Last night the UFC announced that Rose Namajunas vs Karolina Kowalkiewicz has been added to UFC 201 July 30 at the Phillips Arena in Atlanta. They haven't announced the match order for this show. But I would not be surprised to see this fight headline the prelims that will air on Fox Sports 1 in the US and on TSN in Canada. It could also air on the main card on PPV. This fight could set up a future UFC Strawweight Championship contender. Rose got a big win when she beat Tecia Torres in April. Afterwards, she said she wanted to take a break. This fight clearly changed that plan. Though she is undefeated, I believe Karolina is overrated because she's a points fighter and that will catch up to her. So if I am Rose's trainer Trevor Wittman, I would tell Rose that Karolina is undefeated but beatable. And a win over an undefeated fighter will launch Rose into title contention. Karolina is a very good striker. But she has no power so she doesn't finish. I've been watching her since her KSW days and she doesn't go to the ground either. Six of her nine wins have been by decision. So even when she was facing lesser opponents in KSW, she doesn't finish fights. Against a higher competition level, that's a big flaw. And Rose is a big step up in competition for Karolina. Rose was already a good fighter when she moved to Colorado to train with Wittman. He has really helped calm her down and he has also improved her striking technique. And she likes to finish fights. As she did with Tecia, Rose may want to keep her distance so Karolina can't land any punches. I don't think Karolina is quicker than Tecia so Rose could try to get inside for a takedown. Contrast in styles make for interesting fights. And this fight has title implications.
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