On May 3, 2025, Gillian Robertson stepped into the Octagon at UFC Des Moines, facing off against Marina Rodriguez in a women’s strawweight clash that had fans buzzing. The Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, hosted this electrifying event, marking the UFC’s first return to the state in 25 years. Robertson, ranked No. 12 in the strawweight division, took on the No. 9-ranked Rodriguez in a grappler-versus-striker showdown. With her signature grit, Robertson aimed to extend her three-fight win streak from 2024. This fight wasn’t just another bout; it was a pivotal moment for the Canadian fighter to climb the rankings and inch closer to a title shot. Let’s dive into how Gillian Robertson, known as “The Savage,” carved her path from cardio kickboxing to becoming one of the UFC’s most dangerous submission artists.
Gillian Robertson’s Unlikely Start in MMA
Unlike many fighters who grow up dreaming of the cage, Gillian Robertson didn’t even know MMA existed until she was 16. Hailing from Niagara Falls, Canada, she initially wanted to try cardio kickboxing to stay active. Her father stumbled upon a local gym through a pro fighter doing community service, and that’s where her journey began. What started as classes with “soccer moms” quickly turned into a passion. By 18, she was already competing in amateur fights, racking up an impressive 11 bouts in just two years before going pro. Her parents, initially hesitant due to their anti-violence stance, now cheer her on as she prepares for battles like the one against Rodriguez. This unconventional entry makes her story relatable and inspiring, showing that destiny can find you in unexpected places.
From Kickboxing to Submission Queen
Gillian Robertson’s rise from kickboxing to MMA is a tale of grit and adaptation. While her early days involved throwing kicks for fitness, she soon discovered her knack for grappling. Training under Din Thomas in Miami, she honed her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, becoming one of the UFC’s top female grapplers. With nine submission wins, she holds the second-most finishes among women in UFC history. Her 2024 run was stellar, with victories over Polyana Viana, Michelle Waterson-Gomez, and Luana Pinheiro, all showcasing her evolving skill set. Against Pinheiro at UFC Vegas 100, she even unleashed devastating 12-6 elbows, sparking debates about their legality. Fans on X praised her relentless style, with one post calling her “the best active Canadian fighter” ahead of UFC Des Moines. Her ability to blend striking with submissions keeps opponents guessing, making every fight a must-watch.
Key Moments at UFC Des Moines
The clash with Marina Rodriguez was a defining moment for Gillian Robertson. Rodriguez, a seasoned striker with a 17-5-2 record, had lost two straight split decisions, making her hungry for redemption. Analysts predicted a grappler-versus-striker battle, with Robertson favored at -270 odds. She expressed confidence in her game plan, telling BJPenn.com she expected Rodriguez to “want out of there” under pressure. Robertson aimed to drag the fight to the ground, leveraging her submission prowess. Experts like Daniel Vithlani from CBSSports.com backed her to win by decision or submission, citing Rodriguez’s struggles against grapplers. The prelims aired live on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET, with the main card at 10 p.m. ET, and fans were glued to their screens to see if Robertson could deliver another highlight-reel performance.
Why Gillian Robertson’s Story Resonates
What makes Gillian Robertson’s rise from kickboxing to MMA so compelling? It’s her underdog spirit and relentless drive. Here’s a quick look at her journey in numbers:
- UFC Debut: 2017, The Ultimate Fighter
- Record: 15-8 (12-6 in UFC)
- Submission Wins: 9, second-most among UFC women
- 2024 Fights: 3 wins, all against ranked opponents
- Current Ranking: No. 12 in UFC Women’s Strawweight
Her story isn’t just about stats. It’s about a teenager who stumbled into a gym and found her calling. She’s not the loudest in the room, but her performances speak volumes. Posts on X reflect her growing fanbase, with one user noting her fight against a former champ as “bread and butter.” Robertson’s humility—she called her UFC Vegas 100 win “not my best”—keeps her grounded, even as she eyes a title shot against champ Zhang Weili.
The Road Ahead for Gillian Robertson
Looking forward, Gillian Robertson’s trajectory is bright. A win over Rodriguez could propel her into the top 10, setting up high-stakes matchups. She’s already hinted at wanting “one or two more” fights before challenging for the belt. Her training in Miami, combined with her knack for seizing opportunities, makes her a dangerous contender. The UFC’s strawweight division is stacked, but Robertson’s blend of heart and skill sets her apart. Fans are already speculating about potential clashes with fighters like Angela Hill, who expressed interest in facing her after UFC Fight Night 251. Whether it’s another submission or a striking upset, Robertson’s next move will keep the MMA world talking.
A Fighter to Watch
Gillian Robertson’s journey from cardio kickboxing to UFC stardom is a reminder that greatness can come from unexpected beginnings. Her performance at UFC Des Moines against Marina Rodriguez showcased her evolution from a novice to a feared grappler. With every fight, she proves she’s more than a one-trick pony, blending strikes with submissions to keep fans on edge. As she climbs the strawweight ladder, her story captivates because it’s real—no hype, just hard work. So, keep an eye on “The Savage.” She’s not just fighting for wins; she’s fighting to inspire anyone who’s ever taken a chance on a dream. What’s next for her? Only time and the Octagon will tell.