It’s fair to say that Cat Zingano didn’t put on the performance of her career at UFC 184. Hurling herself at Ronda Rousey from the opening bell was a novel strategy, but it turned out to be as effective as all the rest. That is to say, not remotely effective.
Within seconds, the challenger was tied up in the kind of knot that would have left a sailor confused.
Prior to the fight, I had the bizarre notion that Zingano possessed the kind of stubborn personality that would refuse to submit to joint locks. This notion was soon dispelled, of course. And while one couldn’t help but be in awe of Rousey, my eyes were drawn to the crestfallen challenger who had overcome so much adversity to get that opportunity.
Understandably, she was inconsolable. Being submitted in all of 14 seconds doesn’t exactly suggest potential for a rematch. However, the good news for Zingano is that the UFC is starved for options, which means the path to a rematch is much shorter than it could have been.
So let’s take a look at where Zingano’s path to a rematch might begin.