Dana White makes up her mind and nabs Carla Esparza as a challenger for the Namajunas belt

C. Esparza (left) and R. Namajunas (right) faced each other in 2014. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

After showing indecision regarding the next challenger for the group's title, Dana White already seems to know about the future of the strawweight division (up to 52,1 kg.). In an interview with 'ESPN', the 'boss' confirmed Carla esparza as rival of Rose namajunas for the champion's first commitment in 2022. Marina Rodriguez was one of the favorites for the vacancy.

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"Carla esparza (as Rose’s opponent), 100%”, said White.

Dana's statement, then, confirms a rematch between the athletes. The straws met for the first time in 2014, in the final of the 'The Ultimate Fighter' (TUF) 20, in a clash valid for the group title.

More than eight years later, the combatants meet again, and in a completely different scenario. Beaten eight years ago, Namajunas now wears the UFC title and shows, with each fight, an evolution. Carla, in turn, achieved the status of challenger after having a great run, collecting five victories in a row, and reaching second place in the category.

The commitment to Esparza, in addition to giving Rose the chance to offset the 2014 setback, represents the North American's second title defense. The combatant regained the throne in April, after beating Weili Zhang.

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