Gillian Robertson is a Canadian mixed martial artist (MMA) currently competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the Strawweight division. She was born on May 17, 1995, in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Robertson began her MMA career in 2016 after a successful amateur record of 9-1. She gained recognition after participating in The Ultimate Fighter 26 competition series and subsequently signed with the UFC. Robertson holds the women’s UFC record for submissions at four and has fought in multiple weight classes throughout her career.
Early Career and Ultimate Fighter
After amassing a record of 9-1 in amateur fights, Gillian Robertson made her professional debut in 2016. She quickly gained recognition when she participated in The Ultimate Fighter 26, a UFC TV series that showcased aspiring fighters competing to become the inaugural 125-pound women’s champion. In the preliminary fights of the show, Robertson faced off against the experienced Barb Honchak. Although she ultimately lost the bout via TKO in the second round, her performance garnered the attention of fans and UFC officials.
Despite the setback on The Ultimate Fighter, Robertson made her official UFC debut on December 1, 2017, at The Ultimate Fighter 26 Finale. The event marked a significant milestone in her career as she stepped into the Octagon to face Emily Whitmire. In an impressive display of skill, Robertson secured a victory by submission in the first round, showcasing her proficiency in grappling and setting the stage for her future success in the organization.
“Competing on The Ultimate Fighter was a valuable experience for me. It taught me a lot about the sport and the level of competition in the UFC. Although I didn’t win the show, it motivated me to work harder and prove myself in the Octagon. My UFC debut was a pivotal moment, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase my skills on a global stage.”
UFC Successes and Notable Fights
Gillian Robertson’s journey in the UFC has been marked by numerous successes and memorable fights. Since her impressive victory in her UFC debut, Robertson has showcased her skills and proven to be a formidable opponent in the octagon.
One of Robertson’s defining strengths is her proficiency in submissions. She has secured submission wins in several of her bouts, including victories over Molly McCann, Sarah Frota, and Veronica Macedo. Robertson’s ability to finish fights on the ground with her grappling prowess has solidified her reputation as a submission specialist.
While Robertson has experienced some losses, including bouts against Miranda Maverick and JJ Aldrich, she has consistently displayed her ability to bounce back and learn from these setbacks. Her tenacity and determination to improve make her a fighter to watch in the UFC flyweight division.
Professional Grappling Career
Gillian Robertson’s skills extend beyond the MMA octagon, as she has showcased her talent in professional grappling matches as well. Among her notable appearances is in the Submission Underground events, where she has competed against top-level opponents in intense grappling showdowns.
“The grappling matches have allowed me to further demonstrate my submission abilities and grappling prowess,” says Robertson. “It’s a different setting and challenge, but I love the excitement and the opportunity to test myself against high-caliber grapplers.”
Robertson’s matches in the Submission Underground have been marked by her relentless pursuit of victory and her impressive submission victories. Notable opponents she has faced include Amanda Loewen, Pearl Gonzalez, and Katlyn Chookagian. Her ability to apply various submission techniques, such as the rear-naked choke and other advanced maneuvers, has led her to come out on top in many of these grappling battles.
Championships and Accomplishments
Gillian Robertson has established an impressive array of accomplishments throughout her UFC career. She currently holds the record for the most submission wins in the women’s UFC division, boasting an impressive total of seven victories by submission. Her exceptional submission skills have become her trademark, earning her recognition as a dominant force on the ground.
In recognition of her exceptional performance, Robertson has also been honored with the prestigious Performance of the Night award. This accolade was awarded to her following an outstanding display of skill and determination in her fight against Piera Rodríguez. Robertson’s ability to finish fights and her relentless drive have made her a standout competitor in the UFC.
