The "Savage" Gillian Robertson got a welcome piece of news this week — she's locked in for her 2021 campaign opener.
Just 25 years old, Robertson is preparing for her tenth outing inside the octagon. The Din Thomas protégé aims to dethrone former Invicta FC standout Miranda Maverick, who enters her UFC tenure at 1-0.
"I'm genuinely pumped about this contest," Robertson shared with MMA Empire.
"Miranda's a real competitor — she lives and breathes fighting, always ready, driven by pure passion for the sport. I have a lot of respect for that mentality."
Maverick made a strong impression in her promotional debut, dispatching Liana Jojua via first-round doctor stoppage at UFC 254. Despite riding a six-fight winning streak, Robertson believes she holds the edge skill-wise in this matchup.
"Our approaches are pretty comparable," Robertson explained.
"Both of us are top-heavy grapplers who prefer controlling position on the ground, landing strikes, then hunting for submissions. I think I'll come out slightly ahead, regardless — it's going to be a hard-fought battle."
Nine fights deep in her UFC run, Robertson embraces the prospect of halting Maverick's momentum, even knowing her opponent is still adjusting to the promotion's spotlight. The Canadian fighter has never backed down from adversity — she feeds off it.
"I'm just completely devoted to this sport," Robertson added.
"I thrive on competition. I value every chance I get to step into the cage. Every single bout is winnable for me. Even the nights things didn't go my way, I'd gladly take those fights back in a heartbeat."
Watch the complete interview above as the "Savage" talks through her 2020 journey, training under Din Thomas, and her perspective on the rivalry between The Ultimate Fighter and Dana White's Contender Series.
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