UFC on ESPN 70: Fatima Kline vs Melissa Martinez

Fatima Kline entered UFC on ESPN 70 as the heavy favorite against Melissa Martinez, with both fighters bringing contrasting styles and high stakes to the cage on July 12, 2025, in Nashville. Kline, a taller southpaw known for her precise striking and sharp low kicks, aimed to control the fight from the outset, while Martinez, nicknamed “Super Mely,” sought a decisive finish to improve her UFC record.

The opening rounds saw Kline dictate the pace with crisp jabs, front kicks, and consistent low kicks, maintaining range and landing the cleaner shots, while Martinez tried to respond with body kicks and sporadic counters but never gained sustained momentum. The tactical battle continued into the second round with Kline mixing in knees and clinch work, gradually wearing down Martinez, who managed a few meaningful shots but remained behind on the judges’ scorecards.

The fight reached its climax early in the third round when Kline, reading Martinez’s movement perfectly, landed a devastating head kick that sent Martinez crashing to the canvas. Kline followed up with ground strikes, prompting the referee to stop the fight at 2:36 of Round 3, awarding Kline a TKO victory. Celebrating her 25th birthday with this win, Kline improved her record to 8–1 and solidified her rising status in the strawweight division, while Martinez fell to 7–2 overall and 1–2 in the UFC.

This emphatic finish not only highlighted Kline’s striking prowess and fight IQ but also positioned her as a serious contender ready to take on bigger challenges in the division.