Rose Namajunas Dominates Tracy Cortez in UFC Denver Main Event Victory

Rose Namajunas vs. Tracy Cortez

Rose Namajunas has firmly established herself as a formidable force in the flyweight division with a commanding performance against Tracy Cortez at UFC Denver. The former strawweight champion showcased her striking and grappling prowess, securing a unanimous decision victory and solidifying her climb up the flyweight rankings.

Namajunas set the tone early in the fight, dropping Cortez to the canvas in the opening round with a precise combination of punches. Despite not securing the finish, Namajunas controlled the pace and demonstrated versatility throughout the bout. The judges scored the fight 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in her favor.

"I knew she was going to be really tough," Namajunas said about Cortez. "I think I should have maybe just let her up [after the knockdown], but she was good at getting her guard. I knew her wrestling was really good. I was hesitant to wrestle too much, but I just kept feeling successful there. I just kept going to it."

Namajunas’ speed and precision were evident from the start, as she repeatedly landed straight punches on Cortez, who struggled with head movement. A stiff jab followed by a hook put Cortez on the ground early in the fight, but Namajunas opted to return to her feet when a finish seemed unlikely.

In the second round, Cortez found her rhythm and attempted a takedown, but Namajunas quickly regained her footing. Despite a slight dip in striking effectiveness, Namajunas connected with better combinations and executed a slick takedown, further asserting her dominance.

Namajunas continued to leverage her grappling skills, maintaining control and advancing positions, though she couldn’t secure a submission. Her dominance in the grappling exchanges left Cortez with few opportunities to mount a significant offense.

As the fight progressed into the final rounds, Namajunas alternated between long-distance strikes and takedown threats, keeping Cortez off balance. Cortez’s efforts to rally fell short as Namajunas’ footwork and defense carried her to the final horn.

With this victory, Namajunas has now won two straight main event bouts at flyweight, proving her adaptability and strength in a new division. Eager for more success, Namajunas has her eyes set on another title, possibly even advocating for a new belt within the UFC.

“Give me the belt, I want it,” Namajunas declared. “Maybe a women’s ‘BMF,’ I don’t know.”