5 potential opponents for Jessica Andrade following her victorious return to strawweight

Jessica Andrade celebrates her win over Amanda Lemos [Image via @ufc on Instagram]

Jessica Andrade recently returned to strawweight and reminded fans that she's one of the most dangerous women in the world. This time around, she made history by securing the first standing arm triangle choke in the UFC.

That's a first!

Jessica Andrade sealed the main event with the first standing arm-triangle choke in UFC history! https://t.co/vKiCvv3x7V

She's a prolific finisher and has proven her mettle across two divisions by securing wins at both strawweight and flyweight. However, given that she's once held the belt at strawweight, it would be easier for her to make another run at the 115lb title instead of building herself back up at flyweight.

As the Brazilian continues her quest for greatness, there are few options for her next outing. Many big names reside in the strawweight division, and some great matchups could be made with Andrade's style and brute strength.

Here are five potential opponents for Jessica Andrade following her victorious return to strawweight:

#5. Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez

UFC Fight Night: Mackenzie Dern (left) vs. Marina Rodriguez

Marina Rodriguez might have been next for the title if Carla Esparza wasn't granted the title shot. Having defeated the likes of Tecia Torres, Mackenzie Dern, and Michelle Waterson, the Brazilian has a strong case for title contention.

This hit by Marina Rodriguez 🤭

#UFC257

(via @ufc)
https://t.co/7jYx2RrLkn

Inactivity is no one's friend in the UFC. Rodriguez shouldn't sit on the sidelines waiting for a shot at gold. It would behoove her to take on another challenger, and who better than a former champion?

A bout against Andrade isn't one that many are readily signing up for. She hits hard and can submit her opponents from anywhere. The fight is a tough matchup, but the value of Andrade's name would almost irrefutably grant Rodriguez her first crack at UFC gold.

If the 34-year-old could extend her win streak to five at the expense of Jessica Andrade, then it would work wonders for her career. On the flip side, Andrade putting a stop to Rodriguez's momentum would prove that she's the rightful number one contender.