MMA Match Preview: Gillian Robertson (15-8) vs. Marina Rodriguez (17-5-2)
The strawweight showdown between Gillian Robertson and Marina Rodriguez is set to take place on May 3, 2025, at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, as part of UFC Iowa. This bout will be featured on the preliminary card, with the fighters expected to make their walk to the Octagon at approximately 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT.
Rodriguez enters the fight ranked No. 9 in the strawweight division, while Robertson is No. 12, making this a crucial matchup for both fighters looking to climb the rankings.
Fighter Profiles
Marina Rodriguez (17-5-2) – Brazil
Rodriguez is a Muay Thai specialist, known for her technical striking and volume output. She has notable wins over Amanda Ribas, Mackenzie Dern, and Yan Xiaonan, but has struggled recently, going 1-4 in her last five fights.
Key Strengths:
- High Striking Output – Lands 4.82 significant strikes per minute at a 47% accuracy rate.
- Takedown Defense – Boasts a 62% takedown defense, making her difficult to control on the ground.
- Experience Against Elite Competition – Has fought top-ranked opponents throughout her UFC career.
Key Weaknesses:
- Struggles Against Grapplers – Has lost to strong wrestlers like Virna Jandiroba and Jessica Andrade.
- Recent Form – Has lost four of her last five fights, including two by split decision.
Gillian Robertson (15-8) – Canada
Robertson is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, known for her elite submission skills and relentless grappling. She holds the record for most submission wins in UFC women’s history and is riding a three-fight winning streak.
Key Strengths:
- Elite Submission Game – Has finished nine of her 15 wins via submission, making her one of the most dangerous grapplers in the division.
- Ground Control – Has secured nine takedowns in her last three fights, controlling opponents for a combined 27 minutes.
- Momentum & Confidence – Has won five of her last six fights, showing significant improvement in her striking.
Key Weaknesses:
- Striking Defense – Absorbs 4.56 significant strikes per minute, making her vulnerable to Rodriguez’s volume.
- Limited Stand-Up Game – While improving, she is still outmatched by Rodriguez in striking exchanges.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
This matchup presents an intriguing stylistic clash—Rodriguez will look to use her reach and striking, while Robertson will likely push forward and engage in grappling exchanges.
Key Factors:
- Rodriguez’s Striking Advantage – If she can keep Robertson at a distance, she may control the fight with her Muay Thai skills.
- Robertson’s Grappling & Submissions – If she can secure takedowns, she could neutralize Rodriguez’s striking.
- Cardio & Pace – Robertson’s pressure and ground control could wear down Rodriguez over three rounds.
FIGHT ODDS
Gillian Robertson – 300
Marina Rodriguez + 240
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 2, 2025
