Luana Pinheiro vs Angela Hill Prediction UFC Picks 5/18
- Lm Tipster
- May 14, 2024, 6:32:06 AM
© Jason da Silva-USA TODAY Sports
UFC Fight Night: Barboza vs. Murphy - Luana Pinheiro vs. Angela Hill Preview and Prediction
On May 18, 2024, the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, NV, will be the venue for an exciting women's strawweight bout between Luana Pinheiro and Angela Hill at UFC Fight Night: Barboza vs. Murphy. This fight pits two dynamic fighters against each other, each looking to solidify their standing in the division. Here’s a closer look at both fighters and a prediction for the outcome.
Luana Pinheiro
- Height/Weight: 5' 2", 115 lbs
- Record: 11-2-0 (2 TKO, 5 SUB)
- Team: Nova Uniao
- Stance: Orthodox
- Reach: 62.5"
Strengths:
Luana Pinheiro is a skilled grappler with a background in judo, which she effectively translates into her MMA game. Training out of Nova Uniao, Pinheiro has developed a dangerous submission arsenal and a solid striking game. Her ability to transition smoothly between striking and grappling makes her a formidable opponent.
Recent Performance:
Pinheiro's recent fights have shown both her potential and areas for improvement. A notable win against Michelle Waterson-Gomez via split decision in April 2023 demonstrated her resilience and tactical acumen. However, a knockout loss to Amanda Ribas in November 2023 highlighted vulnerabilities in her striking defense that she will need to address moving forward.
Angela Hill
- Height/Weight: 5' 3", 115 lbs
- Record: 16-13-0 (5 TKO, 0 SUB)
- Team: Alliance MMA
- Nickname: Overkill
- Stance: Orthodox
Strengths:
Angela Hill is known for her striking prowess and relentless pace. With a background in kickboxing and Muay Thai, Hill utilizes a high-volume striking approach to overwhelm her opponents. Training out of Alliance MMA, Hill’s experience and technical striking make her a tough matchup for anyone in the division.
Recent Performance:
Hill has faced some of the best fighters in the division and remains a perennial contender. Despite a loss to Mackenzie Dern in May 2023, Hill bounced back with a unanimous decision victory over Denise Gomes in November 2023. Her wins against Emily Ducote and Loopy Godínez in 2022 showcased her ability to maintain a high pace and outwork her opponents over three rounds.
Prediction:
This fight promises to be a competitive clash of styles. Pinheiro's grappling and submission skills will be tested against Hill's striking and experience. While Pinheiro has the potential to take the fight to the ground and look for submissions, Hill's striking and ability to dictate the pace will be crucial factors.
Angela Hill's extensive experience in the octagon, combined with her striking accuracy and volume, gives her a strategic edge in this matchup. Hill's ability to avoid the takedown and keep the fight standing will be pivotal. Additionally, her cardio and pace over three rounds make her a difficult opponent to deal with, especially if the fight remains on the feet.
Hill’s defensive grappling has improved over her career, allowing her to fend off submission attempts and keep the fight in her comfort zone. Expect Hill to utilize her jab and footwork to maintain distance, land significant strikes, and outpace Pinheiro over the course of the fight.
In summary, Hill's striking volume, experience, and improved defensive grappling are likely to lead her to a decision victory. Look for Hill to control the fight with her stand-up game and avoid the ground exchanges where Pinheiro is most dangerous.
