Fatima Kline dominates Tabatha Ricci at UFC Oklahoma City

The UFC Oklahoma City main card featured a women’s strawweight bout between contenders Tabatha Ricci and Fatima Kline.

Ricci entered the match ranked No. 8 in the division and looking to rebound from a decision loss to No. 2 ranked Virna Jandiroba. Kline made the walk to the octagon inside Paycom Center riding a three-fight winning streak and ranked No.11. “The Archangel” was hoping to pick up the biggest win of her career and climb in the rankings.

Ricci came out aggressive. She crossed the cage and pressured Kline. Ricco moved into the pocket with punches and looked for a takedown. Kline shook off the attempt. Ricci clinched and tossed Kline but Kline gained top position on the ground. Ricci got to her feet but was slammed back to the canvas. Ricci worked her way to her feet and the two separated. Kline changed levels and took Ricci down with a double-leg. Ricci got to her feet in the closing seconds. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Kline.

Ricci took the center of the cage in the second. She pressed forward but Kline met her with punches. Ricci ducked under a kick and worked for a takedown. Kline immediately scrambled to her feet. Ricci looked for another takedown but Kline defended it and gained top position. Ricci rose to her feet and circled away. Midway through the frame, they exchanged right hands. Kline defended another takedown attempt. Ricci connected with a combination. Kline fired back. Ricci clinched but couldn’t get Kline down. Kline tripped Ricci to the ground and took her back. She looked for a rear-naked choke in the closing seconds. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Kline.

Kline took the center of the cage and landed a right hand to start the final frame. She connected with a heavy right hand. Ricci continued to press forward. Kline suplexed Ricci to the ground. Ricci got back to her feet and the two exchanged right hands. Kline found a home with a clean right hand. Kline began landing regularly. Ricci fought back but was outclassed. Ricci secured a takedown with just under a minute remaining on the clock. Kline scrambled free and reversed the position. She mounted Ricci at the bell. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Kline.

The judges scored the fight for Kline via. unanimous decision. All three scorecards read 30-27.

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