Tomorrow night in the co-main event of Bellator 289, we are going to see a rematch for the women’s flyweight championship. The champion Liz Carmouche (17-7) looks to defend her title for the first time as she takes on former champion Juliana Velasquez (12-1).
Carmouche has been sensational since making the jump over to Bellator. She went a perfect 3-0 leading up to her flyweight title shot against Velasquez. The two were having a very competitive fight and then in the fourth round, Carmouche got Velasquez in a crucifix.
While she wasn’t doing a ton of damage but the referee stopped the fight and she got the TKO win. Juliana Velasquez was not thrilled with the decision to stop the fight and immediately protested. Bellator officials agreed and that is why we are getting this immediate rematch.
Bellator 289 Prediction
I think that these two ladies are very evenly matched. When it comes to pure technique and skill, I like the former champion in this spot. Velasquez has cleaner technique and is just a more well-rounded fighter. However, the raw strength advantage definitely goes to Carmouche.
Carmouche has shown that she can bother Velasquez with power striking and if she gets on top, it’s hard for Velasquez to get out. That is what led to her win the first time around. However, I think the rematch at Bellator 289 is going to be more about technique and for that reason, I like Velasquez to get the win.
Prediction: Juliana Velasquez by Decision