The UFC Fight Night 174 main card featuring a thrilling matchup between strawweights Carla Esparza, a former champion, and Marina Rodriguez, an intriguing up-and-comer. With both fighters entering Saturday's fight ranked No. 7 and No. 9, respectively, a win at Fight Island would push them high in the running for a potential title shot.
Both fighters laid it all on the light but it was Carla Esparza who found her hand raised at the end of a judges' split decision (30-27, 29-28 and 28-29).
A submission artist, Esparza took the fight to the mat in the opening minute of the match. But despite being on her back, Rodriguez landed elbows that cut up the former champion. When the two finally rose, it was Esparza wearing the damage and Rodriguez continue to land heavy blows.
Esparza approached the second round with the same strategy, driving Rodriguez to the canvas and keeping the fight there for most of the round. It was an overall solid round for Esparza who made one crucial mistake by attempting a late ankle lock that allowed Rodriguez to reverse positions and begin landing her own heavy blows, potentially stealing the round.
With the fight possibly going either way, Esparza once again sought control. She was all over Rodriguez, taking her down and giving her no escape. Any attempt by Rodriguez to stand up, she was immediately taken back down. The scrappy wrestling and ground-and-pound technique ultimately led to a split decision win for Esparza who controlled most of the fight with her strikes and positioning.
In ending Rodriguez's unbeaten record, Esparza extended her winning streak to four. She now boasts an 18-6 record and could find herself vying for the title once more. The No. 9-ranked Rodriguez falls to 12-1-2.