Vancouver-based strawweight fighter, Lupita Godinez, achieved a split decision victory over Tabitha Ricci at UFC 295 in New York.
With the judges scoring the fight 27-30, 29-28, 29-28 in favor of Godinez, she becomes the first female UFC fighter to secure four wins in a single calendar year.
Mexico's Loopy Godinez is the first woman in UFC history to earn four victories in a calendar year. pic.twitter.com/3nsb2FB5lS
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) November 12, 2023
“It was a tough fight. I knew it was close, for sure … I thought I won,” said Godinez, who also fought in April, May and September.
Going into the bout, Ricci held the 10th ranking among strawweight contenders, while Godinez was ranked 13th.
This momentous win adds to Godinez’s impressive track record in the UFC.
Having made her debut in April 2021, she has now secured four consecutive victories, bringing her overall UFC record to 7 wins and 3 losses.
On the other hand, Ricci had her four-fight win streak cut short in this closely contested match.
Throughout the fight, Godinez showcased her striking prowess, landing an impressive 98 significant strikes compared to Ricci’s 84, as reported by UFC Stats.
She successfully defended against all six takedown attempts made by Ricci, preferring to keep the fight standing.
The first round saw both fighters exchanging strikes, with Godinez effectively fending off Ricci’s takedown attempt.
Godinez gained the upper hand, knocking Ricci down with a powerful blow to the head. However, in a surprising turn of events, Ricci managed to drop Godinez with a well-timed jab as the round came to a close.
The second round continued in a similar fashion, with Godinez ending up on her back after losing her balance.
Ricci pressed forward in the third round, resulting in a brief clinch at the fence. Godinez’s nose showed signs of damage, but she remained resilient.
Born in Aguascalientes, Mexico, Godinez relocated to Vancouver with her family at the age of 12.
Her victory at UFC 295 exemplifies her determination and skill as she continues to make a name for herself in the strawweight division.
