Jessica Andrade became the new UFC women’s strawweight champion in style at UFC 237 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Despite early adversity, including a noticeably marked up left eye, Andrade scored a remarkable second-round knockout victory after slamming Rose Namajunas head-first into the canvas.
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Rose Namajunas looked outstanding throughout the opening stages of the main event bout. The champion showcased exceptional footwork and quickly moved in and out of Andrade’s punching range to land significant punches early and often. Her jab and 1-2 down the middle was troubling the challenger.
Andrade attempted a couple of slam takedowns in the first round but Namajunas opted to defend them by locking in a kimura submission that deterred Andrade from finishing the attempt with force. When Andrade did follow-through with the takedown, Namajunas trapped Andrade in an armbar submission but the challenger was able to escape.
However, in the second round, Andrade again attempted the takedown but this time committed fully to the attempt and launched Namajunas’ head into the canvas.
Jéssica "Bate-Estaca" Andrade senhores. Brutalidade para fazer jus ao apelido e se tornar campeã mundial.pic.twitter.com/PJUox09bg5
— Henrique Mathias (@RiqueMathias) May 12, 2019
With the win, Jessica Andrade moves to 20-6 and extends her winning streak to four. For Namajunas, it was her first defeat since losing to Karolina Kowalkiewicz by split decision at UFC 201 in July 2016. After the fight, she explained that losing the title was “a huge pressure off my shoulders.”
Wow, I don’t think anyone saw that coming, Rose had her number in the striking and was more technical on the ground but holy shit don’t let Andrade pick your ass up. #UFC237
— Angela Hill (@AngieOverkill) May 12, 2019
Thank god Rose is ok! I was really nervous watching that. The neck stuff freaks me out especially being a victim of neck injuries as well. #UFC237
— Aljamain Sterling (@FunkMaster_UFC) May 12, 2019
If you didn’t know, bate estaca means pile driver. Now you know why they call her that. 😱#ufc237
— Eryk Anders (@erykanders) May 12, 2019
Congrats to @jessicammapro. Really hope @rosenamajunas is okay.
— Nina Ansaroff (@NinaAnsaroff) May 12, 2019
I would think there would be an immediate rematch but maybe Rose doesn’t want that.. what do you think? #ufc237
— Katlyn Chookagian (@blondefighter) May 12, 2019
For full UFC 237 results and highlights, read more.