Rose Namajunas, a former two-time UFC strawweight champion, made a significant move up to the flyweight division, aiming for a title shot at 125 pounds. On Saturday night at UFC Atlanta, she faced Miranda Maverick in a crucial matchup that could propel her back into title contention.
Namajunas, with a professional record of 13 wins and 7 losses, previously dominated the strawweight division but made the jump to flyweight after suffering two consecutive defeats at 115 pounds. In her flyweight career, Namajunas has secured 2 wins and 1 loss, including victories over Amanda Ribas and Tracy Cortez. However, she lost a decision fight against Erin Blanchfield last November and sought redemption against Maverick.
Miranda Maverick entered the octagon with an impressive record of 15 wins and 5 losses, riding a four-fight winning streak. Her victories over Jamey-Lyn Horth, Dione Barbosa, Andre Lee, and Priscila Cachoeira put her in a strong position to challenge Namajunas. The 27-year-old Maverick believed that a win over a former champion like Namajunas would significantly boost her chances for a title shot.
The first round showcased a strategic battle, with Maverick attempting to close the distance using her jab while Namajunas pressured her. Maverick struck first with a solid left hand, causing Namajunas to slip but quickly regain her footing. This early success gave Maverick confidence, prompting her to become more aggressive with her striking combinations.
In round two, Maverick opened with quick combinations, but Namajunas responded effectively with a series of strikes of her own. While using a plodding footwork approach, Namajunas sought to create angles for power shots but struggled to connect consistently. However, she executed a slick takedown, landing in open guard. Maverick fought to regain her feet, yet Namajunas kept control, trying to apply pressure from behind.
This exchange repeated itself as Maverick almost escaped, allowing Namajunas to grab an arm and search for a choke, but Maverick managed to power out. As momentum shifted, Maverick took the back position and attempted an arm triangle but could not secure the finish, leading to a tense exchange between the two fighters.
In the third round, Maverick started aggressively, attempting a takedown that Namajunas skillfully defended against the cage. Then, a swift left hook from Namajunas dropped Maverick to the canvas, allowing Namajunas to establish position on top. While Maverick recovered and attempted to shield her movement with her legs, Namajunas swiftly adjusted, securing top control in half guard.
Despite Maverick's efforts to escape by attempting to go belly down, Namajunas maintained her dominant position, controlling the action until the final horn sounded. The fight concluded with Namajunas securing the victory, while Maverick appeared to be limping, indicating a possible leg injury.
The judges scored the bout unanimously in favor of Rose Namajunas, with the official result reflecting 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28. This victory not only serves as a turnaround for Namajunas but also re-establishes her position in the competitive flyweight division, where she continues her quest for another title opportunity.
