UFC 257: Marina Rodriguez vs Amanda Ribas- Prediction and Analysis

Published 01/22/2021, 11:31 PM EST

The main card opener for UFC 257 on Fight Island witnesses a women’s strawweight clash between Marina Rodriguez and Amanda Ribas. The surging Brazilian stars are both ranked within the top 10 and have plenty to gain from a statement performance. Moreover, there’s plenty of hype surrounding the card as Conor McGregor is placed on the headlining marquee.

The 115-pound women’s division is a cesspool of talent that stretches well past the top 10 divisional combatants. A newer champion in Zhang Weili has sparked excitement amongst the contenders, and it’s a race to the top. Although the upcoming contenders are to be veterans like Rose Namajunas and Carla Esparza, there’s plenty of scope for newer talent.

UFC women’s strawweight: Marina Rodriguez vs Amanda Ribas

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Marina Rodriguez fought once in 2020 and came out on the wrong side of a split decision loss to Carla Esparza. The defeat snapped her run as an unbeaten fighter and she invariably passed over for contention. Additionally, she came off a draw in her second last fight and hasn’t been in the win column since August 2019.

The 33-year-old has crisp striking, and she’s not short on options when it comes to firing on all cylinders. Rodriguez is able to enter into range effectively, however, there’s traditionally been a cardio deficiency in the later rounds. Her last fight saw a marginally diminished output that was likely her downfall in the eyes of the judges.

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2020’s Breakout star

Amanda Ribas had a breakout year in 2020 and has become a major player in the women’s strawweight division. Ribas is undefeated in the promotion and is currently on a five-fight win streak that extends to May 2016. What’s more, the quality of opponents scalped on her resume is increasingly impressive as she continues on her run.

The 10-1 fighter is fundamentally sound in both the stand-up and the ground game, however, the grappling seemingly shines through. Her last victory over Paige VanZant via a round-one armbar showcased her ability to transition effectively in the pocket. Rodriguez has shown susceptibility to suffering from top control, and this could be her undoing.

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Prediction: Amanda Ribas to claim a unanimous decision victory

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.

UFC 257: Marina Rodriguez vs Amanda Ribas- Prediction and Analysis

UFC women’s strawweight: Marina Rodriguez vs Amanda Ribas

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2020’s Breakout star