Maria Guedez Jr. Edges Kiya O’Sullivan in Tactical Split
Nantes, France — September 26, 2025
Venezuelan strawweight Maria Guedez Jr. (5-1) showcased grit and tactical brilliance in a razor-close split decision win over Ireland’s Kiya O’Sullivan (4-2) at the PFL Europe Semifinals. The bout, held at Zenith Nantes Metropole, was a showcase of high-level strategy and relentless pace, with Guedez Jr. securing the nod through superior cage control and timely takedowns.
Guedez Jr. Grinds Out the Win with Pressure and Positioning
From the opening bell, Guedez Jr. pressed forward, cutting off angles and forcing O’Sullivan into clinch exchanges. While O’Sullivan landed cleaner strikes in open space, Guedez Jr. neutralized the offense with body locks and trips, repeatedly dragging the fight to the mat.
Rounds 1 and 3 saw Guedez Jr. dominate the positional battle, pinning O’Sullivan against the cage and landing short knees and elbows. Though O’Sullivan rallied in Round 2 with crisp boxing and footwork, two judges favored Guedez Jr.’s control and aggression.
“I knew I had to make it ugly,” Guedez Jr. said post-fight. “She’s slick, but I’m stronger and smarter in the clinch.”
O’Sullivan’s Striking Falls Just Short
Kiya O’Sullivan entered the bout with a reputation for clean technique and high fight IQ. She landed sharp counters and defended takedowns well in stretches, but couldn’t stay off the cage long enough to sway the judges. The loss is her second career defeat and a tough lesson in the importance of octagon control.
Guedez Jr. Eyes PFL Europe Strawweight Final
With the win, Maria Guedez Jr. moves closer to a potential PFL Europe Strawweight Final appearance. Her grinding style and ability to dictate pace make her a dangerous matchup for any striker in the division.
Conclusion
Maria Guedez Jr.’s split decision win over Kiya O’Sullivan wasn’t flashy—but it was earned. In a sport where highlight reels often overshadow fundamentals, Guedez Jr. reminded fans that pressure, positioning, and grit still win fights. As the PFL Europe Finals approach, she stands poised to become Venezuela’s next MMA star.
Tags: Maria Guedez Jr., Kiya O’Sullivan, PFL Europe, MMA results, strawweight MMA, split decision, Venezuelan MMA, Irish MMA, PFL Finals, 2025 MMA schedule
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
