Tonight’s UFC Vegas 82 action brings an engaging women’s strawweight bout between Luana Pinheiro and Amanda Ribas.
This event, held at the iconic Apex Centre in Las Vegas, features a fourteen-fight card, with Brendan Allen and Paul Craig in the main event, making it a historic night for Scottish MMA as Craig is the first from his country to headline a UFC event.
Luana Pinheiro enters the cage with an impressive professional record of (11-1 MMA). The Brazilian fighter has made a significant impact in the strawweight division with her explosive style and judo background. Pinheiro, known for her dynamic throws and aggressive ground game, has won most of her fights by submission or TKO. She made her UFC debut with a bang, securing a win against Randa Markos. Her most recent fight saw her continue her winning streak securing a win over Michelle Waterson-Gomez. She continues to showcase her evolving striking skills along with her dominant ground game.
Luana Pinheiro vs. Amanda Ribas
Her opponent, Amanda Ribas, brings a well-rounded skill set to the fight, holding a professional record of (11-4 MMA). Ribas, also from Brazil, has quickly become a fan favourite with her charismatic personality and versatile fighting style. She has shown proficiency in both striking and grappling, making her a formidable opponent in the strawweight division. Ribas looks to bounce back from her recent loss to Maycee Barber with a win over the streaking Luana Pinheiro.
Pinheiro came out of the gates fast and threw heavy shots at Ribas. Ribas ate them and weathered the storm as Pinheiro landed some low kicks. Pinheiro then threw some well placed right hands and left hooks and Ribas was opened up. A lack of head movement and staying on the centre line left Ribas exposed in the first.
In round 2 Ribas looked to pressure Pinheiro and was more active. Pinheiro moved well but took some combinations from Ribas. The Brazilian took advantage of the fact that Pinheiro slowed down and hit her opponent with kicks and some solid right hands. It was a much better round for Ribas as all of her kickboxing skills were on display.
In the final round Ribas picked up where she left off and attacked Pinheiro with combinations. After a brief scramble, Pinheiro ended up on top of Ribas in her guard. Ribas managed to get to her feet and landed a knee in the clinch. Ribas got busy again as she landed a big punch before a beautiful spinning hook kick and Pinheiro wilted under the pressure and damage. Pinheiro went down and Ribas finished off her opponent with ground strikes.
