Tomorrow night in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 31, we will see the return of one of the pioneer’s of women’s MMA. Former bantamweight champion Miesha Tate (18-7) makes her highly anticipated return as she takes on Marion Reneau (9-7-1).
Before talking about Tate, let’s take a look at her opponent tomorrow night. “The Belizean Bruiser” will be making the walk for the final time at UFC Vegas 31. Reneau will have her son in her corner for her retirement fight.
The 44 year old has lost four fights in a row, but she has still remained competitive for the most part. Reneau made her UFC debut all the way back in 2015. She’s been in there with the likes of Holly Holm, Sara McMann, Raquel Pennington, and Cat Zingano.
It’s been quite the ride for Reneau as she’s gone 5-7-1 in her thirteen octagon appearances. While she’s exiting tomorrow night, Miesha Tate is returning. The former Strikeforce and UFC bantamweight champion is back after retiring in 2016.
Tate walked away after losing her second straight at UFC 205. However, Tate was only 29 years old and her walking away was more about mental fatigue. Since then, she’s become a mother of her own and she’s found that competitive fire again. Physically, she looks better than ever and she’s ready to make a statement.
UFC Vegas 31 Prediction
I’m incredibly interested to see how both of these ladies look tomorrow night at UFC Vegas 31. Marion Reneau has lost four in a row, but she’s been incredibly active. In addition to her activity, Reneau can straight up crack on the feet.
When Miesha Tate was at the top of her game, she was one of the best in the world. Tate became the UFC champion with a sensational submission win over Holly Holm and when she exited the sport, she was only two fights removed from that one.
I expect a bit of a slower pace to start as this is a huge fight for both women. I do believe Tate will be able to use her wrestling a lot in this fight. I’ll be watching the cardio of both women. This fight will go the distance and I do expect Reneau to have her moments. However, Tate’s wrestling should get her the win in her return.
Prediction: Miesha Tate by Unanimous Decision