The first time Jessica Andrade and Rose Namajunas met, it was an absolute thriller, with the former slamming “Thug Rose” twice on her way to a TKO victory. Despite being the winner of that fight, though, Andrade finds herself as the underdog in the rematch, as Namajunas was having her way in the first meeting before getting taken out. Who wins the rematch?
Betting Preview for the Jessica Andrade vs Rose Namajunas Women’s Strawweight Bout at UFC 251 on July 11, 2020
Where: UFC Fight Island, Yas Island
When: Saturday, June 11, 2020
Odds: Jéssica Andrade (+145) vs. Rose Namajunas (-175)
TV Broadcast: UFC Fight Pass
Betting on Jessica Andrade (+145)
MMA Record:20-7-0
Andrade’s reign as champion of the women’s strawweight division champion didn’t last long. After capturing the belt with a sensational TKO win over Namajunas in May 2019, Andrade got demolished in her first title defense by Zhang Weili in August of the same year. It was indeed an unfortunate loss for Andrade, who was rolling with four wins in a row prior to the setback. Moreover, she had won seven of eight before the loss to Weili. Andrade will have to continue finding ways to negate the reach advantages of Namajunas. In the first fight against Namajunas, Andrade recorded four takedowns, but she wasn’t able to mount any submission attempts. That being said, Andrade can finish opponents on the canvas, as evidenced by her seven submission wins against three losses. Andrade has better grappling skills between her and Namajunas, averaging 3.21 takedowns per 15 minutes and a 58 percent takedown accuracy.
Betting on Rose Namajunas (-175)
MMA Record: 9-4-0
Like Andrade, Namajunas will come into this Saturday’s fight in Yas Island fresh, as she hasn’t fought since her first meeting with Beta Estaca. Namajunas was riding a three-fight unbeaten streak before the TKO loss to Andrade. Based on the first fight, it seems that Namajunas’ quickness is something that Andrade will have trouble dealing with again. Namajunas won the striking in that fight, landing more total strikes, 110-98, and more significant strikes, 110-94. Namajunas is also taller by four inches, has a three-inch reach advantage, and a 4.5-inch leg reach advantage over Andrade. Namajunas’ team definitely recognizes Andrade’s striking power, but Namajunas’ length could once again keep her opponent at bay by using nicely time jabs and kicks. Namajunas has six wins by way of submissions and one via T/KO.
