Issue 150

January 2017

MIESHA TATE - FORMER WOMEN'S 135LB CHAMPION

I feel like there’s so many weird variables. If we get Ronda at the best she’s ever been, then I’d say Ronda. But if we’re getting Ronda with a half-assed mentality, she’s got a lot of ring rust and maybe she’s still punch-shy. We all saw that Amanda has incredible power with her right hand.

If she hits Ronda with one of those, I could see it being a huge problem. I really just don’t know what we’re going to get with Ronda. I know what we’re going to get with Amanda.

PICKING: AMANDA NUNES

ANDY RYAN - RYANO MMA HEAD COACH

At this elite level it’s mostly mental, so it will come down to how Ronda has regrouped in the year she’s been away and how Nunes copes with the situation. I don’t think Nunes will get intimidated or allow herself to be bullied. Rousey has to implement her judo. If she can close the distance, get Nunes down and go for that armbar then she’s got the right game plan. If I had to call it I’ll go with Nunes.

She’s so well-rounded and the fight has come at the right time for her – and too soon for Rousey.

PICKING: AMANDA NUNES

BRAD PICKETT - UFC BANTAMWEIGHT

Ronda is really good when she can be the bully, but she can’t bully Amanda. They’re both fast starters too, so Ronda won’t have an early edge. Similar to the Holly Holm fight, Amanda is streets ahead of Rousey in the standup. She hits a lot harder.

Ronda will have to have improved greatly to stand up with Amanda. Her edge is obviously the ground game. Amanda isn’t a BJJ black belt, but she is very strong. I’ve seen men quit on the mats with her so she won’t be afraid of going down there.

PICKING: AMANDA NUNES

WINNER: AMANDA NUNES BY UNANIMOUS DECISION

All three judges believe ‘The Lioness’ will make it a very unwelcome return for her challenger.