The forthcoming preliminary clash in women’s strawweight division will feature competitors Carla Esparza and Tecia Pennington. The showdown is set to be held in Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. Spectators can expect the pair to walk out for their fight at 00:05am UK time, 7:05pm ET, and 4:05pm PT.
Carla Esparza (19-7), the veteran fighter, is stepping back into the Octagon after nearly a two-year respite due to motherhood. She has declared this fight as her swansong, marking the end of a distinguished career before she retires her gloves for good.
Her last appearance in the UFC was at UFC 281 in November 2022, where she surrendered her women’s strawweight championship title to Zhang Weili. This defeat marked an end to her impressive six-match victory streak, including her title-winning clash against Rose Namajunas.
After a two-year break of her own because of motherhood, Tecia Pennington re-emerged in the UFC in May 2024. Unfortunately, she faltered in her return match against Tabatha Ricci, losing by decision. This second straight decision loss came on the heels of a string of three victories, so she is undoubtedly eager to re-enter the victory column in the upcoming fight.
Both Esparza and Pennington have had extended absences from the sport due to new motherhood and now they prepare to face each other in the Octagon. This encounter carries added significance as it will serve as Carla Esparza’s farewell fight.
Esparza’s legacy in the UFC provides an intriguing backdrop as she is a former two-time strawweight champion. Known for her competitive spirit, she is likely aiming to sign off her career on a high. Pennington, however, is far from an easy opponent and will not be overshadowed in this bout.
No one can question Pennington’s fortitude, having demonstrated remarkable resilience in her career. Out of her last ten fights, nine were decided by the scorecards while the sole exception was concluded by a doctor’s stoppage. A total of 18 of Pennington’s professional MMA bouts have seen the full distance, a testament to her endurance.
Given Pennington’s record of tough-fought battles that often go the distance, she is well prepared to give Esparza a challenging send-off. The main question in this fight centres around Esparza’s potential rustiness due to her two-year hiatus. Given Pennington’s recent ring experience, this could tip the scales in her favor.
Esparza’s condition post her break, both mental and physical, will heavily influence the dynamic of this fight. Pennington has had a recent bout under her belt since her comeback, which appears to provide her with a slight advantage.