Why Jedrzejczyk vs Waterson Is So Important

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On Wednesday, sources confirmed that Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs Michelle Waterson would headline UFC Fight Night on October 12th. With it, two of the most electric females in MMA will go toe-to-toe in an opportunity to climb up the Women’s Strawweight division.

However, this is more than another fight on another card.

For Joanna Jedrzejczyk, she is ranked #4 in the division. Three of her last four fights have ended in defeat; two at the hands of former Champion Rose Namajunas.

Another loss would drastically change the Polish fighter’s legacy. Viewed as one of the best female fighters in MMA history, Jedrzejczyk has looked somewhat dazed since getting hit by the spotlight.

However, a dominant win would change the narrative entirely. Jedrzejczyk previously defeated the current Strawweight Champion, Jessica Andrade, in May of 2017 by unanimous decision. While a victory likely wouldn’t place Jedrzejczyk in a title fight, it puts her that much closer.

As for Michelle Waterson, her story has been inspiring to moms around the world. Currently ranked #4 in the division, Waterson has a real opportunity to make a name for herself in October.

A loss for Waterson would only prove that she often struggles to shine in the brightest of moments. With loses to #1 Rose Namajunas and #8 Tecia Torres on her record, this would only set Waterson’s hopes of a title fight that much further back.

On the contrary, this is a major opportunity for Waterson. Despite Jedrzejczyk’s struggles as of late, she is still a powerhouse name in the UFC. A victory for Waterson could potentially launch her into the conversation as the next challenger to Andrade. While it seems like a long shot, ‘The Karate Hottie’ has been tearing through her competition.

Regardless of who you root for, this fight has the potential to shape out the near future for the Women’s Strawweight division. Both Jedrzejczyk and Waterson have a lot to gain in this bout, but a lot more to lose.

Featured Image: MMA Mania