After suffering her first professional loss to Zhang Weili at UFC 312, Tatiana Suarez should face Amanda Lemos in her next bout. Despite a strong start against Weili, where her grappling was effective early on, Suarez was ultimately outstruck and outpaced as the fight progressed. The loss highlighted areas for improvement in her striking defense and cardio management. Facing Amanda Lemos presents an interesting stylistic challenge. Lemos is known for her knockout power and striking accuracy, making her a dangerous opponent on the feet. Suarez's path to victory will likely involve utilizing her elite wrestling to neutralize Lemos's striking threat. This fight is pivotal for Suarez as she looks to rebound and maintain her position among the top contenders in the strawweight division.

Fight Preview: Tatiana Suarez vs. Amanda Lemos

Tatiana Suarez's wrestling-heavy approach will be tested against Amanda Lemos's powerful striking. Suarez’s grappling dominance has been her trademark, allowing her to control opponents on the ground and hunt for submissions. However, her loss to Weili revealed vulnerabilities in dealing with high-level strikers who can defend her takedowns.

Amanda Lemos, on the other hand, brings explosive knockout power and precise counter-striking. She is dangerous in exchanges, with a proven ability to capitalize on her opponents’ mistakes. For Suarez, the key to victory will be to close the distance quickly, avoid prolonged striking exchanges, and impose her grappling. Conversely, Lemos will aim to keep the fight standing and utilize her superior striking to inflict damage.

This matchup is a classic clash of styles—wrestler versus striker. If Suarez can impose her wrestling early and wear down Lemos, she could secure a decision victory or even a submission. However, if Lemos keeps the fight on the feet, her power and accuracy could lead to a decisive finish.

Last Five Fights of Tatiana Suarez

1. Loss vs. Zhang Weili – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 312 – February 9, 2025
2. Win vs. Jéssica Andrade – Submission (guillotine choke) – UFC on ESPN – August 5, 2023
3. Win vs. Montana De La Rosa – Submission (guillotine choke) – UFC Fight Night – February 25, 2023
4. Win vs. Nina Ansaroff – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 238 – June 8, 2019
5. Win vs. Carla Esparza – TKO (punches) – UFC 228 – September 8, 2018

Last Five Fights of Amanda Lemos

1. Loss vs. Virna Jandiroba – Submission (armbar) – UFC on ESPN – July 20, 2024
2. Win vs. Mackenzie Dern – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 298 – February 17, 2024
3. Loss vs. Zhang Weili – Decision (unanimous) – UFC 292 – August 19, 2023
4. Win vs. Marina Rodriguez – TKO (punches) – UFC Fight Night – November 5, 2022
5. Win vs. Michelle Waterson – Submission (guillotine choke) – UFC on ABC – July 16, 2022

Prediction:

This fight hinges on Suarez's ability to dictate the grappling exchanges. If she can impose her wrestling and maintain top control, she is likely to wear down Lemos and secure a decision victory. However, if Lemos can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, her superior striking and knockout power could be the deciding factor.

Official Prediction: Tatiana Suarez by Decision (Unanimous). Her relentless wrestling pressure and ground control should neutralize Lemos's striking threat, allowing her to grind out a victory in a competitive bout.