Rose Namajunas might just make a splash at 125 pounds, after all. Her latest outing? A step in the right direction, for sure.
The former two-time UFC women’s strawweight champ showcased her diverse skill set. On Saturday, she clinched a unanimous decision against Amanda Ribas in the UFC on ESPN 53 headliner. The judges scored it 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47, all in favor of Namajunas. This victory was a much-needed comeback after losses to Carla Esparza and Manon Fiorot.
The fight was a tactical affair, with neither fighter gaining a clear advantage in standup exchanges. Namajunas was the more precise striker, though Ribas kept busy. On the ground, “Thug Rose” truly shone, using her opponent’s head-and-arm throws against her. This strategy helped Namajunas gain control time and momentum.
Ribas now faces a tough spot, having lost four of her last seven bouts.
In the co-main event, Karl Williams dominated Justin Tafa with takedowns and ground control. The judges unanimously favored Williams, marking his continued rise in the heavyweight division.
Tafa showed promise with powerful uppercuts but couldn’t fend off Williams’s takedowns. Despite a late attempt to turn the tide, Tafa remained under Williams’s control till the end.
Williams is now riding a seven-fight win streak, a testament to his growing prowess.
Further down the card, Edmen Shahbazyan made a statement by stopping A.J. Dobson with elbows and punches. Despite a shaky start, Shahbazyan turned the tables and secured an impressive first-round victory.
Payton Talbott also made waves, finishing Cameron Saaiman with punches in the second round. Talbott’s striking was on point, marking him as a fighter to watch at 135 pounds.
Youssef Zalal returned with a bang, submitting Billy Quarantillo with a rear-naked choke. Zalal’s performance was nearly flawless, showcasing his potential for a significant climb in the featherweight ranks.
Lastly, Fernando Padilla bounced back with a win against Luis Pajuelo, securing a submission via a standing brabo choke. Padilla’s reach advantage and striking prowess were too much for Pajuelo, ending his winning streak.
These fights underline the unpredictable nature of MMA, where anything can happen, and every match tells its own story.