The UFC strawweight roster has added a new face to the division, and it’s a very familiar one.
Ariel Helwani on UFC Tonight reported that former Invicta Atomweight Champion Michelle Waterson has signed with the UFC to compete in their 115-pound division. It’s a welcome addition to a competitive division, as Waterson can add even more star power to that division.
At 12-4, Waterson was a premier atomweight in the world, owning an impressive resume in fighting in and out of Invicta. She achieved championship status by taking the belt from now-UFC fighter Jessica Penne, defended it against Yasuko Tamada and eventually lost it to now-champ Herica Tiburcio.
Waterson, known as “The Karate Hottie,” is known for her technical striking and underrated ground game. What will obviously help her in the UFC is her undeniable looks, something that the UFC seems to push through the roof, as seen in women like Paige VanZant.
Training out of Jackson-Winklejohn MMA, Waterson works with one of the best gyms in the world, especially when it comes to female talent. She trains with some top fighters on a daily basis, which should prepare her well for this UFC stint.
Looking forward into her tenure, Waterson enters a fray of fighters who have proven to be ultra tough and competitive. From champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk to unheralded contender Maryna Moroz to out-of-nowhere success Randa Markos, Waterson will not face any easy fights.
Her size may be an issue going forward, or the lack of having to cut an extra 10 pounds could benefit her. She has great movement on the feet, is lightning-quick and has underrated power for a person of her size.
Former atomweights who have moved to the UFC’s strawweight division have seen mixed results. While Penne has seen some success, fighters like Alex Chambers and Lisa Ellis are still looking to find their footing in the division.
Waterson has yet to have an opponent named or a debut date set with the UFC. However, there is no doubt that fans anxiously await the debut of “The Karate Hottie.”
For more updates, stay with Bleacher Report as more details become available.
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