Melissa Mullins vs Daria Zhelezniakova

Melissa Mullins meets Daria “Zhelezniakova in a bantamweight showdown. Mullins is riding momentum off a second-round TKO while Zhelezniakova returns looking to bounce back from a recent submission defeat.

Core Stats Comparison

• Each athlete has 3 or less recorded UFC matches, Mulloins(3) | Zhelezniakova(2)

Striking Breakdown:

Both fighters share identical striking accuracy at 56%, but the gap in defensive ability is quite large. Daria Zhelezniakova has a 79% striking defense, while Melissa Mullins sits at just 49%. This is reflected in their damage intake—Zhelezniakova absorbs only 1.7 significant strikes per minute, compared to 3.26 for Mullins. Mullins lands slightly more strikes per minute (3.43 vs. 3.29), but her nearly even striking differential is overshadowed by Zhelezniakova’s defense.

Grappling Breakdown:

The grappling stats tell a mixed story. Mullins excels in takedown defense (85%) and averages 1.53 takedowns per 15 minutes, making her the more active grappler. Meanwhile, Zhelezniakova has landed every takedown she's attempted—posting a perfect 100% takedown accuracy—but attempts fewer overall (0.8 per 15 minutes). Both have a 0 submission average, indicating limited finishing threats on the ground.

Summary:

With limited data on both, these numbers could shift with more octagon time, currently Zhelezniakova stats show elite defense. However, Mullins has the advantage in wrestling volume, and if she can impose her ground game, it could tip the fight in her favor. but stylistically, it’s a classic striker vs. grappler matchup in the making.