UFC on ESPN 72: Dolidze vs. Hernandez, set for August 9, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, features an intriguing women’s flyweight clash between Brazilian finisher Gabriella Fernandes and submission specialist Julija Stoliarenko. Both fighters are looking to solidify their place in the division with a statement win on the prelims.

Gabriella Fernandes

Gabriella Fernandes (10–3) is a well-rounded Brazilian fighter representing MMA Masters and Team Jorjao. Known for her balanced skill set, Fernandes has three wins by knockout, three by submission, and four by decision. She has shown the ability to finish fights both standing and on the ground, but also possesses the cardio to push through three rounds.

Since joining the UFC, Fernandes has fought a mix of prospects and veterans. After early setbacks against Jasmine Jasudavicius and Tereza Bleda, she has bounced back with two straight victories, a split decision win over Carli Judice and a slick rear-naked choke finish of Cong Wang. Her recent performances show improved patience, sharper striking, and a willingness to engage in grappling exchanges when advantageous.

Gabriella Fernandes – Last 5 Fights:

1. Win vs. Cong Wang – Technical Submission (RNC) – UFC FN, November 23, 2024
2. Win vs. Carli Judice – Decision (Split) – UFC on ESPN 58, June 15, 2024
3. Loss vs. Tereza Bleda – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC on ESPN 47, June 17, 2023
4. Loss vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC FN, February 25, 2023
5. Win vs. Karoline Martins Moreira – Submission (Guillotine Choke) – LFA 143, September 30, 2022

Fernandes will look to keep the fight standing where her speed and boxing can shine, but she is also capable of attacking submissions if Stoliarenko overcommits on the ground.

Julija Stoliarenko

Julija Stoliarenko (11–8–2) is one of the most feared submission artists in women’s MMA, with a staggering 10 of her 11 wins coming by armbar. The Lithuanian veteran has fought across multiple weight classes and promotions, including Invicta FC and the UFC. Her aggressive grappling style makes her a constant threat on the mat, but her striking remains basic, and she has suffered several TKO losses to powerful opponents.

Stoliarenko’s UFC career has been inconsistent, alternating between impressive first-round armbar wins (over Jessica-Rose Clark and Molly McCann) and decisive losses against more well-rounded fighters. Her last appearance was a third-round TKO defeat to Luana Carolina, where her inability to impose her ground game cost her.

Julija Stoliarenko – Last 5 Fights:

1. Loss vs. Luana Carolina – TKO (Punches) – UFC FN, February 3, 2024
2. Win vs. Molly McCann – Submission (Armbar) – UFC FN, July 22, 2023
3. Loss vs. Chelsea Chandler – TKO (Punches) – UFC FN, October 1, 2022
4. Win vs. Jessica-Rose Clark – Submission (Armbar) – UFC 276, July 2, 2022
5. Loss vs. Alexis Davis – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC FN, February 5, 2022

For Stoliarenko, the path to victory is clear, drag the fight to the ground early and hunt for the armbar. However, if she cannot close the distance, her striking deficiencies may be exposed.

This matchup is a classic striker vs. grappler scenario. Fernandes holds the advantage in striking, movement, and overall athleticism, while Stoliarenko is the more dangerous submission threat. The Brazilian’s takedown defense will be the key factor — if she can keep the fight on the feet, she should outstrike Stoliarenko over three rounds.

Stoliarenko is always dangerous early, especially if she can initiate a scramble, but her lack of striking depth and tendency to absorb damage make her vulnerable against a sharp striker like Fernandes.

Prediction

Expect Stoliarenko to push for takedowns immediately, but Fernandes’ footwork and jab should allow her to keep range and land clean shots. Over time, Stoliarenko’s entries may become more desperate, opening her up for counterstrikes.

Prediction:
Gabriella Fernandes def. Julija Stoliarenko via TKO (Punches) – Round 2

A decisive win for Fernandes could put her on the radar for a ranked opponent in her next fight, while Stoliarenko will need to reassess her approach if she wants to stay in the UFC flyweight mix.