On Saturday, May 3, 2025, at UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs Figueiredo in Des Moines, Iowa, a women’s flyweight bout is set to unfold between Juliana “Killer” Miller and Ivana Petrovic. Both fighters are eager to rebound from recent setbacks and assert their standing in the division. For bettors, this matchup offers the first chance to bet on UFC action this Saturday night.
Juliana Miller vs Ivana Petrovic Preview
Juliana Miller (4-3) emerged into prominence by winning “The Ultimate Fighter 30” in 2022, showcasing a grappling-centric approach. However, her UFC tenure has been challenging, with consecutive losses to Veronica Hardy and Luana Santos. Notably, her bout against Santos ended in a first-round TKO, highlighting vulnerabilities in her striking defense. Miller’s grappling remains her strength, but her vulnerable takedown defense and susceptibility to strikes are concerns.
Ivana Petrovic (7-2), a former ARES FC champion, has experienced a mixed UFC start. After a debut loss to Luana Carolina, she secured a submission victory over Liang Na but fell short in a split decision against Jamey-Lyn Horth. Petrovic’s well-rounded skill set, including a 70.9-inch reach advantage, positions her as a formidable opponent. Her ability to control the clinch and execute trips makes her a threat, especially against opponents with defensive gaps.
Betting Insights
Going into this fight, the betting odds from Sportzino are as follows:
- Juliana Miller: +190
- Ivana Petrovic: -240
Given their recent performances, Petrovic enters as the favorite. Bettors should consider the following factors:
- Striking Defense: Miller’s recent losses via strikes raise concerns about her ability to withstand Petrovic’s stand-up game.
- Grappling Exchanges: While both fighters have grappling credentials, Petrovic’s control in clinch situations may neutralize Miller’s submission attempts.
- Reach Advantage: Petrovic’s longer reach could allow her to dictate the pace and distance of the fight.
Juliana Miller vs Ivana Petrovic Prediction
Petrovic By Decision (+105)
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Petrovic should be able to neutralize the grappling of Miller to gain the advantage in this fight.
- Miller has lost two straight fights and we expect her to drop another one here.
Analyzing their skill sets and recent performances, Petrovic appears to have the upper hand. Miller’s path to victory likely involves securing takedowns and seeking submissions. However, Petrovic’s clinch control and defensive awareness may thwart these attempts. On the feet, Petrovic’s reach and striking could exploit Miller’s defensive lapses.
Prediction: Ivana Petrovic to win via decision.
For bettors, considering Petrovic’s methodical approach and Miller’s durability, a decision victory for Petrovic offers a balanced risk-reward scenario.
