MMA Match Preview: Miesha Tate (20-9) vs. Yana Santos (15-8)

The women’s bantamweight showdown between Miesha Tate and Yana Santos 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 marks Tate’s return to the Octagon after nearly 18 months away, while Santos looks to build momentum following her recent victory over Chelsea Chandler.

Fighter Profiles

Miesha Tate (20-9) – USA

Tate, a former UFC bantamweight champion, is making her return after securing a submission victory over Julia Avila in December 2023. Since coming out of retirement in 2021, she has gone 2-2, showing flashes of her former dominance but struggling against elite competition.

Key Strengths:

• Elite Wrestling & Grappling – Averages 2.02 takedowns per 15 minutes, with eight submission victories in her career.
• Fight IQ & Experience – A veteran of the sport, Tate has fought some of the best in the division, including Amanda Nunes, Holly Holm, and Raquel Pennington.
• Cardio & Toughness – Known for her resilience, Tate has gone the distance in multiple five-round fights.

Key Weaknesses:

• Striking Defense – Absorbs 3.42 significant strikes per minute, making her vulnerable to Santos’ kickboxing.
• Inactivity – Has fought only five times since 2016, raising concerns about her ability to compete at the highest level.

Yana Santos (15-8) – Russia

Santos snapped a three-fight losing streak with a dominant decision win over Chelsea Chandler, showcasing her striking and improved takedown defense. She has gone 5-5 in the UFC since 2018, facing top-tier opponents like Irene Aldana, Holly Holm, and Aspen Ladd.

Key Strengths:

• Kickboxing & Taekwondo – Lands 4.42 significant strikes per minute with a 58% accuracy rate, making her a dangerous striker.
• Reach Advantage – Holds a 68-inch reach, compared to Tate’s 65-inch reach, allowing her to control distance.
• Activity & Momentum – Has fought more frequently than Tate, keeping her sharp in competition.

Key Weaknesses:

• Takedown Defense – Has a 42% takedown defense, which could be exploited by Tate’s wrestling.
• Struggles Against Elite Grapplers – Has lost to strong wrestlers like Holly Holm and Karol Rosa, showing vulnerability on the ground.

Fight Breakdown & Prediction

This matchup presents a classic striker vs. grappler clash—Santos will look to keep the fight standing, while Tate will likely push forward and engage in wrestling exchanges.

Key Factors:

• Santos’ Striking Advantage – If she can maintain distance, she may control the fight with her kickboxing.
• Tate’s Wrestling & Submissions – If Tate can secure takedowns, she could neutralize Santos’ striking.
• Cardio & Durability – Both fighters have shown resilience, making endurance a key factor.

FIGHT ODDS

Miesha Tate                       – 140

Yana Santos                        + 120

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 2, 2025