If you were awake Saturday morning in America, you were treated to UFC Fight Night 52. Live from Japan, the card boasted a pretty deep card, including a vital women’s bout between Miesha Tate and Rin Nakai.
It was a bout that was filled with failed takedown attempts and lots of clinch work. Tate was vastly superior on the feet, completely outclassing Nakai with her hands and feet.
When it was all said and done, Tate grabbed a clear-cut unanimous decision over Nakai. She showed some improvements in her game, indicating she is evolving.
What’s next for Tate? Let’s take a look at three opponents she could face going forward.
Sarah Kaufman
Tate and Sarah Kaufman have squared off before in 2009. In that fight, Kaufman took a unanimous decision over Tate in a three-minute, three-round bout.
It’s time for the rematch.
Both women are different fighters from the first fight. They have both improved and contributed further to their well-rounded games.
Not only that, but they are both in the top 10. All those things considered, this could be the best match going forward for both.
Sara McMann
Tate is a wrestler. Sara McMann is a wrestler. This could be a match made in heaven.
McMann obviously has a superior pedigree in the wrestling department, but things are different in MMA. Tate has solid takedown defense, which could make this a test of both women’s striking.
Both women are also in the top five at 135. They have proven to be superior among the women in the UFC and this bout could push a woman closer to a title rematch.
It could be a good one.
Alexis Davis
Coming off a quick title loss, Alexis Davis has a lot to prove. Who better to pro that you are still worthwhile than one of the golden girls of the division in Tate?
Tate’s wrestling would be an interesting contrast with Davis’ jiu-jitsu. If this fight went to the ground, it would be an awesome chess match of technical beauty.
On the feet, they have a similar skill level, though Davis uses more kicks in contrast to Tate’s punching preference.
Overall, this is a matchup that is desirable to see. It’s surprising it hasn’t happened already, to be honest.
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com