4 of 4
2 Amanda Lemos 24 of 51 47% 17 of 42 4 of 5 3 of 4 12 of 32 1 of 2 11 of 17
Mackenzie Dern 8 of 24 33% 8 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 1 8 of 22 0 of 1 0 of 1
3 Amanda Lemos 6 of 6 100% 5 of 5 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 5 of 5
Mackenzie Dern 5 of 8 62% 5 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 6
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Angelo picks Amanda Lemos, citing her superior striking and takedown defense. He rants about Mackenzie Dern's poor wrestling and 14% takedown accuracy, despite her elite BJJ. He notes Lemos is coming off a bad loss but believes her takedown defense is more than enough to keep the fight standing. He calls the odds fantastic.

"Amanda lamos is going to be the pick I think the odds at minus 125 based on the rant I just went on are fantastic odds"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern as a dog but with very low confidence. He notes Dern's inconsistency, looking great against Angela Hill but terrible against Jessica Andrade. He thinks if Dern gets the fight to the ground, she can submit Lemos, who has been tapped before. He says he won't bet this fight and is staying far away, but as a pick he goes with Dern by submission.

Dern by submission
"I'm gonna take dur here as a dog as far as a pick goes I'll say she Subs lamos but I can't trust either of these Fighters"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody agrees with Paul, noting Dern's durability and BJJ threat. He mentions that Lemos could get a knockout, but Dern has shown she can take bombs. He believes Dern only needs one takedown to close the show. He picks Dern moneyline without chasing props.

"I like d as well but yeah I I don't even think I'm going to chase a prop on this one cuz um I see both pass to Victory..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)

Daniel Vreeland does not make a clear pick, calling it a coin flip. He notes Lemos's power and leg kick potential but is concerned about her tendency to flop to her back, as seen against Zhang. He acknowledges Dern's elite BJJ but questions her wrestling and striking. He stays away from betting on this fight.

"I'm staying away from this one."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Daniel picks Amanda Lemos hard, despite being a fan of Mackenzie Dern's grappling style. He thinks Dern won't be able to get the fight to the ground due to Lemos' strength, good boxing, and takedown defense. He also cites Dern's short notice and Lemos' reach advantage. He believes Lemos should be a -200 favorite and is all in on her.

"we're going Lemos hard uh and and this is coming from maybe one of the preeminent uh McKenzie dur fans... I think LMO should be a negative 200 favorite here or better like negative 130 just not high enough I'm …"
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Jeff picks Amanda Lemos, calling it a good number. He notes that Dern struggles with her wrestling and striking, and doesn't look great on the feet. He points out that Lemos just fought for the belt and has a reach advantage. He thinks Lemos should be a -200 favorite or better, so -130 is a good price.

"lamos is is the pick good number on this fight as well."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Lemos is a dangerous power puncher who can keep Dern at bay. Dern is inconsistent and unable to complete takedowns. Expects Lemos to find a knockout in the second round.

"I expect her power to come through once again for her as she keeps D at Bay and eventually finds that knockout in the second round"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul picks Dern, citing her superior Jiu-Jitsu and improved striking. He notes Lemos' low volume and 55% takedown defense, which could allow Dern to get the fight to the ground. He highlights Dern's durability and cardio, and believes she can outwork Lemos on the feet or submit her. He sees value at plus money.

"I got D yeah."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

The MMA Guru picks Amanda Lemos, calling her a dangerous power puncher and criticizing Mackenzie Dern's striking as nonexistent. He believes Lemos will have improved her grappling defense after being dominated by Zhang Weili. He predicts a brutal TKO stoppage in round one, stating Dern has never practiced striking for MMA.

"Amanda Lemos gets it done TKO... Dern has never practiced striking for MMA in her entire life."
LOSS vs Zhang Weili
Decision (unanimous) (50–43, 50–44, 49–45) R5 5:00 · UFC 292: Sterling vs. O'Malley · Aug 19, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Zhang Weili 1 163 of 217 75% 296 of 358 6 of 7 85% 0 0 16:07
Amanda Lemos 0 24 of 63 38% 29 of 68 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Zhang Weili 0 44 of 55 80% 74 of 90 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:33
Amanda Lemos 0 1 of 1 100% 2 of 2 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
2 Zhang Weili 0 16 of 20 80% 49 of 54 2 of 2 100% 0 0 3:47
Amanda Lemos 0 4 of 10 40% 5 of 11 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Zhang Weili 0 20 of 29 68% 31 of 40 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:58
Amanda Lemos 0 5 of 12 41% 8 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:19
4 Zhang Weili 0 28 of 45 62% 28 of 45 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:44
Amanda Lemos 0 13 of 37 35% 13 of 37 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:07
5 Zhang Weili 1 55 of 68 80% 114 of 129 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:05
Amanda Lemos 0 1 of 3 33% 1 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Zhang Weili 163 of 217 75% 106 of 150 37 of 42 20 of 25 50 of 77 17 of 18 96 of 122
Amanda Lemos 24 of 63 38% 19 of 57 3 of 4 2 of 2 23 of 61 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Zhang Weili 44 of 55 80% 36 of 47 6 of 6 2 of 2 3 of 3 0 of 0 41 of 52
Amanda Lemos 1 of 1 100% 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Zhang Weili 16 of 20 80% 10 of 13 6 of 6 0 of 1 5 of 8 4 of 4 7 of 8
Amanda Lemos 4 of 10 40% 4 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0 4 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Zhang Weili 20 of 29 68% 11 of 19 5 of 6 4 of 4 8 of 14 8 of 9 4 of 6
Amanda Lemos 5 of 12 41% 4 of 11 0 of 0 1 of 1 5 of 12 0 of 0 0 of 0
4 Zhang Weili 28 of 45 62% 7 of 17 9 of 12 12 of 16 26 of 43 2 of 2 0 of 0
Amanda Lemos 13 of 37 35% 11 of 34 2 of 3 0 of 0 12 of 35 1 of 2 0 of 0
5 Zhang Weili 55 of 68 80% 42 of 54 11 of 12 2 of 2 8 of 9 3 of 3 44 of 56
Amanda Lemos 1 of 3 33% 0 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1 1 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 13, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

Angelo is very confident in Zhang Weili, believing she is head and shoulders above the division. He notes her improved wrestling and jiu-jitsu, impressive volume and cardio, and power. While Amanda Lemos has knockout power and good takedown defense, he thinks Weili can win everywhere and will keep the belt. He has her in a parlay with Marlon Vera.

Parlay with Marlon Vera
"Wei Li Zhang is the pick one of the more confident picks and I have her in that parlay with Cheeto... I think she's going to get it done I think she's going to keep the belt."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 12, 2023 (7 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

Big Brady picks Zhang Weili to win by third-round knockout, acknowledging Lemos is dangerous early. He notes Lemos has power and can finish early, but her cardio fades after the first round. Zhang is improving and can wrestle, and Brady expects her to weather the early storm and take over in the later rounds.

win by KO, round 3
"I like Zhang Whaley here to win this fight I'll say third round knockout for Zhang Wei Lee"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

Cody views Zhang as a complete fighter with high-level striking, wrestling, and cardio, while Lemos has not faced top competition and struggled against Angela Hill. He expects Zhang to dominate and likely win by decision, though he acknowledges women's MMA can be unpredictable. He leans towards the fight going the distance.

over 3.5 rounds at +170; fight time over 15.5 minutes
"I think the champion Zang Yale goes out and does what she does best and that's just dominate I mean she's pretty much I always calls uh I don't always call but some Fighters are just generalists like they're generally …"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 17, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

Daniel Levi picks Zhang Weili, believing she is one of the best athletes in the UFC and has shown tremendous improvement, especially in grappling after training with Henry Cejudo. He notes that Lemos is dangerous early with heavy hands and a guillotine, but her cardio fades after round two due to weight cuts. Levi expects Zhang to take the fight to the ground and possibly finish via submission or ground and pound. He is confident but acknowledges that the early stand-up exchanges will be a sweat for backers at -330.

Zhang by submission or ground and pound; -330 price is high but Zhang should get it done
"I think Zhang Wally is going to get her to the ground and finish her via submission or grounding pound"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Aug 18, 2023 (1 day before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Lucrative James picks Amanda Lemos as a value underdog, believing she hits like a truck and has a good chance of knocking out Zhang Weili. He acknowledges Zhang has more ways to win and better cardio, but at plus 250 he sees it as an easy system play. He advises against being greedy and sticking to the moneyline.

moneyline at plus 250
"Amanda Lemos knocks out Wei Lee Jiang and she becomes the new strawweight champion"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

Zhang is well-rounded with power striking and strong wrestling. Lemos fades late and has been submitted before. Zhang will mix in takedowns and wear on Lemos, eventually finding a finish in the later rounds. The inside distance prop and under 3.5/4.5 rounds are good options.

Zhang wins inside distance, under 3.5 rounds, under 4.5 rounds
"I'm going to take Wiley Zhang I think she wins this fight inside the distance I'm going to be targeting that specific prop in the spot as well"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 14, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Zhang Weili

The MMA Guru picks Zhang Weili over Amanda Lemos. He notes Lemos' age (36) and past losses to Jessica Andrade and Angela Hill. He believes Zhang's athleticism, speed, power, and improved grappling will be too much. He cites Zhang's dominant grappling performances against Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Carla Esparza. He expects Zhang to win, possibly by submission or TKO.

"I'm going with Zhang Whaley over Amanda Lemos"
TKO (punches) R3 0:54 · UFC Fight Night: Rodriguez vs. Lemos · Nov 05, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Amanda Lemos 0 19 of 52 36% 44 of 78 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:15
Marina Rodriguez 0 29 of 53 54% 43 of 67 1 of 2 50% 1 0 3:06
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Amanda Lemos 0 9 of 29 31% 12 of 33 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:15
Marina Rodriguez 0 11 of 18 61% 11 of 18 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Amanda Lemos 0 4 of 15 26% 26 of 37 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Marina Rodriguez 0 8 of 16 50% 22 of 30 1 of 1 100% 1 0 3:06
3 Amanda Lemos 0 6 of 8 75% 6 of 8 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Marina Rodriguez 0 10 of 19 52% 10 of 19 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Amanda Lemos 19 of 52 36% 6 of 26 3 of 8 10 of 18 18 of 51 0 of 0 1 of 1
Marina Rodriguez 29 of 53 54% 16 of 36 10 of 13 3 of 4 25 of 48 3 of 4 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Amanda Lemos 9 of 29 31% 1 of 9 1 of 5 7 of 15 8 of 28 0 of 0 1 of 1
Marina Rodriguez 11 of 18 61% 4 of 9 4 of 6 3 of 3 10 of 17 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Amanda Lemos 4 of 15 26% 1 of 11 1 of 2 2 of 2 4 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
Marina Rodriguez 8 of 16 50% 4 of 10 4 of 5 0 of 1 5 of 12 2 of 3 1 of 1
3 Amanda Lemos 6 of 8 75% 4 of 6 1 of 1 1 of 1 6 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0
Marina Rodriguez 10 of 19 52% 8 of 17 2 of 2 0 of 0 10 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

Angelo picks Rodriguez, expecting her volume to be the difference. He notes she needs to avoid Lemos's power and stay technical, following the blueprint Angela Hill almost used. He acknowledges Lemos is dangerous with 7 stoppage wins and considers a no-action bet on Lemos by stoppage.

this may be a mandala most win inside the distance decision no choking decision no action bet if a Mandela most wins by submission or knockout I'll get paid if she loses a decision which is the most likely outcome I'll get a full refund
"I do have Marina winning I think it's sort of the volume that does it but she needs to avoid the power stay Technical and beat Amanda the same way that Angela hill almost did"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 1, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

Big Brady cites Lemos's cardio concerns in a five-round fight, noting she has never gone past three rounds. He believes Rodriguez has improved takedown defense and better cardio, and will take over as the fight progresses. He predicts Rodriguez will finish a tired Lemos in the third or fourth round by knockout.

Rodriguez wins by knockout in round 4
"I like Rodriguez here to win I'm gonna take her to win by fourth round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

Cody picks Marina Rodriguez, citing her recent run as a viable title challenger, experience in five-round fights, and superior striking volume and power. He notes her takedown defense and ability to survive on the ground, as seen against MacKenzie Dern. He is not sold on Amanda Lemos, pointing to her age, lack of a big win, and close split decision against Angela Hill. He predicts Rodriguez wins by decision, but is not running to the book to bet at the current line.

Marina Rodriguez by decision
"I will take Marina Rodriguez Marina Rodriguez by decision but you know I'm not I'm not running to the book you say and take my money"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

Daniel Levi leans Marina Rodriguez, citing her durability and ability to pull away in later rounds (third, fourth, fifth) as Lemos fades. He notes Rodriguez's slow starts and vulnerability to takedowns, as she struggles to get up from bottom, but believes her volume and cardio advantage will overcome Lemos's early power. He mentions the line (-210) is a bit wide and does not have a bet on this fight.

No bet; line considered wide
"I lean with Marina Rodriguez... I don't have a bet on this fight and I don't really have an interest in betting this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

The host believes Rodriguez's durability, cardio, and disciplined striking will overcome Lemos's early power. He notes Lemos fades after round one and telegraphs her shots, while Rodriguez has experience going five rounds. He predicts a late TKO (round 5) as Lemos fades, but also sees decision as likely.

Rodriguez round 5 TKO; round 4 or 5 decision
"give me Marina Rodriguez round five TKO I think glamos will be on fumes by that point"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

Paul agrees with Cody's points but struggles with the -220 price, which implies nearly 69% win probability. He thinks 7-3 Rodriguez is reasonable but not a betting opportunity. He does not like the decision prop because he questions Lemos's cardio in five rounds, noting she has been finished or finished early in previous five-round fights. He is considering the under on total rounds, possibly getting plus money, and will wait for weigh-ins to see if Lemos has a bad weight cut. He picks Rodriguez for the show but will not attack the -220 line.

under on total rounds (considering), Marina Rodriguez 120 significant strikes on PrizePicks (considering)
"Marina Rodriguez is the pick for the purposes of the show I'm not gonna be attacking the minus 220 though"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Marina Rodriguez

The MMA Guru picks Marina Rodriguez, noting Lemos's power has been absorbed by durable opponents like Michelle Waterson and Angela Hill. He believes Rodriguez's boxing, chin, and own power will surprise Lemos. He predicts a decision win (48-47 or 49-46) as Lemos may hesitate in a five-round fight, while Rodriguez's grappling defense is a concern but not an issue if it stays standing.

48-47 or 49-46 decision
"I'm going Marina Rodriguez here... I'll go 48 47 49 46 Marina Rodriguez but she loses the first round."
Mackenzie Dern - Fight History
Decision R5 5:00 · UFC 321 · Oct 25, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Virna Jandiroba 0 106 of 217 48% 208 of 331 9 of 17 52% 0 0 9:07
Mackenzie Dern 0 118 of 231 51% 249 of 372 2 of 8 25% 0 0 3:45
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Virna Jandiroba 0 27 of 45 60% 41 of 60 2 of 3 66% 0 0 1:57
Mackenzie Dern 0 20 of 36 55% 38 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
2 Virna Jandiroba 0 14 of 34 41% 45 of 72 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:24
Mackenzie Dern 0 19 of 44 43% 50 of 77 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:17
3 Virna Jandiroba 0 14 of 27 51% 38 of 53 2 of 6 33% 0 0 2:09
Mackenzie Dern 0 18 of 32 56% 52 of 68 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:14
4 Virna Jandiroba 0 28 of 58 48% 42 of 73 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:13
Mackenzie Dern 0 26 of 62 41% 38 of 74 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:30
5 Virna Jandiroba 0 23 of 53 43% 42 of 73 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:24
Mackenzie Dern 0 35 of 57 61% 71 of 95 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:15
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Virna Jandiroba 106 of 217 48% 72 of 177 20 of 25 14 of 15 83 of 192 20 of 21 3 of 4
Mackenzie Dern 118 of 231 51% 84 of 193 21 of 25 13 of 13 89 of 199 8 of 10 21 of 22
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Virna Jandiroba 27 of 45 60% 9 of 25 13 of 15 5 of 5 18 of 36 8 of 8 1 of 1
Mackenzie Dern 20 of 36 55% 12 of 27 4 of 5 4 of 4 16 of 30 2 of 3 2 of 3
2 Virna Jandiroba 14 of 34 41% 11 of 31 1 of 1 2 of 2 12 of 32 1 of 1 1 of 1
Mackenzie Dern 19 of 44 43% 16 of 40 3 of 4 0 of 0 13 of 38 2 of 2 4 of 4
3 Virna Jandiroba 14 of 27 51% 14 of 25 0 of 2 0 of 0 7 of 19 6 of 6 1 of 2
Mackenzie Dern 18 of 32 56% 13 of 26 4 of 5 1 of 1 12 of 26 2 of 2 4 of 4
4 Virna Jandiroba 28 of 58 48% 20 of 49 3 of 4 5 of 5 26 of 55 2 of 3 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 26 of 62 41% 17 of 52 4 of 5 5 of 5 25 of 60 1 of 2 0 of 0
5 Virna Jandiroba 23 of 53 43% 18 of 47 3 of 3 2 of 3 20 of 50 3 of 3 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 35 of 57 61% 26 of 48 6 of 6 3 of 3 23 of 45 1 of 1 11 of 11
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Oct 19, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Angelo picks Virna Jandiroba based on gut feeling, despite the line moving against her. He expects the fight to be entirely on the ground, where Virna's wrestling and safe jiu-jitsu will grind out a win. He notes Mackenzie's only path is submission, but Virna won't take risks like Amanda Ribas did. Angelo plans to bet Virna if the line rebounds.

The line sliding in the opposite direction will probably have me placing a bet on Verna by the end of this week. ... I'll probably have some action on Verna.
"I'm going to go with the gut here. ... Verna is going to be the pick. The line sliding in the opposite direction will probably have me placing a bet on Verna by the end of this week."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 22, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern, highlighting her massive improvements in striking and wrestling. He notes Dern's striking looked incredible against Angela Hill and that she now has power and aggression. He believes Dern's pressure and volume will overwhelm Virna Jandiroba on the feet, as Jandiroba lacks power and may be hesitant to grapple. Brady also cites the five-round distance favoring Dern's cardio and toughness, predicting a fourth-round TKO.

Dern by fourth round TKO; line flipped from plus money; Dern to become strawweight champion
"I got to go Dern here. I think the five rounds heavily favors Mackenzie Dern. Give me Dern here. I'm going to say Dern wins this fight by fourth round TKO."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 22, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody picks Mackenzie Dern, arguing that over five rounds, Dern's volume, speed, and willingness to engage will outpace Jandiroba's control-heavy style. He notes that Jandiroba's wrestling is elite but she lacks striking output, and Dern's submission defense and scrambling make her dangerous off her back. Cody believes Dern's path is a decision win, as she lands more and is faster.

"I think over five rounds, she's just going to be doing a lot more. She lands more. She's faster."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Oct 23, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

Connor picks Jandiroba, taking a chance on her improvements in confidence and physicality since the first fight. He believes her wrestling-focused BJJ, reminiscent of Damien Maia, can neutralize Dern's guard attacks if she commits to grappling. He admits it's a hopeful pick but thinks Jandiroba has the tools to win if she doesn't repeat her negative game plan.

"I'm going to take the silly chance pick on Verna Jan Girova, cause I really want her to win and I really do feel like she's put in the work to be a more confident fighter, but I, you know, …"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Oct 23, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Daniel Vreeland believes Mackenzie Dern's striking evolution and power give her the edge, especially as the fight progresses and Jandiroba slows down. He thinks the ground game will cancel out early, but Dern's improved hands and cardio will allow her to take over in later rounds. He also notes that the winner of the first fight often wins the rematch, especially with an age gap.

"I think in the early going, the ground game is going to kind of cancel itself out. But as the fight progresses and as Janji Doba starts to slow down, that's where I see McKenzie really letting her combinations go."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Oct 20, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Lucrative James picks Mackenzie Dern, citing her multiple paths to victory: she can win on the feet, by submission, or by outscrambling. He believes Dern has improved her boxing and wrestling, while Jandiroba's usual path of outgrappling opponents will be neutralized because Dern is dangerous from bottom and can sweep or submit her. He also notes Dern's better cardio and power, and predicts Jandiroba will get rocked at some point. He sees Dern as the underdog with value.

"I'm going to side with Mackenzie Durn here. ... I think she grits out a win here. TKO submission decision. I don't care. I'm picking McKenzie Durn money line."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 22, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

The host expects Dern to replicate her 2020 win by putting together better striking, scrambling well in grappling, and winning a clear decision to become the new strawweight champion.

decision
"I expect her to replicate that performance... and new strawweight champion McKenzie Durn."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 22, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul agrees with Cody, adding that Dern has a great chin and throws more volume. He notes that Jandiroba's path to victory relies on takedowns and control, but Dern is crafty off her back. Paul also mentions that Jandiroba has never fought five rounds in the UFC and is 37, suggesting that if she wins early rounds, she may fade, making Dern a strong live bet as well.

"Dern just kind of if it turns into a slobberknocker on the feet, one Dern's got a great chin."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 21, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Virna Jandiroba

The MMA Guru picks Virna Jandiroba by decision, expecting a split decision. He believes Jandiroba is more focused on her career than Dern, who has personal distractions. He notes that Jandiroba has been winning against top competition (Yan Xiaonan, Amanda Lemos) and has good takedowns and control. He references their first fight where Jandiroba had control time and takedowns. He expects a low-paced fight with Jandiroba dragging Dern around, winning clearly but with one judge giving Dern a round.

split decision; Jandiroba wins 49-46
"I'm going to go with Virna Jandiroba getting this one done. She'll win it clearly, but it'll be a split decision."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Oct 23, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Zane picks Dern, citing a sinking feeling that Jandiroba will repeat her first fight mistake of being too respectful of Dern's ground game. He notes Dern's confidence and power on the feet, and believes Jandiroba's negative game plan will lead to her being outworked. However, he acknowledges Jandiroba's improvements and calls it a hope-based pick.

"I'm going to pick Mackenzie Dern, cause I just have a sinking feeling that Verna is, this is going to be the rare opponent where she actually has respect for her ground game and it's going to trick herself into …"
WIN vs Amanda Ribas
Submission (armbar) R3 4:56 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Ribas 2 · Jan 11, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mackenzie Dern 0 27 of 46 58% 82 of 107 1 of 3 33% 1 2 4:34
Amanda Ribas 0 17 of 56 30% 99 of 151 2 of 2 100% 0 0 5:47
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mackenzie Dern 0 12 of 25 48% 34 of 47 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:36
Amanda Ribas 0 10 of 33 30% 27 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Mackenzie Dern 0 3 of 3 100% 24 of 25 0 of 1 0% 0 1 0:19
Amanda Ribas 0 3 of 6 50% 37 of 49 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:31
3 Mackenzie Dern 0 12 of 18 66% 24 of 35 0 of 1 0% 1 1 1:39
Amanda Ribas 0 4 of 17 23% 35 of 52 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:16
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mackenzie Dern 27 of 46 58% 13 of 27 3 of 8 11 of 11 18 of 34 1 of 3 8 of 9
Amanda Ribas 17 of 56 30% 10 of 44 1 of 4 6 of 8 14 of 51 0 of 0 3 of 5
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mackenzie Dern 12 of 25 48% 4 of 15 2 of 4 6 of 6 12 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
Amanda Ribas 10 of 33 30% 6 of 26 1 of 3 3 of 4 9 of 32 0 of 0 1 of 1
2 Mackenzie Dern 3 of 3 100% 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 2 2 of 2 0 of 0 1 of 1
Amanda Ribas 3 of 6 50% 2 of 5 0 of 0 1 of 1 1 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
3 Mackenzie Dern 12 of 18 66% 8 of 11 1 of 4 3 of 3 4 of 7 1 of 3 7 of 8
Amanda Ribas 4 of 17 23% 2 of 13 0 of 1 2 of 3 4 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 2
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 5, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Angelo picks Amanda Ribas, noting that she dominated the first fight and has improved her striking since. He believes Ribas is the better striker and wrestler, and that her takedown defense and cardio will be key. He thinks the five rounds favor Ribas, as Dern's danger decreases as the fight goes on. He mentions Jacob had a big bet on Ribas at plus money when she was an underdog.

Jacob had a massive bet on Amanda Ribas at plus money (now -200)
"Amanda heas wins this fight I think it's pretty straightforward and I think the five rounds only benefits Amanda"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Big Brady notes that Dern has improved her striking and takedown accuracy since their first fight, but still considers her wrestling and striking not great. He highlights Ribas's elite takedown defense (85%) and her own grappling ability, meaning she won't be afraid to grapple. He predicts Ribas will dictate where the fight takes place and win by decision, though not as dominant as the first fight.

"I got to go heos here um I don't think it's going to look as dominant as one-sided as their first fight"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Cody leans toward Ribas despite the -200 price, citing Dern's inability to chain wrestle and finish submissions over three years. He notes Dern's mental lapses in later rounds and Ribas's forward pressure and power. He suggests a live bet strategy, expecting Ribas to win rounds 3-5 as Dern fades.

live bet on Ribas after round 2
"I'm leaning towards heus but this minus 200 price tag in the first main event of the year I'm not digging it to be honest"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Connor picks Ribas because she has a fundamental technical advantage on the feet and a style that counters Dern's approach. He notes that Dern's striking defense is nonexistent and she cannot land the same strike twice due to poor technique. Ribas is comfortable trading and landing cleaner counters, as seen in their first fight. Dern's path to victory requires a simple aggressive game plan, but she lacks the technical ability to execute it consistently.

"I'm definitely taking Heebush in the rematch."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Daniel acknowledges Ribas is more technically sound but notes her chinny defect, having been knocked out by multiple opponents. He thinks Ribas will dominate but could get cracked, so he passes on betting. As a pure pick, he goes with Ribas via decision, citing her superior technique and the fact that she usually needs to be finished to lose. He also mentions Dern's improved hands but still favors Ribas.

pass on betting, dog-or-pass situation
"I'm going to go with heos as a pure pick I just think she's more technically sound than McKenzie D in probably every Department"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Lucrative James confidently picks Amanda Ribas, having placed a bet at -160. He believes Ribas is better in all facets of MMA, as shown in their first fight. He notes that five rounds favor Ribas's cardio and experience, though Dern's danger (power, submissions) offsets it slightly. He hasn't seen enough improvement from Dern to change the outcome. He also mentions that the line has moved to -200, giving him CLV.

Bet placed at -160, line now -200
"I played Amanda rebass at minus 160 about a week or two ago"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 10, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Ribas is still ahead of Dern and should stop Dern's poor wrestling. Ribas will be more effective and active with her striking, busting up Dern and winning on the scorecards in this rematch from 2019.

"I still believe heos is ahead of where dur is at heos should do a good enough job in terms of stopping the very poor uh wrestling style of D and then from there I think heos can stay more …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jan 8, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Paul agrees with Cody, noting Dern's improved focus but still rudimentary wrestling. He highlights Ribas's takedown defense and well-roundedness, and that Dern went 0 for 6 on takedowns in their first fight. He is not excited about -200 but sees Ribas as the rightful favorite.

"I think that uh Amanda heus keeps this standing she's more well-rounded she's been bouncing around from 125 to 115 so this being at 115 um you're going to have full strength full capabilities everything like that for heas I …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

The Guru struggles with this pick, initially leaning towards Dern but then recalling that Ribas won the first fight by stuffing takedowns and outstriking Dern. He notes Dern's poor striking and Ribas's suspect chin but ultimately goes with Ribas, predicting a TKO in round 3 or 4. He expresses frustration with the difficulty of the pick.

TKO in round 3 or 4
"ribass won the first fight sorry ribass I'm going with Amanda ribash she stuffed all the takedowns and she beat the [ __ ] out of her let's go Ribas easy"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Ribas

Zane agrees with Connor, initially seeing an avenue for Dern but concluding that Ribas is the correct pick. He notes that Dern's success comes against opponents terrified of her ground game or those she can outmuscle, but Ribas is not afraid to scrap and will fire back. Dern's lack of technical improvement and inability to finish fights in recent years are key factors. Zane also mentions that Ribas has not changed her style, which works against Dern.

"I'm with you on that. But can't not pick Heebush."
WIN vs Loopy Godinez
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov · Aug 03, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mackenzie Dern 0 72 of 203 35% 103 of 235 2 of 5 40% 0 0 2:45
Loopy Godinez 0 67 of 146 45% 72 of 152 2 of 3 66% 1 1 1:41
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mackenzie Dern 0 25 of 67 37% 49 of 92 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:49
Loopy Godinez 0 15 of 38 39% 17 of 41 1 of 1 100% 0 1 0:20
2 Mackenzie Dern 0 24 of 68 35% 27 of 71 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Loopy Godinez 0 24 of 55 43% 24 of 55 1 of 2 50% 1 0 0:45
3 Mackenzie Dern 0 23 of 68 33% 27 of 72 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:56
Loopy Godinez 0 28 of 53 52% 31 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:36
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mackenzie Dern 72 of 203 35% 61 of 188 5 of 6 6 of 9 66 of 195 6 of 8 0 of 0
Loopy Godinez 67 of 146 45% 45 of 116 16 of 23 6 of 7 58 of 136 9 of 10 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mackenzie Dern 25 of 67 37% 22 of 63 1 of 1 2 of 3 24 of 66 1 of 1 0 of 0
Loopy Godinez 15 of 38 39% 13 of 33 1 of 4 1 of 1 12 of 35 3 of 3 0 of 0
2 Mackenzie Dern 24 of 68 35% 20 of 62 2 of 3 2 of 3 23 of 66 1 of 2 0 of 0
Loopy Godinez 24 of 55 43% 18 of 47 3 of 4 3 of 4 23 of 54 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Mackenzie Dern 23 of 68 33% 19 of 63 2 of 2 2 of 3 19 of 63 4 of 5 0 of 0
Loopy Godinez 28 of 53 52% 14 of 36 12 of 15 2 of 2 23 of 47 5 of 6 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jul 28, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

Angelo picks Godinez but is hesitant due to her notoriously low fight IQ. He thinks she is the better fighter everywhere except BJJ, with better striking, wrestling, and athleticism. He notes Dern's poor takedown accuracy and reliance on toughness. He bet only a quarter unit because he doesn't trust Godinez.

Bet a quarter unit
"I gotta ride with loopy here though... I beted on her but only a quarter of a unit"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Aug 1, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

Big Brady is taking another underdog, citing Godinez's superior wrestling and boxing on the feet. He notes Dern has poor takedown accuracy (15%) and cannot take Godinez down, while Godinez should keep the fight standing and outpoint Dern. However, he admits he doesn't trust Godinez either, calling it a weird fight.

"give me loopy here in this one uh kind of how I see this fight playing out is you know lupy is going to be the much better wrestler by a mile"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

Cody picks Loopy Godinez, citing her superior boxing and wrestling. He notes that Dern has poor takedown accuracy and has been roughed up on the feet recently. Cody thinks Godinez can stuff takedowns and win a volume decision. However, he acknowledges Dern's ability to create scrambles and capitalize on mistakes, so he's not fully confident. He mentions that Godinez is a slight underdog and that women's MMA is volatile.

"I'll stick with the favorite here ly godas but it's going to be lower on the list this week."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 31, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Daniel picks Dern, citing her toughness and ability to overcome adversity. He criticizes Godinez's fight IQ and tendency to abandon game plans. He believes Dern will gas pedal Godinez and be the tougher fighter, despite potential striking exchanges.

"give me a McKenzie dur to get this done"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 1, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

Godinez should avoid the clinch and use footwork to out-strike Dern, stuffing takedowns. She should land better damage and win on the scorecards.

"I'm hoping that godz learned from her last match up against Jan Roba where she is not going to engage in the clinch whatsoever utilize her footwork to really touch up D and really stopped the takedowns the poor takedown …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jul 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

Paul picks Loopy Godinez, noting that she is the better striker and can avoid Dern's grappling. He thinks Godinez's volume and takedown defense should be enough to win a decision. Paul acknowledges Dern's scrambling ability but believes Godinez can stay away and win on the feet. He also mentions that Godinez went the distance with Virna Jandiroba, which looks good in hindsight.

"I'll side with lupy on the on volume and just don't engage stay away at all costs and you should be able to you know win a volume based decision here."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 30, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Loopy Godinez

The MMA Guru picks Loopy Godinez over Mackenzie Dern, citing Dern's lack of seriousness and Godinez's activity and better striking. He thinks Godinez can scramble and keep the fight on the feet, where she has a technical advantage. He notes Godinez has good takedown defense and works her way back up. He mentions she might be an underdog and likes that.

"I'll go with Lupita godinez I just don't think D takes her career as serious"
LOSS vs Amanda Lemos
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 298: Volkanovski vs. Topuria · Feb 17, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Amanda Lemos 1 41 of 80 51% 47 of 86 2 of 2 100% 0 0 4:02
Mackenzie Dern 0 21 of 54 38% 50 of 85 1 of 3 33% 0 2 6:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Amanda Lemos 0 11 of 23 47% 11 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Mackenzie Dern 0 8 of 22 36% 19 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:45
2 Amanda Lemos 1 24 of 51 47% 27 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:09
Mackenzie Dern 0 8 of 24 33% 11 of 28 0 of 1 0% 0 1 0:30
3 Amanda Lemos 0 6 of 6 100% 9 of 9 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:53
Mackenzie Dern 0 5 of 8 62% 20 of 24 0 of 1 0% 0 1 2:45
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Amanda Lemos 41 of 80 51% 26 of 62 8 of 10 7 of 8 24 of 56 1 of 2 16 of 22
Mackenzie Dern 21 of 54 38% 21 of 51 0 of 2 0 of 1 13 of 42 0 of 1 8 of 11
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Amanda Lemos 11 of 23 47% 4 of 15 3 of 4 4 of 4 11 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 8 of 22 36% 8 of 20 0 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 18 0 of 0 4 of 4
2 Amanda Lemos 24 of 51 47% 17 of 42 4 of 5 3 of 4 12 of 32 1 of 2 11 of 17
Mackenzie Dern 8 of 24 33% 8 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 1 8 of 22 0 of 1 0 of 1
3 Amanda Lemos 6 of 6 100% 5 of 5 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 5 of 5
Mackenzie Dern 5 of 8 62% 5 of 8 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 6
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Angelo picks Amanda Lemos, citing her superior striking and takedown defense. He rants about Mackenzie Dern's poor wrestling and 14% takedown accuracy, despite her elite BJJ. He notes Lemos is coming off a bad loss but believes her takedown defense is more than enough to keep the fight standing. He calls the odds fantastic.

"Amanda lamos is going to be the pick I think the odds at minus 125 based on the rant I just went on are fantastic odds"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern as a dog but with very low confidence. He notes Dern's inconsistency, looking great against Angela Hill but terrible against Jessica Andrade. He thinks if Dern gets the fight to the ground, she can submit Lemos, who has been tapped before. He says he won't bet this fight and is staying far away, but as a pick he goes with Dern by submission.

Dern by submission
"I'm gonna take dur here as a dog as far as a pick goes I'll say she Subs lamos but I can't trust either of these Fighters"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody agrees with Paul, noting Dern's durability and BJJ threat. He mentions that Lemos could get a knockout, but Dern has shown she can take bombs. He believes Dern only needs one takedown to close the show. He picks Dern moneyline without chasing props.

"I like d as well but yeah I I don't even think I'm going to chase a prop on this one cuz um I see both pass to Victory..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Daniel picks Amanda Lemos hard, despite being a fan of Mackenzie Dern's grappling style. He thinks Dern won't be able to get the fight to the ground due to Lemos' strength, good boxing, and takedown defense. He also cites Dern's short notice and Lemos' reach advantage. He believes Lemos should be a -200 favorite and is all in on her.

"we're going Lemos hard uh and and this is coming from maybe one of the preeminent uh McKenzie dur fans... I think LMO should be a negative 200 favorite here or better like negative 130 just not high enough I'm …"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)

Daniel Vreeland does not make a clear pick, calling it a coin flip. He notes Lemos's power and leg kick potential but is concerned about her tendency to flop to her back, as seen against Zhang. He acknowledges Dern's elite BJJ but questions her wrestling and striking. He stays away from betting on this fight.

"I'm staying away from this one."
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Jeff picks Amanda Lemos, calling it a good number. He notes that Dern struggles with her wrestling and striking, and doesn't look great on the feet. He points out that Lemos just fought for the belt and has a reach advantage. He thinks Lemos should be a -200 favorite or better, so -130 is a good price.

"lamos is is the pick good number on this fight as well."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Lemos is a dangerous power puncher who can keep Dern at bay. Dern is inconsistent and unable to complete takedowns. Expects Lemos to find a knockout in the second round.

"I expect her power to come through once again for her as she keeps D at Bay and eventually finds that knockout in the second round"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul picks Dern, citing her superior Jiu-Jitsu and improved striking. He notes Lemos' low volume and 55% takedown defense, which could allow Dern to get the fight to the ground. He highlights Dern's durability and cardio, and believes she can outwork Lemos on the feet or submit her. He sees value at plus money.

"I got D yeah."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

The MMA Guru picks Amanda Lemos, calling her a dangerous power puncher and criticizing Mackenzie Dern's striking as nonexistent. He believes Lemos will have improved her grappling defense after being dominated by Zhang Weili. He predicts a brutal TKO stoppage in round one, stating Dern has never practiced striking for MMA.

"Amanda Lemos gets it done TKO... Dern has never practiced striking for MMA in her entire life."
TKO (punches) R2 3:15 · UFC 295: Prochazka vs. Pereira · Nov 11, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jéssica Andrade 4 53 of 107 49% 53 of 107 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:13
Mackenzie Dern 0 49 of 114 42% 50 of 115 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jéssica Andrade 1 27 of 50 54% 27 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Mackenzie Dern 0 24 of 57 42% 25 of 58 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Jéssica Andrade 3 26 of 57 45% 26 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:09
Mackenzie Dern 0 25 of 57 43% 25 of 57 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jéssica Andrade 53 of 107 49% 27 of 76 7 of 9 19 of 22 43 of 90 6 of 12 4 of 5
Mackenzie Dern 49 of 114 42% 38 of 100 6 of 9 5 of 5 47 of 109 2 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jéssica Andrade 27 of 50 54% 10 of 29 5 of 7 12 of 14 18 of 37 5 of 8 4 of 5
Mackenzie Dern 24 of 57 42% 15 of 46 4 of 6 5 of 5 23 of 55 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Jéssica Andrade 26 of 57 45% 17 of 47 2 of 2 7 of 8 25 of 53 1 of 4 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 25 of 57 43% 23 of 54 2 of 3 0 of 0 24 of 54 1 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 5, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Angelo picks Dern, citing her improved striking and elite BJJ. He notes Andrade's takedown defense is poor and Dern can pull guard or climb for submissions. He already bet a full unit on Dern at -177 and is confident she gets it done.

bet 1 unit at -177
"I'm going to trust McKenzie dur here I think she gets it done I threw a full unit on her at Min - 177."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern to win by first-round submission. He believes Dern is improving her wrestling and striking, while Andrade is on a decline and doesn't seem to care anymore. He notes Andrade has been easily submitted recently by top grapplers, and Dern is the best grappler in the division. Brady thinks one takedown from Dern will end the fight quickly.

Dern by submission in the first round
"Give me Dern, I think she does care and I think her ground game's really good and I'll say she subs her in the first round."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody picks Dern, noting Andrade's recent decline and disinterest in fights. He highlights Dern's improvements in striking and wrestling under Henry Cejudo, and her durability. He believes Dern can win on the feet or on the ground, and that Andrade's best path (wrestling) is nullified by Dern's BJJ.

"I think D is the rightful fave minus 190 don't love it but um but yeah that's my pick"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Nov 7, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

James picks Mackenzie Dern to win, though he is annoyed at the -200 price. He thinks Andrade has stylistic advantages on the feet with more power, but Dern has durability, pace, and grappling to offset that. He believes Dern only needs one takedown to dominate and finish, and Andrade has been finished in her last three losses. He suggests playing Dern inside the distance rather than moneyline.

Inside the distance recommended; notes Andrade rarely loses by decision.
"I think that McKenzie Dern is going to win the fight."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 7, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Jéssica Andrade

Andrade's power will be the difference. Dern has never been hit by someone with Andrade's power and will struggle to close distance. Andrade will stuff takedowns and make Dern pay every time she crashes the pocket. Expects Andrade to land big strikes and potentially find a knockout victory in the first or second round. The line at +165 is a value due to recency bias from Dern's win over Hill.

knockout victory in round 1 or 2
"I'm actually going to be taking Andra for the upset in this spot"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul agrees, emphasizing Andrade's regression and Dern's upward trajectory. He notes Andrade has looked flat and disinterested, while Dern is coming into her prime with improved cardio and focus. He thinks Dern wins wherever the fight goes, and that Andrade's wrestling won't be enough.

"I actually agree... D is coming into her own and becoming a legitimate contender"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 6, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

The MMA Guru picks Mackenzie Dern, believing Andrade is on a losing streak and has lost confidence. He notes Dern's improved grappling and boxing, citing her dominant win over Angela Hill. He predicts Dern will submit Andrade in round two, as Andrade has been vulnerable on her back recently.

submission in round 2
"I'm going to go with McKenzie D getting a submission here over Jessica Andra in round two"
WIN vs Angela Hill
Decision (unanimous) (49–43, 49–44, 49–44) R5 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Hill · May 20, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mackenzie Dern 1 126 of 210 60% 247 of 340 3 of 9 33% 0 0 13:12
Angela Hill 0 66 of 108 61% 94 of 142 0 of 0 --- 0 0 7:11
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mackenzie Dern 1 23 of 42 54% 37 of 57 0 of 1 0% 0 0 3:08
Angela Hill 0 12 of 16 75% 15 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:02
2 Mackenzie Dern 0 22 of 49 44% 31 of 58 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
Angela Hill 0 27 of 40 67% 41 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 3:33
3 Mackenzie Dern 0 30 of 39 76% 70 of 82 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:23
Angela Hill 0 1 of 8 12% 3 of 10 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:04
4 Mackenzie Dern 0 24 of 50 48% 34 of 60 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:03
Angela Hill 0 23 of 38 60% 31 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:32
5 Mackenzie Dern 0 27 of 30 90% 75 of 83 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:38
Angela Hill 0 3 of 6 50% 4 of 8 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mackenzie Dern 126 of 210 60% 104 of 186 18 of 20 4 of 4 58 of 132 19 of 22 49 of 56
Angela Hill 66 of 108 61% 27 of 65 39 of 42 0 of 1 35 of 74 30 of 31 1 of 3
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mackenzie Dern 23 of 42 54% 19 of 37 4 of 5 0 of 0 12 of 30 5 of 6 6 of 6
Angela Hill 12 of 16 75% 5 of 9 7 of 7 0 of 0 8 of 12 3 of 3 1 of 1
2 Mackenzie Dern 22 of 49 44% 13 of 40 7 of 7 2 of 2 17 of 42 5 of 7 0 of 0
Angela Hill 27 of 40 67% 10 of 22 17 of 18 0 of 0 9 of 22 18 of 18 0 of 0
3 Mackenzie Dern 30 of 39 76% 29 of 38 1 of 1 0 of 0 6 of 11 0 of 0 24 of 28
Angela Hill 1 of 8 12% 1 of 6 0 of 1 0 of 1 1 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 2
4 Mackenzie Dern 24 of 50 48% 16 of 41 6 of 7 2 of 2 15 of 41 9 of 9 0 of 0
Angela Hill 23 of 38 60% 10 of 24 13 of 14 0 of 0 14 of 28 9 of 10 0 of 0
5 Mackenzie Dern 27 of 30 90% 27 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0 8 of 8 0 of 0 19 of 22
Angela Hill 3 of 6 50% 1 of 4 2 of 2 0 of 0 3 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Mackenzie Dern vs. Angela Hill
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Dern (-170), Hill (+145)

Round 1
A place among the top 10 looms for the victor of this headlining strawweight tilt, in a cliched but accurate grappler vs. striker affair. With the majority of her wins coming by submission, Dern (12-3, 7-3 UFC) wants to get her hand raised at all costs to keep any championship hopes alive for the foreseeable future. On the other side of the equation, fan-favorite “Overkill” Hill (15-12, 10-12 UFC) is one significant strike away from passing Joanna Jedrzejczyk for the most landed of any female fighter to enter the Octagon. Something’s gotta give in this final fight of the card, and it will play out after the final instructions are given by referee Jason Herzog. There is intensity but plenty of respect, as the women bump their fists together before preparing to engage. Dern loads up immediately with fierce fists, and Hill is surprised by the sudden power coming her direction. Dern punches her way into a clinch, and Hill pushes her back to the wall but does not want to be locked up here. Dern grinds her elbow on her foe’s face, and they jockey for position in the clinch. Hill drives a knee to the body, and Dern responds with one to break free. Dern swings with all her might and hurts Hill with wild hooks, and she looks to throw Hill to the ground when they get close. Dern lands on her back in the process, and she activates her offensive guard and looks for a submission. Hill escapes smoothly, but Dern follows her and busts her in the chops with a left hand. A shocked hill hits her seat, and Dern instantly gloms onto her and looks to take her back while Hill is still clearing the cobwebs. Hill turns to her back, and leans up against the fence to keep leverage and protect herself from further harm. Dern steps through to half guard, and she looks to pass to the side or mount. Hill kicks her off and uses upkicks to keep her honest, and she hooks her toes in the fence. Dern drops down for a kneebar or a toe hold. Hill fights it off, but Dern secure full mount with seconds to spare, Dern batters Hill with elbows and punches, and she sets up an armbar with 20 seconds on the clock. Hill defends with every bit of energy, and she grits it out wildly before the horn saves “Overkill.”

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Dern
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-8 Dern
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Dern

Round 2
Dern begins the second round confidently, and her big right hand immediately clips Hill. Hill welcomes the brawl, and Dern kicks her in the midsection and charges at her with flailing fists. Hill escapes one clinch, and Dern is following her relentlessly with heavy swings. Hill lets her overswing to take Dern’s back, and this slows Dern down and stops her from hitting her in the face repeatedly. Hill grinds from the side and back, getting in an occasional right hand and knee while forcing Dern to carry her weight. Hill grips her arm around Dern’s jaw and releases it at the right moment to knee her in the face, and Dern gets her back to the wall and knees in response. The two trade knees, and Herzog asks them to keep working. Hill lands knees to the body and an elbow on the break, and she backs off. Dern throws with bad intentions, and Hill’s head movement keeps her face from a long exchange. Dern sits down on a leg kick, and the two clinch up again. Hill grinds her opponent up against the cage, with knees to the midsection and short left hands getting in. Dern looks for a throw but is shut down, and they knee one another in the chest. Hill stays more active with knees, and she dings Dern with a right hand before they split up. Dern punches her way forward, and gets popped with an overhand right. Hill shucks off a takedown attempt, and she pushes Dern to the wall as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Hill
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Hill
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Hill

Round 3
The strawweight contenders meet in the middle of the age, and Dern leads off with a right hand and a high kick. When Dern attempts another kick, Hill knocks her off her feet, and “Overkill” willingly climbs into the guard. Dern throws her legs up high to set up a triangle choke, and Hill smartly stacks Dern up and shuts it down. Dern transitions to an armbar, and Hill backs off and stands up. Dern follows her, and she drives a knee on the chin that hurts Hill and puts her on baby deer legs. Dern attempts to throw a wobbled Hill down to the ground, and Hill winds up on top and fights her way up to her feet, possibly on autopilot after the hammering blow. Dern looks for another throw, and this time, she drags Hill to the floor and climbs into mount with three minutes to go. Hill turns to her stomach, and Dern allows her to do this so she can elbow and punch Hill in the side of the head. Hill looks to push her feet off the fence to protect herself, and she kicks off at the right time to roll to her knees. Dern muscles her back down again, and she unleashes fierce ground-and-pound as she traps Hill on her side. Hill shells up and posts off the wall, and Dern follows her and continues pummeling her with elbows and punches. Dern kiais every time she lands a strike, and these blows are not light and Hill is eating them or blocking them to little effect. Dern rides and batters Hill with left hands, screaming with every blow, and Hill scrambles but winds up in the armbar. With 30 seconds left, Dern softens Hill up with a few hammerfists and leans to her back to extend the arm. Dern cannot break the grip before time expires, and Hill has once more been saved by the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Dern
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-8 Dern
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Dern

Round 4
Between rounds, Hill’s left eye swells up significantly, and it is closing fast. Despite this, she is good to go in the championship rounds. Dern slams her fists into Hill’s face to start off again, and she stings Hill and forces a tie-up. Hill presses her tightly to the fence, slowing the offense for a time. Dern uses a few elbows to get some space and considers a head lock throw, but Hill breaks away courtesy of a few punches. Dern trades hands with her foe, and Hill is not taking the punches well. “Overkill” clinches her up to not getting tagged, and Dern breaks with a fierce elbow. Dern hammers the lead leg with a few kicks, and she initiates a clinch to take the fight down. Hill turns her around before this materializes, and another stalemate ensues with knees to the body coming from both women. Dern looks to hook the leg or drag her down, and she forces Hill to carry her body weight. Hill spins her around with a frenzied effort, and Dern backs her off with a stern elbow. Hill the strikes on the chin, and Hill looks for a takedown and gets thrown awkwardly to her back, while hanging onto Dern from behind. Dern turns her around, and Hill hangs on with an arm-triangle choke from her back. The horn sounds with Dern in no danger from the submission setup.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Dern
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Dern
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Dern

Round 5
The fighters have reached the final frame, and Hill’s eye is greatly swollen but not in danger of stopping the fight. She engages in a brief slugfest to start things off, and Dern catches her with a few punches and throws Hill to her back. Hill closes her guard, and Dern stacks her up and grinds an elbow on the chin to open it up. Hill reaches her legs up high and hopes to wrap them over a shoulder, and she gets her toes in the fence and even considers an armbar. Dern is wise to it and powers through it, and she moves to side control at the three-minute mark. Dern steps over to grab hold of Hill’s left arm, and she lets it go to hurt Hill with elbows. Hill turns to her side, smothered by the active Dern, and Dern traps her and elbows her repeatedly. Dern takes the back and looks for an armbar, but she flattens Hill out and punches her on both sides of the head. Dern gets both hooks in from behind, and she steps over to full mount and hammerfists Hill with no way out. Try as she might, Hill cannot get out, and Dern clobbers her with a long series of elbows. Hill holds on and moves enough to stave off referee intervention, and Dern beats on her right until the bitter end. Hill has reached the final horn, in what may be a moral victory after a fairly brutal drubbing. The victorious Dern earns her third stripe on her black belt from father, “Megaton” Dias. With her striking improving dramatically, Dern is an immediate top contender in the strawweight division. While the top echelon of the division is so jam-packed, Dern asks for a matchup against former champion Rose Namajunas. If that happens, we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Dern (49-44 Dern)
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Dern (49-44 Dern)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Dern (49-44 Dern)

The Official Result
Mackenzie Dern def. Angela Hill via Unanimous Decision (49-43, 49-44, 49-44)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 14, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Angelo picks Mackenzie Dern because the fight is now five rounds, which benefits Dern's dangerous grappling and cardio. He notes that Dern never quits and the extra time gives her more chances to catch Angela Hill. He expects a close fight but believes Dern's finishing ability is the difference. He plans to bet on Dern by inside the distance (decision no action) if the odds are better than -350.

Plan to bet on Mackenzie Dern inside the distance (decision no action) if odds better than -350
"I like MacKenzie during to win this fight because it's five rounds I do think it's gonna be close I don't think MacKenzie's gonna get a quick takedown and then submit Angela Hill"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 12, 2023 (8 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern to submit Angela Hill, possibly in any round. He notes Dern is younger, improving her striking and wrestling, and has a huge advantage on the ground. He believes Dern will eventually get a takedown and submit Hill, similar to how Randa Markos submitted Hill. He acknowledges Hill's takedown defense is good but thinks Dern's pressure and power will wear her down over five rounds.

submission
"the pick is Dern s are around it could be in any or any round but I'll just say Dern sub for this one I think she submits Angela Hill"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Angela Hill

Cody argues that Mackenzie Dern's takedown success is inconsistent, especially in five-round fights, and she lacks striking volume. He notes Dern's poor striking defense and low output, while Angela Hill has excellent volume, cardio, and submission defense. He sees Hill winning by outworking Dern on the feet over five rounds.

"I'm gonna pick Angela Hill and fit it in on the parlay at some point."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Connor picks Dern despite acknowledging Hill's advantages over five rounds. He argues that Dern's hyper-aggressive grappling and ability to create instant submission threats from awkward positions will give her chances early, and that Hill hasn't faced a grappler with that kind of venom. He admits that if Dern doesn't finish in the first round and a half, Hill likely wins, but he can't shake the image of Dern wrapping up a leg for a quick submission.

Dern opened at -170, currently -166; Hill opened at +150, currently +160. Connor notes the odds are essentially even.
"I'm gonna take Dern. But you have laid out a great argument for Hill in the five rounds and give me huge pause because yeah if it doesn't happen for Dern in the first round and a half, Hill wins."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Daniel Levi leans toward Mackenzie Dern but is not confident. He acknowledges Dern's elite BJJ and submission threat, but questions her takedown offense (11% accuracy, less than 1 takedown per 15 minutes) and striking defense. He notes Angela Hill has 77% takedown defense and hasn't been submitted since 2019, and that strikers like Yan Xiaonan and Marina Rodriguez survived Dern's ground game. He sees Hill as superior on the feet and thinks the blueprint to beat Dern exists. Ultimately, he picks Dern via submission but says it's a 'dog or pass' situation and there's no value at -175.

Dern via submission; no bet due to lack of value at -175
"I guess it's a dog or pass situation... I'll go with Dern to find something along the way or possibly Bank three of these rounds"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked May 16, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Angela Hill

James sees this as a 50-50 fight but favors Angela Hill due to the plus-160 line, which he believes offers value. He notes that Hill has above-average takedown defense and will likely keep the fight standing, where she can outpoint Dern. However, he acknowledges Dern's submission threat and the possibility of Dern winning via decision if she gets takedowns in three rounds. He is hesitant and not fully committed to betting Hill yet, considering hedging with Dern submission.

Angela Hill via decision considered as a potential play; may hedge with Dern submission; plus-160 line mentioned
"I'm actually gonna side with Angela Hill I'm gonna say Andrew Hill gets it on Via decision but like I said it's about 50 50 fight so it's very hard for me to give an outright prediction"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked May 15, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Angela Hill

The host leans toward Angela Hill but is the least confident on this fight. He thinks Hill's footwork, output, and takedown defense could allow her to batter Dern on the feet and win by decision. He notes Dern could also win quickly by submission if she gets takedowns. He suggests a round 4 or 5 decision prop but says he won't put money on either side.

round 4 or 5 decision prop
"I'm gonna lean with the striker here though I'm gonna go with the footwork the output and hopefully decent enough takedown defense here from Angela Hill"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Angela Hill

Paul agrees with Cody, noting that the betting lines suggest a striking affair. He points out that Dern's takedown line is low (1 takedown) and that Hill's takedown defense has been adequate against good grapplers. He sees value in Hill at +150 and expects her to win a striking decision.

"plus 150 here Angela Hill seems like a very very reasonable dog shot."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 16, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

The MMA Guru picks Mackenzie Dern, believing her grappling will be the difference in a five-round fight. He notes Dern is younger (30 vs 38) and still improving, while Angela Hill rarely finishes. He expects the fight to hit the ground at some point, citing Michelle Waterson's success in taking Hill down. He predicts Dern will win by submission in round three, as her BJJ is a major threat.

submission in round three
"I'm gonna side with MacKenzie Dunn in this matchup ... I've got Mackenzie done by Sub in round three"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked May 18, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Angela Hill

Zane picks Angela Hill because he believes Dern's only path to victory is early submission, and over five rounds Hill's superior striking and improved defensive grappling will allow her to survive early scares and take over. He notes that Hill has refined her striking to be more efficient and can maintain a winning pace, while Dern's chances drop off precipitously as the fight goes on. He also points out that Hill's clinch work could punish Dern for trying to tie up.

Dern opened at -170, currently -166; Hill opened at +150, currently +160. Zane notes the odds are essentially even and expects them to get tighter.
"I'm gonna pick Angela Hill. I think she could get herself into trouble with her clinching... but she's gonna eat a ton of jab, she's gonna get picked apart."
LOSS vs Yan Xiaonan
Decision (majority) (48–47, 48–47, 47–47) R5 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Yan · Oct 01, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Yan Xiaonan 0 61 of 151 40% 224 of 339 2 of 11 18% 2 2 9:19
Mackenzie Dern 0 113 of 195 57% 151 of 240 0 of 0 --- 0 0 4:11
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Yan Xiaonan 0 16 of 42 38% 19 of 45 0 of 4 0% 0 1 1:01
Mackenzie Dern 0 28 of 52 53% 38 of 62 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:16
2 Yan Xiaonan 0 9 of 15 60% 56 of 78 0 of 0 --- 2 1 2:44
Mackenzie Dern 0 8 of 9 88% 17 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:50
3 Yan Xiaonan 0 18 of 45 40% 22 of 49 1 of 4 25% 0 0 0:12
Mackenzie Dern 0 32 of 66 48% 32 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:24
4 Yan Xiaonan 0 14 of 38 36% 30 of 54 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:47
Mackenzie Dern 0 38 of 56 67% 49 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:28
5 Yan Xiaonan 0 4 of 11 36% 97 of 113 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:35
Mackenzie Dern 0 7 of 12 58% 15 of 27 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:13
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Yan Xiaonan 61 of 151 40% 45 of 132 10 of 13 6 of 6 52 of 136 3 of 7 6 of 8
Mackenzie Dern 113 of 195 57% 53 of 126 14 of 21 46 of 48 100 of 178 6 of 9 7 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Yan Xiaonan 16 of 42 38% 13 of 39 1 of 1 2 of 2 14 of 39 1 of 2 1 of 1
Mackenzie Dern 28 of 52 53% 12 of 34 2 of 3 14 of 15 25 of 49 2 of 2 1 of 1
2 Yan Xiaonan 9 of 15 60% 8 of 13 1 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 8 1 of 1 4 of 6
Mackenzie Dern 8 of 9 88% 4 of 4 1 of 2 3 of 3 5 of 6 0 of 0 3 of 3
3 Yan Xiaonan 18 of 45 40% 10 of 36 5 of 6 3 of 3 18 of 43 0 of 2 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 32 of 66 48% 12 of 41 3 of 7 17 of 18 31 of 64 1 of 2 0 of 0
4 Yan Xiaonan 14 of 38 36% 10 of 33 3 of 4 1 of 1 13 of 36 1 of 2 0 of 0
Mackenzie Dern 38 of 56 67% 18 of 36 8 of 8 12 of 12 34 of 49 2 of 4 2 of 3
5 Yan Xiaonan 4 of 11 36% 4 of 11 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 10 0 of 0 1 of 1
Mackenzie Dern 7 of 12 58% 7 of 11 0 of 1 0 of 0 5 of 10 1 of 1 1 of 1
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody also picks Dern by submission but expresses hesitations about her takedown accuracy (9%) and ability to get the fight to the ground consistently. He notes that Yan Xiaonan is tough and has good takedown defense, and that Dern's path to victory is entirely on the mat. He suggests live betting Yan if Dern fails to secure early takedowns, and mentions that Dern's submission win is the most logical outcome but not a lock.

Dern by submission; live betting Yan Xiaonan if Dern can't get takedowns
"I will take Dern by submission but again I got my hesitations"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul picks Mackenzie Dern by submission, noting her world-class jiu-jitsu and ability to get the fight to the ground via pulling guard or ugly clinch work. He acknowledges her one-dimensional striking and that Yan Xiaonan will likely win the standup, but believes Dern's durability and submission threat will prevail. He mentions the over/under on prize picks and the inside distance prop, but his official pick is Dern by submission.

Dern by submission; over 2.5 rounds minus 140; inside distance minus 111; submission minus 103
"Dern by submission that's my official pick"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 27, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

The MMA Guru believes Mackenzie Dern's elite BJJ will be the deciding factor over five rounds. He notes that Yan Xiaonan has lost two straight and was dominated by Carla Esparza, who used a similar grappling-heavy game plan. He thinks Dern will eventually get the fight to the ground and secure a submission, as Yan has not faced a grappler of Dern's level since a faded Claudia Gadelha. He acknowledges Yan could win rounds early but expects Dern's persistence to pay off.

submission finish
"I think over the 25 minutes Dern wears her down, gets her down and gets the submission."
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 273: Volkanovski vs. The Korean Zombie · Apr 09, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Mackenzie Dern 0 50 of 156 32% 58 of 164 0 of 5 0% 3 0 2:24
Tecia Pennington 0 76 of 124 61% 78 of 126 0 of 2 0% 0 0 2:54
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Mackenzie Dern 0 28 of 80 35% 28 of 80 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:06
Tecia Pennington 0 35 of 62 56% 37 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:43
2 Mackenzie Dern 0 2 of 13 15% 8 of 19 0 of 0 --- 3 0 2:07
Tecia Pennington 0 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:06
3 Mackenzie Dern 0 20 of 63 31% 22 of 65 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:11
Tecia Pennington 0 39 of 57 68% 39 of 57 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:05
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Mackenzie Dern 50 of 156 32% 42 of 147 6 of 7 2 of 2 46 of 152 3 of 3 1 of 1
Tecia Pennington 76 of 124 61% 19 of 61 25 of 30 32 of 33 75 of 122 0 of 0 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Mackenzie Dern 28 of 80 35% 24 of 76 2 of 2 2 of 2 26 of 78 2 of 2 0 of 0
Tecia Pennington 35 of 62 56% 6 of 31 15 of 17 14 of 14 35 of 62 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Mackenzie Dern 2 of 13 15% 2 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 12 0 of 0 1 of 1
Tecia Pennington 2 of 5 40% 1 of 3 0 of 1 1 of 1 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Mackenzie Dern 20 of 63 31% 16 of 58 4 of 5 0 of 0 19 of 62 1 of 1 0 of 0
Tecia Pennington 39 of 57 68% 12 of 27 10 of 12 17 of 18 38 of 55 0 of 0 1 of 2
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 30, 2022 (10 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

Angelo confidently picks Tecia Torres (Pennington). He criticizes Dern's poor takedown accuracy (10%) and overconfidence in striking. He believes Torres' volume, boxing, and cardio will keep the fight standing, and even if it goes to the ground, Torres can avoid submissions. He plans to bet on Torres.

Moneyline bet on Tecia Torres.
"i like tisha torres to win i'm going to put a bet on t-shirt tours i'm very confident in tisha's ability to just have a ton of volume keep it on her feet and even if it does go to …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Apr 4, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

Big Brady picks Tecia Torres to win by decision. He sees the fight as a coin flip: if Dern gets it to the mat, she submits Torres; if Torres stuffs takedowns, she outstrikes Dern. Torres has better striking and has been focusing on strength and conditioning. Dern has poor takedown accuracy (10%). Brady has zero confidence and won't bet it.

"i'll take torres um zero confidence in it i'm not gonna be betting it"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 6, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

Cody leans Torres but is not fully confident. He acknowledges Dern's submission threat but thinks Torres' speed and volume will be key. Cody notes Dern's takedown struggles and that Torres has been taken down before, but believes the big cage favors Torres. He considers Dern by submission at +250 as a possible path but thinks Torres wins by decision more often.

Dern by submission +250
"i think more often than not teacher taurus wins by decision which is at giraffe king sportsbook right now tours by decision plus 130"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Apr 8, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Levi acknowledges Tecia Torres's volume and striking advantage, but believes Dern's elite jiu-jitsu is a step above the competition. He thinks Dern will eventually get a hold of Torres and take the fight to the mat, possibly finishing by submission. He is not betting this fight because Torres could avoid takedowns and win a decision, but he picks Dern.

Dern by submission (plus 250, mentioned as a possible prop)
"i just think that mckenzie durn is a step above the competition in that weight class at in grappling"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 5, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

I think Torres is the better fighter with superior speed, combinations, and takedown defense. Dern has poor takedown accuracy (3 of 28 in UFC) and Torres will keep the fight standing. Torres will get in and out with strikes and win a decision. I also like Torres by TKO at +600 as a sprinkle.

Torres by TKO +600 (sprinkle)
"I am going to go with the Tisha Torres side here I think she's the better fighter I think she'll be quicker on the feet better with the combinations... I'll take her to win this fight via decision."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 6, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

Paul likes Torres at even money, citing her far better striking, speed, and experience. He notes Dern's takedowns are a mess and that Torres has only lost to the best in the division. Paul thinks Torres boxes Dern up, staying in and out, and that Dern's only path is a submission, which is unlikely. He expects Torres to win by decision, which is plus money.

Torres by decision +130
"i like torrez at those odds for sure far more experienced far better striker"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 4, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Tecia Pennington

The MMA Guru picks Tecia Torres (Tecia Pennington) as an underdog, citing her wrestling and speed. He expects her to stuff takedowns and piece up Dern on the feet, leading to a corner stoppage in the second round. He notes Dern's poor striking and only recently starting hard sparring.

underdog pick, corner stoppage prediction in round 2
"i'm gonna go if tcha torres over mackenzie dern... she's a evens odds against her... i gotta go underdog here with tisha torres"
Expert Picks (9)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 11, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Angelo picks Amanda Lemos, citing her superior striking and takedown defense. He rants about Mackenzie Dern's poor wrestling and 14% takedown accuracy, despite her elite BJJ. He notes Lemos is coming off a bad loss but believes her takedown defense is more than enough to keep the fight standing. He calls the odds fantastic.

"Amanda lamos is going to be the pick I think the odds at minus 125 based on the rant I just went on are fantastic odds"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Big Brady picks Mackenzie Dern as a dog but with very low confidence. He notes Dern's inconsistency, looking great against Angela Hill but terrible against Jessica Andrade. He thinks if Dern gets the fight to the ground, she can submit Lemos, who has been tapped before. He says he won't bet this fight and is staying far away, but as a pick he goes with Dern by submission.

Dern by submission
"I'm gonna take dur here as a dog as far as a pick goes I'll say she Subs lamos but I can't trust either of these Fighters"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Cody agrees with Paul, noting Dern's durability and BJJ threat. He mentions that Lemos could get a knockout, but Dern has shown she can take bombs. He believes Dern only needs one takedown to close the show. He picks Dern moneyline without chasing props.

"I like d as well but yeah I I don't even think I'm going to chase a prop on this one cuz um I see both pass to Victory..."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Daniel picks Amanda Lemos hard, despite being a fan of Mackenzie Dern's grappling style. He thinks Dern won't be able to get the fight to the ground due to Lemos' strength, good boxing, and takedown defense. He also cites Dern's short notice and Lemos' reach advantage. He believes Lemos should be a -200 favorite and is all in on her.

"we're going Lemos hard uh and and this is coming from maybe one of the preeminent uh McKenzie dur fans... I think LMO should be a negative 200 favorite here or better like negative 130 just not high enough I'm all in on on LMO."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
No clear pick

Daniel Vreeland does not make a clear pick, calling it a coin flip. He notes Lemos's power and leg kick potential but is concerned about her tendency to flop to her back, as seen against Zhang. He acknowledges Dern's elite BJJ but questions her wrestling and striking. He stays away from betting on this fight.

"I'm staying away from this one."
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Jeff picks Amanda Lemos, calling it a good number. He notes that Dern struggles with her wrestling and striking, and doesn't look great on the feet. He points out that Lemos just fought for the belt and has a reach advantage. He thinks Lemos should be a -200 favorite or better, so -130 is a good price.

"lamos is is the pick good number on this fight as well."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 15, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

Lemos is a dangerous power puncher who can keep Dern at bay. Dern is inconsistent and unable to complete takedowns. Expects Lemos to find a knockout in the second round.

"I expect her power to come through once again for her as she keeps D at Bay and eventually finds that knockout in the second round"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 14, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Mackenzie Dern

Paul picks Dern, citing her superior Jiu-Jitsu and improved striking. He notes Lemos' low volume and 55% takedown defense, which could allow Dern to get the fight to the ground. He highlights Dern's durability and cardio, and believes she can outwork Lemos on the feet or submit her. He sees value at plus money.

"I got D yeah."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 13, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Amanda Lemos

The MMA Guru picks Amanda Lemos, calling her a dangerous power puncher and criticizing Mackenzie Dern's striking as nonexistent. He believes Lemos will have improved her grappling defense after being dominated by Zhang Weili. He predicts a brutal TKO stoppage in round one, stating Dern has never practiced striking for MMA.

"Amanda Lemos gets it done TKO... Dern has never practiced striking for MMA in her entire life."