UFC Vegas 97: Jessica Andrade vs. Natalia Silva: Live round-by-round updates
A women's flyweight matchup between Jessica Andrade and Natalia Silva will serve as the co-main event for UFC Vegas 97.
Andrade's (26-12) is currently on a two-fight win streak but is 2-3 in her last five.
With the quality of talent in the top five of the flyweight division, a win this weekend is a non-negotiable for Andrade if she is to build up to a title shot. 'Bate Estaca' was last seen in a split-decision win over Marina Rodriguez at UFC 300.
Silva (17-5-1), on the other hand, is on a dream run. She is undefeated in the UFC and currently on an 11-fight win streak overall. The 27-year-old was last seen in a unanimous decision win over Viviane Araujo at UFC Fight Night 235 in February.
Per the UFC's official website, Silva is a -310 favorite over Andrade (+250) for the match-up.
The main card of UFC Vegas 97 is set to kick off later this evening (Sept. 7) at 7 PM ET. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the event.
Watch the final face-off between Jessica Andrade and Natalia Silva below:
UFC Vegas 97: Jessica Andrade vs. Natalia Silva
Round 1
Silva opens up with a leg kick and follows up with a quick jab. Andrade is trying to cut off the cage and traps her opponent near the fence. Silva connects with a quick one-two to the head.
Silva seems to have the speed advantage. 'Bate Estaca' swings and misses. Andrade is having a hard time landing her power shots on her elusive opponent.
The former strawweight queen connects with a right hook, momentarily stunning Silva. Another left hook dazes Silva and she employs a quick side kick which sends Andrade to the canvas.
'Bate Estaca' quickly gets back to the feet and forces her opponent once again to the cage wall. Silva might risk getting hit with some debilitating power shots if she doesn't stop from backing up to the fence.
Andrade finishes the round connecting a Superman punch on her opponent.
Our score: 10-9 Silva
Round 2
Andrade is constantly putting pressure on her opponent forcing Silva to fight on the backfoot. 'Bate Estaca' shoots for a level change, but Silva defends it. Silva connects with a knee strike to the head in the Thai clinch.
Andrade tries to level change once more but is again unsuccessful in completing it. After connecting with a right hand, Andrade once again attempts a takedown without success.
Silva connects with a quick right hand. The punch seems to have hurt Andrade. 'Bate Estaca' tries to push the pace but is getting countered by Silva with quick jabs. A right hand followed by a side kick to the head lands for Silva.
Andrade goes head hunting and finishes the round landing a few power shots on Silva.
Our score: 10-9 Silva
Round 3
Silva's speed and footwork seem to have effectively neutralized Andrade's power. The former strawweight queen is finding it hard to get into range. The jab is money for Silva, she has barely missed a single one tonight.
Silva hits Andrade with a flashy spinning heel kick. 'Bate Estaca' seems to have no answer for the fast opponent. As she tries to close the distance, Andrade gets stung with a front kick to the face.
'Bate Estaca' is still in the fight and is looking to land a haymaker. However, she is getting out landed every time they engage in a prolonged back and forth. A big left hand lads for Andrade.
Silva is peppering her opponents with quick jabs and blistering fast kicks.
Our score: 10-9 Silva
Stay tuned for the official decision.
Official decision: Natalia Silva def. Jessica Andrade via unanimous decision. (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Check out the official decision below: