Amanda Lemos staked her claim for a shot at the strawweight title in the main event of UFC Vegas 64, knocking out the durable Marina Rodriguez.
Amanda Lemos burst onto the scene with impressive finishing ability with six wins and four stoppages in her last seven fights. She looked to continue that streak in the UFC Vegas 64 main event against Marina Rodriguez. Rodriguez was on an impressive four-fight win streak of her own heading into the contest.
Lemos started the fight with a kick up high as she looked to control where the fight was taking place. Simultaneous kicks led to Lemos slipping momentarily. Back on the feet, Lemos threw a leg kick to keep Rodriguez at bay. The strikes were few and far between from both fighters in the first round as both fighters were finding their range, swinging heavy leather every so often. At the end of the round, Lemos attempted a takedown but failed to follow through and ended up on her back with Rodriguez in mount briefly. Lemos scrambled and got to her feet as the bell sounded.
A counter right hand connected cleanly for Lemos to start the second round, the cleanest punch of the fight thus far. A clinch exchange was initiated by Lemos, who then landed a clean trip to take the back of Rodriguez. A rear-naked choke was nearly sunk in, but Rodriguez stayed out of trouble and forced Lemos to take half guard. Lemos rode out the round in top position.
Rodriguez went to the jab to start the third round and Lemos answered with a hook and a jab of her own. A big haymaker then stunned Rodriguez. Lemos followed up with another big shot with a left hand to back Rodriguez up to the fence. A few more punches snuck through to earn the stoppage.
Amanda Lemos def. Marina Rodriguez by TKO (Punches) in Round 3 (0:54)
