MMA Match Preview: Carli Judice (4-2) vs. Nicolle Caliari (8-3)

A high-energy women’s flyweight bout kicks off the preliminary card of UFC 318: Holloway vs Poirier 3, as Louisiana’s own Carli “Crispy” Judice (4–2) takes on Brazilian striker Nicolle Caliari (8–3) at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. With both fighters looking to climb the rankings, expect a fast-paced battle between power and precision.

Fight Details

Event	Info
Date	Saturday, July 19, 2025
Location	Smoothie King Center, New Orleans
Time	Prelims ~6:00 PM ET
Broadcast	ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass
Weight Class	Flyweight (125 lbs)
Rounds	3

Fighter Breakdown

🇺🇸 Carli Judice

Age: 26

Height/Reach: 5’7″ / 68″

Stance: Southpaw

Team: Headkicks MMA

Record: 4–2 (4 KO)

Recent Form: TKO win over Yuneisy Duben; split decision loss to Gabriella Fernandes

Strengths: Aggressive striking, head kicks, clinch elbows

Weaknesses: Decision losses, grappling transitions

Judice is a fan-friendly brawler with a 100% finish rate in her wins—all by knockout. She’s known for explosive starts and creative striking, including spinning attacks and head kicks. Fighting in her home state, she’ll have crowd support and momentum on her side.

🇧🇷 Nicolle Caliari

Age: 28

Height/Reach: 5’3″ / 62″

Stance: Orthodox

Team: Thai Brasil

Record: 8–3 (5 KO)

Recent Form: Split decision loss to Ernesta Kareckaite

Strengths: Muay Thai base, leg kicks, durability

Weaknesses: Reach disadvantage, defensive grappling

Caliari brings a gritty, technical style with solid kickboxing fundamentals. She’s resilient and capable of going the distance, but she’ll need to overcome Judice’s reach and pressure to impose her rhythm.

Tale of the Tape

Attribute	Judice	Caliari
Height	5’7″	5’3″
Reach	68″	62″
Stance	Southpaw	Orthodox
KO Wins	4	5
UFC Finish Rate	100%	63%

Key Storylines

Home Advantage: Judice fights in Louisiana, where she’s undefeated in regional promotions

Reach & Power: Judice has a 6-inch reach advantage and a higher KO ratio

Striker’s Duel: Both fighters prefer stand-up battles—expect fireworks early

Ranking Implications: Judice is ranked #42 worldwide; Caliari sits at #57