Dione Barbosa Record, Stats, Next Fight & UFC Breakdown
Dione Barbosa record, stats, and upcoming bouts have become hot topics among UFC fans eager to follow this rising flyweight contender. As a Brazilian grappler known for her relentless submissions and judo roots, The Witch continues to make waves in the women’s 125-pound division. In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into her professional journey, current Dione Barbosa UFC record, key performance metrics, and what to expect in her Dione Barbosa next fight. Whether you’re tracking her path from regional promotions to the Octagon or analyzing her grappling dominance, you’ll find everything you need right here.
Moreover, with her next appearance just around the corner, this breakdown highlights why Dione Barbosa remains one of the most intriguing submission specialists in the flyweight ranks. Let’s break it all down step by step.
Who Is Dione Barbosa? Age, Height, Background, and Path to UFC Glory
Dione Barbosa, full name Dione Barbosa Murphy, stands out as a formidable force in the UFC women’s flyweight division. Born on May 8, 1992, in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, she is currently 33 years old. At 5’6″ tall with a 66.5″ reach, her physical attributes complement a grappling-heavy style honed over decades.
Her martial arts journey began early. Barbosa holds black belts in both judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. In fact, her judo résumé is impressive: she is a seven-time Brazilian National Champion, two-time Pan-American Champion, and has earned medals in prestigious events like the Grand Slam Rio de Janeiro and Panamerican Open. This elite grappling foundation transitioned seamlessly into MMA when she turned pro in 2018.
Furthermore, Barbosa relocated to the United States in 2021 to train with top coaches, including time with Cris Cyborg before settling at Kings MMA in Las Vegas. Fighting out of Las Vegas, NV, she brings a unique blend of Brazilian flair and American professionalism to the cage. Her nickname, The Witch, reflects her mysterious, spellbinding ability to lock in submissions that leave opponents tapping out quickly.
In addition to her combat prowess, Barbosa’s personal story inspires many. Moving from Brazil to chase UFC dreams required sacrifice, but her dedication paid off with a contract earned via Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023. Today, she represents not only her home country but also the next generation of technical flyweights.
Dione Barbosa Record: Complete Professional MMA Stats and Win Breakdown
The Dione Barbosa record currently stands at an impressive 8-4-0 (wins-losses-draws) in professional MMA. This includes a solid 2-2 mark inside the UFC Octagon. Her victories showcase a balanced skill set: four wins by submission (50% of wins), four by decision, and zero by knockout or TKO—highlighting her preference for control on the ground.
Here’s a quick list of her pro MMA statistics:
- KO/TKO: 0 wins, 1 loss (25% of losses)
- Submission: 4 wins, 0 losses (50% of wins)
- Decision: 4 wins, 3 losses (50% of wins; 75% of losses)
Notably, four of her wins came in the first round, demonstrating explosive finishing power once the fight hits the mat. Her current streak is one loss following a unanimous decision defeat to Karine Silva in August 2025. However, prior to that, she had bounced back strongly with a first-round arm-triangle choke victory.
Dione Barbosa UFC record specifically shows her adapting well to elite competition. She made her promotional debut in May 2024 with a unanimous decision win over Ernesta Kareckaite. Since then, she’s split decisions and secured one highlight-reel submission, proving she belongs among the top 16 ranked flyweights.
Dione Barbosa UFC Career: From Contender Series to Octagon Contender
Transitioning to the UFC marked a pivotal chapter for Dione Barbosa. Her path began with regional success in promotions like LFA, where she compiled a strong record before earning her shot on Dana White’s Contender Series. There, she submitted Rainn Guerrero via armbar in the first round, showcasing the judo throws and BJJ transitions that define her game.
Once inside the UFC, Barbosa faced stiffer tests. Her debut against Ernesta Kareckaite at UFC 301 in May 2024 went the distance, but she controlled the action with takedowns and ground pressure to earn the nod. Just months later, a loss to Miranda Maverick in July 2024 exposed some striking vulnerabilities, yet she rebounded in April 2025 with a dominant first-round submission of Diana Belbita via arm-triangle choke at UFC Fight Night.
However, her most recent outing—a unanimous decision loss to Karine Silva at UFC 319 on August 16, 2025—highlighted areas for growth. Silva’s speed and volume proved challenging, but Barbosa still landed effective takedowns and maintained competitive grappling exchanges. Overall, her UFC tenure underscores resilience: she’s 2-2 but has never been finished inside the promotion, a testament to her durability and defensive grappling.
In the broader context of the women’s flyweight division, Dione Barbosa brings a grappler’s edge in a striking-heavy landscape. Fighters like her often force opponents into uncomfortable positions, turning bouts into chess matches on the mat.
Dione Barbosa Next Fight: Full Preview vs. Melissa Gatto on April 4, 2026
Fans are buzzing about the Dione Barbosa next fight scheduled for April 4, 2026, at UFC Fight Night (also known as UFC Vegas 115) against fellow Brazilian Melissa Gatto. This matchup pits two submission-oriented flyweights against each other in what many predict will be a technical grappling battle at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas.
Gatto enters with a 9-2-2 record and returns after nearly two years away. Barbosa, as the slight favorite (around -145), will look to leverage her recent Octagon experience and home-cage advantage in Las Vegas. Key factors to watch:
- Grappling exchanges: Both women excel on the ground, but Barbosa’s judo base gives her superior takedown entries.
- First-round finishes: Four of Barbosa’s eight wins ended early—could she repeat that magic?
- Striking adjustments: After recent decisions, expect Barbosa to mix in more stand-up to set up her shots.
Moreover, this bout carries regional pride as a Brazil vs. Brazil clash. A win could propel Dione Barbosa back into the top-15 conversation and set up bigger opportunities against ranked contenders. Predictions favor Barbosa by decision or late submission, but Gatto’s layoff adds unpredictability. Don’t miss this one—it’s a classic flyweight grinder!
In-Depth Breakdown of Dione Barbosa’s Key Fights and Career Highlights
To fully appreciate the Dione Barbosa record, examining her past bouts reveals patterns and growth. Here’s a detailed look at notable professional fights (drawn from her full history):
- April 5, 2025 – vs. Diana Belbita (UFC): Arm-triangle choke submission at 4:13 of Round 1. A masterclass in transitioning from guard to finish.
- August 16, 2025 – vs. Karine Silva (UFC 319): Unanimous decision loss. Silva’s pace tested Barbosa’s cardio, but she stayed competitive.
- July 20, 2024 – vs. Miranda Maverick (UFC): Unanimous decision loss. Highlighted the need for better striking defense against volume punchers.
- May 4, 2024 – vs. Ernesta Kareckaite (UFC 301): Unanimous decision win. Strong debut showing control and pressure.
- September 5, 2023 – vs. Rainn Guerrero (Contender Series): Armbar submission in Round 1. Earned her UFC contract.
Earlier regional wins, such as decisions over Jessica Middleton and Mariana Piccolo in LFA, built her confidence. Losses, like the TKO to Josiane Nunes in 2019, taught valuable lessons in range management that she applies today.
Furthermore, Barbosa’s four first-round finishes (including amateur bouts) demonstrate her ability to capitalize on mistakes instantly. Each fight adds layers to her game, from improved takedown defense (currently around 50%) to refined striking accuracy.
Strengths, Fighting Style, and Performance Stats of Dione Barbosa
Dione Barbosa embodies the modern grappler. Her style relies on judo throws to close distance, followed by BJJ chains for submissions. Key strengths include:
- Exceptional ground control and submission threat (4-0 sub record pro).
- High fight IQ—rarely gets finished (only one career TKO loss).
- Cardio for three-round wars, as seen in multiple decision victories.
UFC-specific stats paint a clear picture: striking lands at 2.27 significant strikes per minute with 45% accuracy, while absorbing 2.45. She averages 2.23 takedowns per 15 minutes at 42% success. These numbers confirm her as a control fighter rather than a volume striker.
In comparison to division leaders, her grappling pedigree rivals top contenders, though she continues evolving her stand-up. This well-rounded evolution keeps her dangerous against any opponent.
Comparing Dione Barbosa to Other UFC Flyweight Contenders
Within the stacked women’s flyweight division, Dione Barbosa occupies a unique niche. Unlike pure strikers, she forces grappling exchanges that disrupt rhythm. For instance, her arm-triangle finish over Belbita mirrored techniques used by champions like Valentina Shevchenko in past title defenses.
However, recent losses to Silva and Maverick show areas where elite pace and striking volume can challenge her. Still, her trajectory mirrors successful transitions from judo/BJJ backgrounds seen in fighters like Kayla Harrison. With continued improvements, a top-10 push is realistic.
Dione Barbosa record and future potential continue to excite MMA enthusiasts worldwide. Her blend of technical grappling and fighter’s heart positions her for even greater success. If you’re pumped for her April 4 showdown or want more UFC insights, drop your prediction for Dione Barbosa next fight in the comments below! Share this breakdown with your fellow fight fans, hit that like button, and subscribe for regular updates on rising stars like The Witch. Who knows—she could be headlining cards sooner than we think. Let’s keep the conversation going and support this Brazilian talent on her journey to the top!
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