Michelle Waterson scores impressive win over Felice Herrig
In a highly anticipated matchup at UFC 229, Felice Herrig faced off against Michelle Waterson in a strawweight showdown. Herrig came into the fight with a solid game plan, looking to utilize her pressure, grappling skills, and strength advantage against Waterson, who was a former atomweight champion. However, what Herrig failed to anticipate was Waterson's tenacity and skill in the octagon.
The first round saw both fighters trading blows, with Herrig using forward pressure and effective clinch work, while Waterson landed a variety of kicks. In the second round, Herrig attempted to impose her will once again, but Waterson managed to counter a takedown attempt and execute a successful throw. From the top position, Waterson stayed active and landed strikes, ultimately winning the round.
In the final stanza, Herrig secured an early takedown but found herself in trouble as Waterson unleashed a barrage of elbows from the bottom position. Waterson then attempted an omoplata before the fight returned to the feet, where she continued to land kicks and prevent Herrig from mounting any significant offense.
With the judges' scores of 30-26, 29-28, and 30-27 in favor of Waterson, she emerged victorious in the main card opener. Expressing her disappointment at not being considered a contender, Waterson showcased her well-rounded skills and proved that she belongs among the elite in the division.
Waterson's record improved to 16-6 with her second consecutive win, while Herrig suffered her second straight loss, bringing her record to 14-8. Despite the setback, Herrig showed resilience and determination throughout the fight, but ultimately fell short against Waterson's superior tactics and execution.
In her post-fight comments, Waterson expressed her excitement at being able to showcase her skills under the bright lights of the octagon. With this impressive victory, Waterson solidified her position in the division and sent a strong message to the rest of the strawweight contenders.
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