- George Chung
- Sep 3, 2024
- 3 min read
Jessica Andrade is undoubtedly one of the most dominant and versatile fighters in UFC history. With a stunning 17 wins under her belt, Andrade holds the record for the most victories by any female fighter in the UFC, and her career is packed with jaw-dropping moments that will go down in the annals of mixed martial arts. Known for her relentless pressure, devastating power, and a fearless attitude inside the cage, Andrade has faced and beaten some of the most renowned names in the sport.
As she gears up to face the rising Brazilian star Natalia Silva at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady, it’s the perfect time to revisit five of Andrade’s most unforgettable fights. These battles not only showcase her versatility and heart but also solidify her as one of the most exciting fighters to watch. Let’s dive into the top 5 fights of Jessica Andrade's career:
1. Jessica Andrade vs. Rose Namajunas (UFC 237)
The Slam That Shook the Strawweight Division
When Andrade stepped into the Octagon at UFC 237 to face then-champion Rose Namajunas, she was up against one of the most technical fighters in the UFC. Namajunas, fresh off back-to-back wins against former strawweight queen Joanna Jedrzejczyk, was seen as the favorite. However, Andrade, as always, showed no fear.
In the second round, after a challenging first round, Andrade’s persistence paid off. She lifted Namajunas off the ground in a clinch, delivering a brutal slam that knocked the champion out cold. This spectacular knockout earned Andrade the UFC strawweight belt and forever etched her name in UFC history.
2. Jessica Andrade vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz (UFC 228)
A Statement Knockout That Sealed a Title Shot
Andrade’s path to UFC gold was paved with dramatic victories, and none was more decisive than her fight against former title challenger Karolina Kowalkiewicz. Andrade made a statement just two minutes into the first round when she landed a thunderous right hand that sent Kowalkiewicz crashing to the mat. The knockout was so clean and devastating that it instantly propelled Andrade into title contention. Earning “Performance of the Night,” this knockout left no doubt that Andrade was next in line for a shot at the championship.
3. Jessica Andrade vs. Mackenzie Dern (UFC Fight Night 213)
Dominating a Grappling Specialist
In November 2023, Andrade faced one of the division’s most dangerous submission specialists, Mackenzie Dern. Known for her elite grappling skills, Dern was expected to be a tough challenge, but Andrade’s aggressive style and excellent takedown defense turned the tide in her favor.
Andrade neutralized Dern’s grappling, stuffing multiple takedown attempts, and unleashed her trademark pressure and power. By the second round, Andrade had knocked Dern down three times, forcing the referee to stop the fight. It was a brutal display of Andrade’s striking ability and an important win that reminded the world of her elite skill set.
4. Jessica Andrade vs. Amanda Lemos (UFC Fight Night 205)
A Masterclass in Submission
After a brief stint in the flyweight division, Andrade returned to strawweight to take on Amanda Lemos in a highly anticipated matchup. Fans expected a striking battle, given both fighters’ knockout power, but Andrade showed her versatility by finishing the fight with a rare standing arm-triangle choke.
In just three minutes, Andrade clinched Lemos against the cage, quickly locking in the submission that led to a tap. The submission not only showcased Andrade’s grappling prowess but also made her the first fighter in UFC history to win via standing arm-triangle choke, solidifying her legacy as a multi-dimensional threat inside the Octagon.
5. Jessica Andrade vs. Katlyn Chookagian (UFC Fight Night 180)
A Body Shot That Echoed Through the Flyweight Division
In her first bout in the flyweight division, Andrade faced a daunting challenge in Katlyn Chookagian, who was the No. 1 contender at the time. Despite the height and reach disadvantage, Andrade's aggression and body shots proved to be too much for Chookagian to handle.
In the final moments of the first round, Andrade landed a vicious right hook to Chookagian’s body that immediately had her retreating across the cage. Sensing the end, Andrade followed up with another crushing body shot that forced the stoppage, cementing her arrival in the 125-pound division as a serious contender.
What’s Next for Andrade?
As Andrade prepares to face Natalia Silva at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady, fans are eager to see if she can add another epic moment to her already illustrious career. Silva, riding an 11-fight win streak, will pose a significant challenge, but with Andrade’s wealth of experience and unyielding determination, expect fireworks when these two Brazilians collide.
Don't miss out on UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady, streaming live on ESPN+ this Saturday!
