Carla Esparza became the UFC’s first ever Women’s Strawweight Champion in December of 2014 by winning the Ultimate Fighter 20 tournament, but hasn’t been seen since losing that title against Joanna Jedrzejczyk one year ago.
She’s finally on her way back, Tweeting out this week that she’s healed up, ready to return, and simply awaiting a fight booking.
update on when I’m going to fight again: I am ready to fight. Just been waiting for a spot to open up on a card. Hopefully soon😊👊🏽.#UFC199??
— Carla Esparza (@CarlaEsparza1) March 24, 2016
Penick’s Analysis: Esparza got out-classed by Jedrzejczyk, exposing some significant holes in her striking game when she couldn’t get Jedrzejczyk down, but her skill set still matches up well against most of the division. She can quickly get back into the title mix with a return win and then consistent appearances and success in the cage from there. Just getting back into the cage in order to remind fans of who she is will be a big step after such a long layoff.
[Photo (c) Tim Heitman via USA Today Sports]
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