This Saturday, the UFC takes its second step into the world of women's MMA. After Ronda Rousey's (7-0) thrilling victory over Liz Carmouche (8-3) on February 23rd at UFC 157, the UFC now has a defending women's champion. What it doesn't have yet is a string of contenders. The UFC women's bantamweight division is currently under construction as of this time. And while the roster may be shallow, it has become fascinating.
The co-main event of this weekend's fight card features Cat Zingano (7-0) vs. Meisha Tate (13-3). Zingano is an undefeated prospect who has finished 6 of her 7 professional opponents. She last fought for Invicta FC, where she defeated Raquel Pennington (3-1 at the time) by a rear naked choke in round 2. Her power and submission game have prevented her from ever tasting defeat. Tate is fighting for another crack at Rousey, who she lost to via armbar in March 2012. Since then, Tate earned her own armbar victory over Julie Kedzie (16-11). Her technical and relentless wrestling makes her one of the most consistently successful fighters in her division.
This fight is significant to women's MMA for a couple of reasons. For one, it is only the second women's fight in UFC history (In 2012, the UFC announced the addition of a women's bantamweight division and crowned Rousey its champion. A couple of months later, she defended it in the only female fight to take place in the organization thus far). A title shot will be granted to the victor as well. But if those two things weren't enough, the winner will also coach against Rousey for a season of The Ultimate Fighter television series. That means huge publicity, financial gains, and a Pay-Per-View main card spot for the belt. But for now, Zingano and Tate face one task: each other.
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