Zhang Weili to Make First Defence of Her Title vs. Amanda Lemos

Zhang Weili to Make First Defence of Her Title vs. Amanda Lemos

May 17, 2023|
3

It has just been announced that the UFC Women's Strawweight Champion Zhang Weili is back, and she's making the first defense of her second title reign against Amanda Lemos at UFC 292, per Dana White.

This five-round title fight takes place in the Women's Strawweight (115 lbs) division.

Zhang Weili holds a professional record of 23-3 (7-2 UFC) and is the Champion of the Women's Strawweight division. She holds notable victories over Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Carla Esparza, and Jéssica Andrade.

Amanda Lemos is ranked #4 in the Women's Strawweight division and holds a professional record of 13-2-1 (7-2 UFC). She holds credible wins over Michelle Waterson-Gomez, Angela Hill, and Marina Rodriguez.

Official odds have yet to be released.

Zhang Weili is coming off a performance of a lifetime at UFC 281. In 2021, Weili suffered a devastating KO loss to Rose Namajunas and then lost again to Namajunas via a split decision. But, in 2022, she rebounded with a spinning back fist KO against Joanna Jędrzejczyk before challenging once again for the title. She dominated Carla Esparza before submitting her in the second round to reclaim her throne. She will look to use her powerful striking and wrestling to get the victory against Amanda Lemos.

Zhang Weili dominating Carla Esparza before her second round submission at UFC 281. Credits to: Jessica Alcheh - USA TODAY Sports.
Zhang Weili dominating Carla Esparza before her second round submission at UFC 281. Credits to: Jessica Alcheh - USA TODAY Sports.

Amanda Lemos is currently riding a tremendous two-fight win streak in the division. After losing to Jessica Andrade in her first UFC main event, she rebounded with a second-round submission against Michelle Waterson-Gomez and then brought her main event record to 1-1 when she TKOed Marina Rodriguez in the third round. Amanda Lemos possesses some of the best strikings in the division and has the power to accompany it, and she'll be looking to use her entire arsenal when she challenges for her first UFC world title.

Amanda Lemos and Marina Rodriguez throwing down in their main event spotlight. Credits to: Chris Unger - Zuffa LLC.
Amanda Lemos and Marina Rodriguez throwing down in their main event spotlight. Credits to: Chris Unger - Zuffa LLC.

How do you see this one playing out? Will the Chinese superstar continue her dominance? Or will the Brazillian claim a title in her first attempt? Either way, as a member of the Verdict Community, let us know your prediction in the comments below.

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