Such a touching moment...
The first fight of the UFC 229 main card lived up to the hype as Michelle Waterson and Felice Herrig fought it out to the bitter end.
Both fighters have been around the game a while, but neither have fought for UFC gold, and with a lot of top ranked straw weights losing recently this fight felt like a title eliminator of sorts.
Tough one to call. Herrig was clearly the bigger stronger fighter, whilst Waterson had the speed and technique over her opponent. Something had to give.
https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1048757503540912129
In the end, the "Karate Hottie" was dominant in her display and came out with the unanimous decision victory.
The Jackson/Winklejohn stablemate completely nullified the strength of Herrig with her speed, beautifully keeping the Chicago native outside striking distance, and catching her with some beautiful front and side kicks as she attempted to get inside.
https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1048759960308334592
Waterson, seemed in control and landed a sweet head kick midway through the second round before taking Herriq down. When Herriq landed on top of the former 105lb Invicta champion it looked like trouble for Waterson but she managed to land some nasty elbows from the ground which clearly hurt her opponent.
Waterson certified her win in the final round where she dominated from start to finish leaving the decision in no doubt.
https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1048764101197881344
"Karate Hottie" is very popular among fans, and is very active on social media where she regularly posts videos her life away from the Octagon with her daughter.
The married, mother of one spoke to UFC commentator Joe Rogan after the fight and endeared herself even more to fans when she said, "I want to be the first UFC champ that's a mom."
https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1048765074712621058
Give the girl a title shot already!
