5 fights to make in the UFC women's strawweight division

Carla Esparza defeated Rose Namajunas at UFC 274
Carla Esparza defeated Rose Namajunas at UFC 274

#4. Tecia Torres vs. Yan Xiaonan

Tecia Torres has won three of her last four fights
Tecia Torres has won three of her last four fights

Both these women feature in the top 10 of the UFC strawweight rankings but are also coming off losses. A bout between the two contenders seems like an appropriate match-up that would identify who deserves to remain around the top stars in the division.

Yan Xiaonan recently came very close to defeating the highly-ranked Marina Rodriguez. However, her record now shows two straight losses so she will likely face a lower-ranked opponent next time out. Tecia Torres was on a three-fight win streak before suffering a split decision loss to Mackenzie Dern.

With both women on the verge of breaking into the upper echelons of the division, now seems like a good time to figure out who is most worthy. This bout would allow one of these fighters to get back in the win column whilst the other would face a tough challenge to get back up the rankings.


#3. Jessica Andrade vs. Mackenzie Dern

Jessica Andrade is a former strawweight champion and a flyweight title challenger
Jessica Andrade is a former strawweight champion and a flyweight title challenger

Jessica Andrade is a former champion at strawweight and after attempting to move up to flyweight, made her successful return to the division in April. While she has been calling for a title shot, she might have to do a little more to secure one given how deep the 115 lb division is.

Mackenzie Dern has won five of her last six and is looking increasingly comfortable taking on the top fighters in the division. She currently sits just one spot above Andrade in the rankings, so a fight makes sense for both women. The bout will give Dern the chance to prove she's ready for title contention.

As for Andrade, she would get the opportunity to strengthen her case for a title shot. With both women at the top of such a deep division and with limited dance partners available, this seems like the most logical match-up to make. It could also be a particularly special occasion if it were to take place in Brazil.

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