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MMA Match Preview: Luana Pinheiro (11-4) vs. Tecia Pennington (14-7)

ByFight Editor

The women’s strawweight division takes center stage at UFC Fight Night 256, as Luana Pinheiro (11-4) faces Tecia Pennington (14-7) in a pivotal matchup. Pennington is looking to build on her recent victory over Carla Esparza, while Pinheiro aims to snap a three-fight losing streak.

Fighter Profiles & Recent Form

Luana Pinheiro

  • Record: 11-4
  • Age: 31
  • Height: 5’4″
  • Reach: 63″
  • Fight Style: Judo-based grappling with submission skills
  • Recent Form: Pinheiro has struggled against ranked opponents, losing to Amanda Ribas, Angela Hill, and Gillian Robertson in her last three fights. Despite setbacks, she remains a dangerous grappler with a strong ground game.

Tecia Pennington

  • Record: 14-7
  • Age: 35
  • Height: 5’1″
  • Reach: 60″
  • Fight Style: High-volume striker with strong lateral movement
  • Recent Form: Pennington returned to action in May 2024 after a two-year layoff, losing a split decision to Tabatha Ricci before bouncing back with a dominant win over Esparza. She is eager to continue her climb up the rankings.

Fight Breakdown & Key Factors

Striking Battle

  • Pennington’s taekwondo and karate-based movement allows her to control distance and outmaneuver opponents.
  • Pinheiro has knockout power, but her striking is less refined compared to Pennington’s technical approach.
  • Pennington lands 4.75 significant strikes per minute, compared to Pinheiro’s 2.90.

Grappling & Ground Game

  • Pinheiro holds a black belt in judo and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, making her dangerous in clinch exchanges.
  • Pennington has solid takedown defense (65%), but she rarely initiates grappling exchanges.
  • If Pinheiro can secure takedowns, she has a strong chance of controlling the fight.

Cardio & Durability

  • Pennington’s constant movement and endurance give her an advantage in longer fights.
  • Pinheiro has struggled in later rounds, especially against high-pressure opponents.

Pennington’s striking volume and movement could be the deciding factors. If she keeps the fight standing, she has a strong chance of winning by decision. However, if Pinheiro can secure takedowns, she could find a submission finish.

FIGHT ODDS

Luana Pinheiro                 + 310

Tecia Pennington             – 395

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025

RevGear

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