Live Updates: Natalia Silva Clashes with Rose Namajunas at UFC 324
The highly anticipated fight between Natalia Silva and Rose Namajunas took place at UFC 324 on Saturday. The event occurred at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where both fighters aimed to make their mark in the flyweight division. Silva, ranked No. 7, entered the octagon with a record of 19 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw. Namajunas, a former two-time strawweight champion, ranked No. 14, held a professional record of 14 wins and 7 losses.
Natalia Silva’s Impressive Streak
Natalia Silva is currently undefeated in the UFC with a remarkable 7-0 octagon record. She has been on a 13-fight win streak dating back to 2017, showcasing her dominance in various matches. This fight marked her third consecutive bout against a former champion, following victories over Alexa Grasso and Jessica Andrade.
Rose Namajunas’ Transition to Flyweight
Rose Namajunas has faced challenges since transitioning to the 125-pound division. In her new weight class, she has a record of 3 wins and 2 losses. Her victories include fights against Miranda Maverick, Tracy Cortez, and Amanda Ribas, while her losses came against top contenders Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot.
Fight Breakdown: Round One
Both fighters exhibited strong movements early in the fight, but neither could deliver significant strikes initially. Namajunas landed a jab followed by a leg kick, successfully countering Silva’s attempts. As the round progressed, Namajunas gained an advantage, scoring points with a right hand and controlling the fight’s tempo.
- Silva attempted several kicks but struggled to land effectively.
- Namajunas showcased solid defense while delivering impactful punches.
- The first round ended with MMA Fighting scoring it 10-9 in favor of Namajunas.
Implications of the Fight
A victory for Silva was considered crucial, possibly securing her a title shot against Valentina Shevchenko. Fans viewed her as a strong contender for future championship bouts within the UFC. Meanwhile, Namajunas aimed to utilize this fight to establish her presence in the flyweight category.
Betting Odds
The odds reflected Silva’s status as a favorite, with FanDuel listing her at -330, while Namajunas was set at +265. This discrepancy indicated a substantial expectation for Silva to win, yet offered value for those betting on the experience and skill of “Thug Rose.”
As the fight continued, both athletes were keenly aware of the stakes involved. With Namajunas taking an early lead, the outcome remained uncertain, promising an exciting finish to UFC 324.
