Rose Namajunas is emerging as a serious contender in the flyweight division. The former UFC women’s strawweight champion will make her third appearance at 125 pounds when she faces off against rising contender Tracy Cortez in Denver, headlining UFC Fight Night on Saturday.
Namajunas (13-6) secured her No. 6 ranking in the UFC’s women’s flyweight division by defeating Amanda Ribas in her second fight at this weight class. This victory came after a setback in her flyweight debut against Manon Fiorot, who is currently a top contender behind Valentina Shevchenko. Namajunas formerly trained in Denver alongside Kamaru Usman and Justin Gaethje under coach Trevor Wittman and now enjoys a rare home advantage.
“A win is a win. You know how the UFC works, you’re only relevant if you’re winning, or obviously if you do something special,” Namajunas told reporters on Thursday. “That’s definitely high on my priority list: number one is to protect myself at all times, but number two is to win, and then number three is to be spectacular and perform and be me, and do what I do best.”
Cortez (11-1), stepping in on short notice to replace Maycee Barber, finds herself in the biggest fight of her career, facing a former champion in a five-round main event. Cortez has built a remarkable 11-fight winning streak but has struggled with activity over the past four years, with most of her fights going to a decision. Despite this, she maintains a strong online presence and dedicated fanbase. A victory over Namajunas could significantly boost her career prospects.
“She’s a veteran. This isn’t her first rodeo so I know she’s mentally aware of what’s to come,” Cortez said. “But she hasn’t fought a 125er like myself. She hasn’t fought someone like me at this weight division. Just as unprepared as I am, she is as well.
“I’ll be 6-0 in the UFC with a 12-1 pro record. Although I haven’t been as active, I think I deserve [a title shot]. If not, I’m not too worried about what’s next.”
Also on the card, an intriguing lightweight match between Drew Dober and Jean Silva promises action. The two fighters boast 32 combined finishes and have a reputation for thrilling performances. Dober comes in after a decision loss to Renato Moicano, following five consecutive knockouts. Silva is making a quick return after defeating Charles Jourdain via knockout at UFC 303.
Below is the fight card for Saturday and the latest odds:
UFC Fight Night Card and Odds
– Rose Namajunas -210 vs. Tracy Cortez +175 (Women’s Flyweight)
– Santiago Ponzinibbio -190 vs. Muslim Salikhov +160 (Welterweight)
– Drew Dober -115 vs. Jean Silva -105 (Lightweight)
– Gabriel Bonfim -360 vs. Ange Loosa +280 (Welterweight)
– Christian Rodriguez -210 vs. Julian Erosa +175 (Featherweight)
– Abdul Razak Alhassan -170 vs. Cody Brundage +145 (Middleweight)
UFC Fight Night Viewing Information
Date: July 13 | Start time: 10 p.m. ET (main card)
Location: Ball Arena, Denver
TV channel: ESPN | Stream: fuboTV
Prediction
Rose Namajunas vs. Tracy Cortez: While Namajunas might not be the ideal flyweight, Cortez seems better suited for this weight class. Cortez has statistical advantages in various aspects of combat, including striking, takedowns, and defense. However, Namajunas’ experience against high-caliber opponents and her familiarity with five-round fights give her an edge. Namajunas has faced formidable foes like Zhang Weili, Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Jessica Andrade, and Carla Esparza, and has been prepared for extended bouts. Cortez needs to use her wrestling and size advantage effectively. Nevertheless, Namajunas’ adaptation to Denver’s altitude and her preparation for a 25-minute fight might be decisive. Namajunas is favored to win via Unanimous Decision.