Five years ago, flyweight Alexa Grasso edged a narrow unanimous decision over Maycee Barber on her way to becoming the first Mexican-born women’s champion in UFC history. On Saturday night, their paths will cross once again in the co-main event of UFC Seattle, with a shot at the 125-pound title — currently held by Valentina Shevchenko — likely just one win away.
The former champion Grasso (16–5–1, 8–5–1 UFC) is coming off consecutive decision losses. She fell to Shevchenko in their championship trilogy bout at the Sphere in September 2024 before coming up short against current No. 1 contender Natalia Silva at UFC 315 in May. Meanwhile, Barber (15–2, 10–2 UFC) has rattled off seven straight wins since her first encounter with Grasso, punctuated by a unanimous decision over Karine Silva at UFC 323 in December.
Barber enters as a -185 moneyline favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook for the rematch, while Grasso sits as a +154 underdog. The total is set at 2.5 rounds.
Grasso vs. Barber Preview
Alexa Grasso
There are just two blemishes on Valentina Shevchenko’s record in the UFC women’s flyweight division — both at the hands of Alexa Grasso. The Mexican contender made history with a stunning submission victory over the long-reigning champ at UFC 285 in March 2023, then fought “Bullet” to a draw in their rematch at UFC Noche later that year.
The only problem? She hasn’t won a round since.
Grasso was shut out, 50–45, across the board in the trilogy with Shevchenko and later outclassed on the feet by Natalia Silva. At 32, her middling takedown defense (54%) has made her increasingly vulnerable against strong grapplers.
Maycee Barber
Maycee Barber has clearly leveled up since she last stepped into the cage with Grasso, entering the rematch on a seven-fight win streak. Following an 18-month health crisis, the Colorado native returned to the Octagon at UFC 323 in December and continued her torrid run with a unanimous decision win over Karine Silva.
An aggressive striker by trade, the 27-year-old Barber also mixes in opportunistic grappling, landing 1.58 takedowns per 15 minutes. All together, it’s a suffocating combination that can cause serious problems for anyone standing in her way. Here’s Exhibit A:
With a chance to put her past behind her, “The Future” will look to prove that her time has finally come.
Grasso vs. Barber Pick, Best Bet
A lot can change in five years. Grasso may have once reached the apex of the flyweight mountain, but her recent form suggests her time on top could be nearing its end. Meanwhile, Barber storms into Saturday night’s co-main event with the momentum of a freight train, driven by a meteoric rise and a hunger for revenge.
Their first encounter was razor-thin, with Barber actually landing more significant strikes — 40 out of 152, compared to 38 out of 81 for Grasso — and scoring three takedowns.
Just as Grasso did against her in 2021, expect Barber to secure a win that vaults her into the title conversation. With six of her last seven victories coming by decision, she’ll likely get it done on the judges’ scorecards.
