Dione Barbosa - The Witch

• Height/Weight: 5' 6", 126 lbs
• Record: 6-2-0 (0 TKO, 3 SUB)
• Team: Kings MMA
• Nickname: The Witch
• Stance: Orthodox

Strengths:

Dione Barbosa is a crafty grappler with a penchant for submissions. With three wins via submission, Barbosa is highly skilled on the ground, capable of securing various choke and joint lock submissions. Additionally, Barbosa possesses solid defensive skills and footwork, making it difficult for opponents to take her down.

Recent Performance:

Barbosa is coming off a first-round submission victory over Rainn Guerrero at Dana White's Contender Series. Prior to that, she showcased her durability and technique with a unanimous decision win over Jessica Middleton at LFA 152. With momentum on her side, Barbosa will be looking to continue her winning streak against Ernesta Kareckaite.

Ernesta Kareckaite - Heavy-Handed

• Height/Weight: 5' 9", 125 lbs
• Record: 5-0-1 (2 TKO, 0 SUB)
• Team: Fighters Land MMA
• Nickname: Heavy-Handed
• Stance: Orthodox

Strengths:

Ernesta Kareckaite is a powerful striker with a dangerous arsenal of punches. With two victories by TKO, Kareckaite possesses heavy hands and excellent striking combinations. Additionally, Kareckaite has solid defensive skills, allowing her to evade opponent's attacks and counter effectively.

Recent Performance:

Kareckaite is coming off a split decision victory over Carli Judice at Dana White's Contender Series. Prior to that, she showcased her resilience and striking ability with a split decision win over Laetitia Blot at HMMA 6. With an undefeated record, Kareckaite will be aiming to maintain her winning streak against Dione Barbosa.

Prediction:

Expect a closely contested battle when Dione Barbosa and Ernesta Kareckaite step into the Octagon at UFC 301. Both fighters possess unique skill sets that could neutralize each other's strengths. Barbosa's grappling prowess and Kareckaite's striking ability could result in a back-and-forth affair.

Considering the technical abilities and defensive skills of both fighters, coupled with their determination to secure a victory, the prediction for this bout is that it will go the distance.

Pick: Fight to go to distance (Yes) -175