UFC on ABC 8 – Daria Zhelezniakova vs Melissa Mullins

On June 20, 2025, the Baku Crystal Hall hosted a compelling women’s bantamweight bout at UFC on ABC 8, featuring Russian fighter Daria Zhelezniakova against England’s Melissa Mullins. This matchup was a rematch from their previous encounter in November 2022, where Mullins secured a TKO victory over Zhelezniakova.

Zhelezniakova, known as the “Iron Lady,” entered the fight with a professional record of 9 wins and 2 losses. She is recognized for her striking power and aggressive fighting style. Mullins, with a record of 7 wins and 1 loss, is noted for her speed and tactical approach in the octagon.

In their rematch, Zhelezniakova showcased significant improvements in her game. She maintained a high pace throughout the fight, effectively utilizing her striking to control the distance and land clean shots. Mullins attempted to counter with her own strikes but struggled to find her rhythm against Zhelezniakova’s relentless pressure.

The bout was closely contested, with both fighters having their moments. However, Zhelezniakova’s consistent output and control of the octagon earned her a unanimous decision victory from the judges. This win avenged her previous loss to Mullins and demonstrated her growth and adaptability as a fighter.

For Mullins, the defeat was a setback, but she displayed resilience and determination throughout the fight. She remains a promising talent in the bantamweight division and will likely learn from this experience to continue her development.

Overall, the Zhelezniakova vs. Mullins rematch added an exciting chapter to the women’s bantamweight division, highlighting the evolving skill sets and competitive nature of these fighters.