This past weekend in the main event of UFC Vegas 55, we saw a potential title eliminator in the women’s bantamweight division. Former bantamweight champion Holly Holm (14-6) was making her return against Brazil’s Ketlen Vieira (13-2).
Holm was coming off of an incredible win over Irene Aldana. Vieira was coming off of a win against Miesha Tate. Vieira was looking to pick up her second straight win over a former UFC bantamweight champion.
In the first round of the fight, Holm was very effective. She was able to use her kicks, speed, and grappling to get the edge on Vieira. All three judges gave the first round to Holm. In the second round, Vieira started landing solid shots and almost finished the former UFC champion with a standing rear naked choke.
However, Holm gutted it out. Throughout the next couple of rounds, Holm seemed to be landing more strikes, but Vieira was landing harder shots. Entering the final round, many thought the fight was tied up.
In the final round at UFC Vegas 55, Holly Holm seemed to be more effective landing shots and gaining clinch control. After the final bell sounded, most people thought Holm won the fight. However, when the scores were read, two of the three judges gave the fight and the massive win to Ketlen Vieira.
What’s next after UFC Vegas 55?
Whether you agree with the judges or not, it goes in the books as a win for Ketlen Vieira. She now has back-to-back wins over former UFC champions and she’s put herself in an excellent position in the bantamweight division.
On July 30th at UFC 277, Julianna Pena and Amanda Nunes will rematch for the bantamweight title. Ketlen Vieira is going to be watching that fight closely as she’s likely going to be next for the winner.
A few years ago, Vieira seemed destined for a UFC title shot. However, injuries and a couple of losses made her reset her career. Now, she’s looking as sharp as ever and she’s just won the two biggest fights of her career.
Considering the landscape of 135 pounds, there’s only one fight for Vieira next and that’s a fight for the title.