Carla Esparza ignores Zhang's suggestion and reinforces her status as strawweight champion

C. Esparza at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

After knocking out Joanna Jedrzejczyk No. UFC 275, which took place last Saturday (11), the Chinese Weili Zhang suggested an ideal date to challenge Carla Esparza, worth the straw belt (up to 56,7kg). However, according to the champion, 'that's not how the band plays'. In an interview with the 'New York Post', the American said that she is in no rush to put her title on the line and reinforced that the challenger must 'get on her timeline'.

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“I definitely don't feel like I'm in a position where I should rush things just because Weili wants a certain date. I'm not trying to get on her schedule. I am the champion and I feel like she should be on my timeline,” said the champion.

By knocking out Joana Jedrzejczyk in the UFC 275, Zhang was confirmed by Dana White as the next challenger for the strawweight belt. The Chinese was already champion of the category between 2019 and 2021, having made a successful title defense. 'Magnum' scores 22 triumphs and three setbacks in the sport.

The first belt holder in the history of the category, Esparza regained the title in the UFC 274, which took place last May, by defeating Rose namajunas in the judges' split decision. At 34 years old, 'Cookie Monster' is riding on six consecutive wins in the organization and has a record of 19 triumphs and six setbacks as an MMA professional.