MMA Fight Preview: Istela Nunes (6-5) vs. Loma Lookboonmee (9-3)
The upcoming strawweight bout between Istela Nunes and Loma Lookboonmee at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Murphy is set to deliver an exciting clash of styles. Scheduled for April 5, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, this preliminary card matchup will showcase two fighters looking to make a statement in the 115-pound division.
Tale of the Tape
| Fighter | Istela Nunes | Loma Lookboonmee |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 6-5-0 | 9-3-0 |
| Age | 32 | 29 |
| Height | 5’4″ (163 cm) | 5’1″ (155 cm) |
| Reach | 66″ (168 cm) | 61.5″ (156 cm) |
| Weight | 115 lbs (52.2 kg) | 115 lbs (52.2 kg) |
| Fighting Out Of | Curitiba, Brazil | Amphoe Muang Phuket, Thailand |
| Gym | American Top Team Brasil | Lookboonmee Muay Thai Gym |
Fighter Profiles & Strengths
Istela Nunes
Nunes is a Muay Thai specialist with a striking-heavy approach, utilizing her reach advantage and technical precision to control exchanges. She has struggled with consistency in her UFC tenure, but her ability to dictate the pace with kicks and counters makes her a dangerous opponent for anyone willing to engage in a stand-up battle.
Loma Lookboonmee
Lookboonmee, Thailand’s first UFC fighter, is a high-level Muay Thai practitioner with exceptional clinch work and striking accuracy. She has demonstrated strong takedown defense and an ability to overwhelm opponents with volume striking, making her a tough challenge for anyone who relies on distance striking.
Key Factors & Fight Breakdown
- Striking Battle: Both fighters excel in Muay Thai, but Lookboonmee’s clinch game could neutralize Nunes’ reach advantage.
- Grappling & Defense: Lookboonmee has shown better takedown defense, which could be crucial if Nunes attempts to mix in wrestling.
- Cardio & Durability: Lookboonmee’s high-volume style may wear down Nunes, especially in later rounds.
- Fight IQ & Adaptability: Nunes needs to keep the fight at range, while Lookboonmee will look to close the distance and control exchanges.
