Having lost originally scheduled opponent Tracy Cortez, who was shifted to last week’s UFC Denver main event opposite Rose Namajunas, Miranda Maverick instead faced Dione Barbosa at UFC Vegas 94 on Saturday.
Maverick, having recently launched High Stakes Honey, was looking for a sweet night at the Apex in the preliminary card fight.
Round 1 kicked off with Maverick working her usual feints and pressure, but Barbosa was game with her striking keeping her opponent at bay for the most part. Both fighters worked leg kicks through the round. Barbosa was more effective with her hands, but Maverick found opportunities for counters.
Maverick worked hands up top, but everything was followed with a calf kick. They clashed at one point and they ended up on the ground. After Barbosa threatened a leg lock, Maverick nullified it, and ended up on top. The round ended with Maverick on top.
Round 2 Maverick went back to her calf kick attack, but Barbosa was game as she continued to throw big shots at her. They clinched and Barbosa put Maverick on the fence who used under hooks and strength to push off the cage only to get thrown to the ground by Barbosa.
Maverick made her way to her feet quickly and they clinched on the fence where Barbosa landed a slick spinning elbow on her. Maverick shot a takedown shortly after, but Barbosa grabbed the guillotine. Maverick pushed her onto the fence, popped her head out, and took her down. Round ended with Maverick aggressively stacking Barbosa on the fence and landing shots to the body.
Round 3 Barbosa came out aggressive likely figuring she’ll need a finish and she took it to Maverick. Maverick scored a single leg takedown taking advantage of Barbosa’s pressure and ended up on top.
Barbosa attempted submissions off her back, but Maverick was able to defend them rather easily. Maverick stayed aggressive in top position all the way to the end of the round with Barbosa unable to find a submission to finish the fight.
Official Result: Miranda Maverick def. Dione Barbosa via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
