Miranda Maverick vs. Dione Barbosa: UFC Vegas 94 Prelims Preview & Prediction4 months ago
Miranda Maverick faces short-notice opponent Dione Barbosa after original opponent Tracy Cortez pulled out and fought at UFC Denver.

Miranda Maverick’s Recent Performance

Miranda Maverick, with a record of 15-5-0, has showcased her skill set across a series of recent fights. Her most notable victories include a unanimous decision win against Andrea Lee at UFC 298 in February 2024, and an impressive armbar submission over Priscila Cachoeira in the third round at UFC 291 in July 2023. However, she faced a setback with a unanimous decision loss to Jasmine Jasudavicius at UFC 289 in June 2023. Maverick bounced back with a unanimous decision victory against Shanna Young at UFC Fight Night in November 2022 and secured another submission win via rear-naked choke against Sabina Mazo at UFC Fight Night in March 2022.

Dione Barbosa’s Recent Performance

Dione Barbosa, holding a record of 7-2-0, has also been active and successful in her recent outings. She earned a unanimous decision win over Ernesta Kareckaite at UFC 301 in May 2024, following an armbar submission victory against Rainn Guerrero at Contender Series 2023 in September 2023. Additionally, Barbosa secured back-to-back unanimous decision wins against Jessica Middleton at LFA 152 in February 2023 and Mariana Piccolo at LFA 148 in December 2022. Her last loss came against Jena Bishop via unanimous decision at LFA 118 in November 2021.

Fight Analysis

Miranda Maverick is known for her well-rounded skills, particularly her grappling and submission abilities. With multiple wins via submission and notable improvements in her striking, she poses a significant threat in the flyweight division. Despite her strengths, Maverick has faced challenges against high-level strikers and opponents with superior wrestling defense, as seen in her losses to Erin Blanchfield and Maycee Barber.

On the other hand, Dione Barbosa has demonstrated her grappling and submission prowess, particularly with her effective use of the armbar, as seen in her win against Rainn Guerrero. Barbosa’s solid decision game reflects her good cardio and ability to control fights. However, her losses to higher-level competition and less polished striking compared to Maverick could be potential weaknesses in this bout.

Prediction: This fight is likely to be a competitive clash of grappling and submission skills. Miranda Maverick’s experience in the UFC and her ability to adapt her game plan give her a slight edge over Barbosa. While Barbosa is dangerous on the ground, she may struggle to impose her will against the more seasoned Maverick.