MMA Match Preview: Ivana Petrovic vs. Juliana Miller
The women’s flyweight bout between Ivana Petrovic and Juliana Miller is set to take place on May 3, 2025, at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, as part of UFC on ESPN 67. This fight will kick off the preliminary card, with the fighters expected to make their walk to the Octagon at approximately 7:05 p.m. ET / 4:05 p.m. PT.
Both fighters are looking to rebound from recent losses, making this a must-win matchup in the flyweight division.
Fighter Profiles
Ivana Petrovic (7-2) – Norway
Petrovic is a former ARES FC champion, known for her well-rounded skill set and grappling ability. She has gone 1-2 in the UFC, with her most recent fight ending in a split-decision loss to Jamey-Lyn Horth.
Key Strengths:
- Submission Threat – Holds three submission victories, making her dangerous on the ground.
- Reach Advantage – Has a 70.9-inch reach, allowing her to control distance.
- Clinch Control – Uses trips and takedowns effectively in close-range exchanges.
Key Weaknesses:
- Striking Defense – Absorbs 2.00 significant strikes per minute, making her vulnerable to Miller’s aggressive style.
- Recent Form – Has lost two of her last three fights, raising concerns about her UFC-level competition.
Juliana Miller (3-3) – USA
Miller won The Ultimate Fighter 30 in 2022, showcasing her grappling-heavy approach. However, she has struggled in the UFC, suffering back-to-back losses to Veronica Hardy and Luana Santos.
Key Strengths:
- High-Pressure Fighting – Pushes forward relentlessly, looking to dictate the pace.
- Submission Skills – Has two submission victories, making her dangerous in scrambles.
- Striking Volume – Lands 3.31 significant strikes per minute, keeping opponents on the defensive.
Key Weaknesses:
- Takedown Defense – Has struggled against opponents with strong clinch control.
- Striking Defense – Absorbs 4.56 significant strikes per minute, making her susceptible to Petrovic’s counters.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
This matchup presents an intriguing stylistic clash—Petrovic will look to use her reach and grappling, while Miller will likely push forward and engage in high-pressure exchanges.
Key Factors:
- Petrovic’s Reach Advantage – If she can keep Miller at a distance, she may control the fight with her jab.
- Miller’s Pressure & Cardio – If Miller can dictate the pace, she could overwhelm Petrovic.
- Ground Battle – Both fighters have strong grappling, making takedown exchanges crucial.
FIGHT ODDS
Ivana Petrovic – 230
Juliana Miller + 190
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 2, 2025
