Tension at 115 lbs: Can Zhang Hold On?

Tension at 115: Zhang is Proven 

Without a doubt, Zhang is a proven great within 115 pounds. Only losing to Rose Namajuanas, Zhang makes it look easy. Esparza was facing a make-or-break moment in their November bout, but for Zhang it seemed like just another fight, even going to the ground with the former D1 Wrestler. Magnum is dominant, finding four finishes in the UFC, with clean boxing, but a legit submission threat as well. With all that being said, Zhang had trouble holding on to the title, and there are plenty of fresh faces that can cause her trouble. 

Tension at 115: Old and New Faces Look to Stake Their Claim

The tension at 115 comes from the fact that no one has been able to stake their claim in the division. With little news on Thug Rose, other names have had a chance at getting that title shot. Mariana Rodriguez (16-2-2) was on the cusp of a title shot but fell short to Amanda Lemos. Lemos is not in the best spot to get a title opportunity since she dropped a bout in April to Jessica Andrade, another fighter within the top five. 

Someone needs to make a statement in the new year, as it’s unclear who should be given a title shot. With the Chinese champion eyeing a second title, there may not be a lot of opportunities for that shot, within the next calendar year. 

Can Zhang Hold On? The Champion Looks to Break the Tension

While some MMA fans question if Zhang can hold her spot, Magnum looks to challenge for the 125-pound crown sooner rather than later. Zhang is another contender that adds to the volatility at 125 pounds, so who knows when the opportunity will present itself. First and foremost, Zhang needs to leave no doubt that she is the top dog at 115. That being said, the confidence of the champion is commendable, and to be fair, she matches up well to the contenders that are on her heels. 

Zhang is a true MMA fighter, being able to take the fight anywhere is something no contender for her title can do, besides Thug Rose. The power of Lemos (8-3) is probably the biggest threat. Lemos has also improved her work on the ground, but there are still holes in her game that Zhang can exploit. 

Tension at 115: The New Year Brings New Opportunity 

Regardless of matchups, there is no doubt that there is an opportunity at 115 pounds for a breakout star. Similarly, to 125 pounds, there are fighters lower down the rankings who can make an impact this year, such as Polyana Viana, a fighter coming off of a 1-minute TKO victory. MMA fans should not count anyone out in the division, as the tension in 115 begins to release. Hopefully, the younger fighters will take advantage and see the opportunity. The moves to come are something MMA fans need to keep an eye out for in the coming months.

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