For full highlights of Namajunas' submission over VanZant CLICK HERE.
Following a devastating submission loss to No. 3-ranked women's strawweight contender Rose Namajunas at UFC Fight Night 80 last night (Thurs., Dec. 10, 2015), Paige VanZant was a bit shook up by what transpired in their main event inside "The Chelsea" at Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Check out the video highlight here.
From the opening bell, "12 Gauge" had no answer for the onslaught "Thug Rose" was about to put forth on the feet and in the grappling exchanges. Namajunas was clearly the more experienced fighter, despite competing in less professional bouts than VanZant.
The Wisconsin native routinely beat VanZant to the punch and took her down frequently, while winning the ground battle by smothering her opponent and constantly improving positions.
It marked the first time the up-and-coming star VanZant had tasted defeat under the ZUFFA banner.
From the UFC Vegas post-fight press conference (via MMA Fighting):
"I definitely have the heart, I have the aggression. I don't have the technique yet and I think everyone has known that. I got outclassed in every way. So just get back with my team and game plan and work on my technique. ... I just wasn't prepared for that fight. I'm just new, ya know? I've got a lot to learn. Just working with my team. I'm trying not to cry, guys."
She definitely proved she can take a lickin' and keep on tickin'.
At 21 years old, there's not many mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters who can say they've headlined a UFC event. VanZant can easily make up for the loss with an impressive win, or stoppage, in her next bout.
The 115-pound division is chalk full of prospects looking to make a name, so it's not as if the Team Alpha Male fighter lost any ground.
She's got a great camp and, from what it seems like, a great coaching staff and head on her shoulders.
For complete coverage of the entire UFC Fight Night 80: "Namajunas vs. VanZant" card, including post-fight recaps and analysis, click here.