Top-15 women’s flyweights collide on Saturday night, as Karine Silva faces Gabriella Fernandes at UFC Fight Night: Cortes Acosta vs. Walker inside the Meta APEX.
Silva (19–7 MMA, 5–3 UFC) has lost three of her last four fights, most recently dropping a unanimous decision to Jasmine Jasudavicius in April. Fernandes (11–4 MMA, 3–3 UFC) is coming off a first-round knockout loss to Casey O’Neill in March, which snapped a three-fight winning streak.
Silva enters as a -230 moneyline favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook. Fernandes is a +190 underdog, with the fight total set at O/U 2.5 rounds.
Karine Silva vs. Gabriella Fernandes Fight Preview
Karine Silva (#11)
- 19–7 MMA (5–3 UFC)
- 8–1 (T)KO
- 9–2 SUB
Karine Silva has had a turbulent last few years. After opening her UFC career with a wicked submission streak, “Killer” has fought to five straight decisions since April 2024, going 2–3 in that span. The 32-year-old Brazilian, known for her formidable jiu-jitsu, has struggled to impose her grappling in three of her last four fights — and didn’t look particularly impressive in her lone win during that stretch against Dione Barbosa, either. Silva will have the experience advantage over Gabriella Fernandes on Saturday night, but her recent track record suggests she’ll need to make some changes to get back in the win column.
Gabriella Fernandes (#15)
- 11–4 MMA (3–3 UFC)
- 3–1 (T)KO
- 3–0 SUB
Gabriella Fernandes aims to rebound from her first pro stoppage loss after getting caught with a perfect left hook from Casey O’Neill earlier this year. Even after getting finished, “Gabi” remains dangerous on the feet and will have the striking advantage over Karine Silva. The 33-year-old Brazilian may be able to keep the fight in her wheelhouse; despite having mediocre takedown defense, her respectable submission arsenal could deter her opponent from constantly hunting takedowns. That said, Fernandes’ overall limited finishing upside could invite more aggression from the durable Silva, who hasn’t been stopped since December 2017.
Karine Silva vs. Gabriella Fernandes Pick, Best Bet
Saturday’s flyweight clash will largely depend on who can employ their greatest strength. Can Karine Silva get things to the ground? Or can Gabriella Fernandes separate herself in a striking duel? Either way, both fighters’ limited stoppage ability in recent outings suggests that a finish is incredibly unlikely. No matter who gets their hand raised, they should get the job done on the scorecards.
