What's Next for Rose Namajunas? 3 Thrilling Potential Opponents to Watch!15 days ago
Rose Namajunas' loss to Erin Blanchfield at UFC Edmonton marked a turning point in her career, but the former champion is far from finished. With a sharp, technical striking style and grappling skills, Namajunas remains a top contender in the flyweight division. So, what's next for "Thug" Rose? Here are three intriguing matchups that could reignite her path to title contention.

1. Katlyn Chookagian

Chookagian’s height and reach advantage make her a tough puzzle for Namajunas to solve, but if Rose can close the distance and use her striking precision, this could be a tactical battle that might go the distance. Here’s a look at Chookagian’s last five fights:

* Loss to Maycee Barber - UFC 299 (March 9, 2024): Chookagian lost via unanimous decision in a competitive striking battle where Barber’s aggression edged out the decision.
* Loss to Manon Fiorot - UFC 280 (October 22, 2022): Chookagian was outstruck in a catchweight bout, resulting in a unanimous decision loss.
* Win over Amanda Ribas - UFC on ESPN: Błachowicz vs. Rakić (May 14, 2022): Chookagian won via split decision in a back-and-forth striking affair.
* Win over Jennifer Maia - UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs. Chikadze (January 15, 2022): Chookagian controlled the fight with volume striking and footwork for a unanimous decision victory.
* Win over Viviane Araújo - UFC 262 (May 15, 2021): Chookagian dominated with her range and striking for another unanimous decision win.

Chookagian’s Flyweight Ranking: #7

2. Jéssica Andrade

Andrade’s relentless pressure and power striking would put Namajunas’ distance control to the test. This fight promises fireworks, as Namajunas would need to avoid Andrade’s power while looking to dominate with her own striking and grappling. Here’s a look at Andrade’s last five fights:

* Loss to Natália Silva - UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady (September 7, 2024): Andrade lost by unanimous decision in a striking-heavy battle in the flyweight division.
* Win over Marina Rodriguez - UFC 300 (April 13, 2024): Andrade claimed a split decision victory in a back-and-forth battle.
* Win over Mackenzie Dern - UFC 295 (November 11, 2023): Andrade won by TKO (punches) in the second round, earning a Performance of the Night bonus.
* Loss to Tatiana Suarez - UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Font (August 5, 2023): Andrade was submitted by guillotine choke in the second round.
* Loss to Yan Xiaonan - UFC 288 (May 6, 2023): Andrade suffered a first-round KO from a powerful punch.

Andrade’s Flyweight Ranking: #8

3. Jasmine Jasudavicius

Jasudavicius has shown impressive grappling skills, but Namajunas’ experience and elusive striking could make her the more dangerous fighter in this matchup. This fight would be a true test of adaptability, with Namajunas aiming to keep Jasudavicius at bay. Here’s a look at Jasudavicius’ last five fights:

* Win over Ariane da Silva – UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi (November 2, 2024): Jasudavicius won via submission (brabo choke) in the third round, earning Performance of the Night honors.
* Win over Fatima Kline – UFC on ESPN: Namajunas vs. Cortez (July 13, 2024): Jasudavicius won by unanimous decision after three rounds of striking and control.
* Win over Priscila Cachoeira – UFC 297 (January 20, 2024): Jasudavicius earned a submission win in the third round.
* Loss to Tracy Cortez – UFC Fight Night: Grasso vs. Shevchenko 2 (September 16, 2023): Jasudavicius lost by unanimous decision in a bout where Cortez’ pressure dominated.
* Win over Miranda Maverick – UFC 289 (June 10, 2023): Jasudavicius defeated Maverick by unanimous decision with her volume striking and clinch control.

Jasudavicius’ Flyweight Ranking: #13