Amanda Lemos showcased her impressive striking abilities and ability to defend against submissions during her 15-minute bout with Mackenzie Dern. The women’s strawweight fight concluded the preliminary card of UFC 298 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California, and provided an exciting battle with both fighters having their moments. Ultimately, Lemos emerged victorious with unanimous scores of 29-28 from each judge, overcoming a resilient Dern.
Lemos established dominance early on with powerful kicks, targeting both the legs and body of her opponent. The damage inflicted on Dern’s left lower leg became evident in the first round. However, before it could become a significant liability, Dern executed a well-executed takedown, bringing the fight to her preferred ground game. On the mat, Dern displayed her grappling skills, attempting submissions while landing a few strikes.
During the break between rounds, Dern’s corner neglected to apply ice to her injured shin, as noted by commentator Joe Rogan. Undeterred, Lemos continued to find success in open space during the second round, utilizing precise and powerful strikes. Her accurate punches forced Dern into a vulnerable position, causing her to fall to the canvas while protecting her face. Referee Mike Beltran contemplated stopping the fight but allowed it to continue. Lemos pursued Dern to the ground, where the pace slowed. However, once they returned to a standing position, Lemos resumed her assault with punishing leg kicks and rapid punches.
Despite the adversity, Dern pressed forward, displaying her determination. Although her attempted takedown was reversed, she managed to execute a sweep and gain top position in the closing seconds of the round.
Both fighters embraced before entering the final round, where Dern connected with a powerful right hand. However, Lemos responded with a takedown of her own. From the bottom, Dern initiated a leg lock, eventually using it to secure top position. Although Lemos temporarily relinquished control, she quickly scrambled back to the top and landed a few punches before the final bell.
In a hard-fought battle from beginning to end, Amanda Lemos emerged victorious by unanimous decision at UFC 298, placing herself back in contention for a title shot.
With all three judges scoring the fight in her favor, 36-year-old Lemos returns to the win column after defeating a short-notice replacement. Originally scheduled to face Tatiana Suarez, Lemos adapted to the change when Suarez withdrew due to injury.
On the other hand, 30-year-old Dern, despite fighting with the support of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg watching ringside, suffered her second consecutive defeat.
The latest results from UFC 298 include:
According to the Source mmajunkie.usatoday.com