On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the UFC Fight Night card in Des Moines, Iowa, features a strawweight bout between Marina Rodriguez and Gillian Robertson. This matchup brings together two fighters with very different results in their recent fights. Here, we break down Marina Rodriguez vs Gillian Robertson and make our prediction for this fight between two experienced fighters.
Marina Rodriguez vs Gillian Robertson Preview
Marina Rodriguez enters the fight with a professional record of 17-5-2. Known for her striking prowess, Rodriguez has faced some of the top contenders in the division. However, her recent form has been inconsistent, with losses in four of her last five bouts. At 38 years old, Rodriguez brings experience and a reach advantage of 65 inches, which she will aim to utilize to keep the fight standing and at her preferred distance.
Gillian Robertson, holding a 15-8-0 record, is recognized for her exceptional grappling skills. At 29 years old, she has been on an upward trajectory, securing victories in her last three fights. Robertson’s recent wins include a unanimous decision over Luana Pinheiro, a technical knockout against Polyana Viana, and a unanimous decision win over Michelle Waterson-Gomez. Her ability to control opponents on the ground and secure submissions makes her a formidable challenge for any striker.
Betting Insights
As the fight approaches, Sportzino has made Robertson a heavy favorite at -325, while Rodriguez is the underdog at +250. This matchup is expected to go the distance, with the over 2.5 rounds market coming in at -250. Bettors should consider the following factors:
- Robertson’s Submission Threat: With 9 of her 15 wins coming via submission, Robertson’s ability to finish fights on the ground is a significant factor.
- Rodriguez’s Striking Advantage: Rodriguez’s striking accuracy and reach could pose problems for Robertson if she can keep the fight standing.
- Age and Momentum: At 38, Rodriguez faces a younger and currently more successful opponent in Robertson, who is riding a three-fight win streak.
Marina Rodriguez vs Gillian Robertson Prediction
Robertson By Decision (+106)
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Robertson’s last two wins have both come by decision.
- Rodriguez has seen her last two fights go to the judges, losing back-to-back decisions.
In this fight, Marina Rodriguez will aim to leverage her striking skills and reach advantage to keep the fight at a distance, avoiding takedowns and ground exchanges. Her success hinges on maintaining control of the fight’s tempo and location, utilizing footwork and striking combinations to outpoint Robertson.
Conversely, Gillian Robertson’s strategy will focus on closing the distance, securing takedowns, and implementing her superior ground game. Her recent performances demonstrate an ability to control opponents on the mat and capitalize on submission opportunities. If Robertson can bring the fight to the ground, her chances of securing a victory increase significantly.
Considering the fighters’ recent forms, styles, and physical attributes, my prediction leans towards Gillian Robertson securing a victory. Her grappling proficiency and momentum suggest she can overcome Rodriguez’s striking by dictating the fight’s location and pace. Therefore, the forecast is a win for Robertson, potentially by submission or a dominant decision, as she continues her ascent in the strawweight rankings.
