Rose Namajunas, a former strawweight champion, made a successful debut in the flyweight division by defeating Amanda Ribas in a unanimous decision. Despite coming off a two-bout losing streak, Namajunas showcased her skills and outpointed Ribas in almost every aspect of the fight.
Namajunas demonstrated superior control throughout the fight, maintaining range and dictating the pace. While Ribas managed to secure takedowns, she often found herself in vulnerable positions on the ground. Namajunas utilized her control time effectively, even though she did not inflict significant damage from the top position.
Room for Improvement
Despite her victory, Namajunas acknowledged that she still has areas to work on. She recognized the need to enhance her power at the flyweight division, as it was not as prominent against Ribas. However, her composure and ability to stay calm during the fight were commendable, allowing her to secure the win.
Looking ahead, Namajunas expressed interest in facing elite flyweights such as Manon Fiorot, Erin Blanchfield, and Maycee Barber. These fighters are ranked above her in the ESPN rankings, and a potential matchup against them could further solidify Namajunas’ position in the flyweight division.
Rose Namajunas’ victory over Amanda Ribas was a strategic display of control and composure. While there are areas for improvement, Namajunas’s transition to the flyweight division has shown promise, and her willingness to face top-ranked opponents bodes well for her future in the division.
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