Women’s MMA pioneer Roxanne Modafferi continues her quest for greatness and gold.On its Facebook page, Fusion Fight League announced that Modafferi will take on Priscilla Souza for its Pro Women’s 125 title in the main event of its “Ladies Fight Night” event, which sounds like it will be an all women's MMA card, scheduled for April 1 at the MetraPark Arena in Billings, Montana.
This is a pretty good get for Fusion Fight League as Modafferi is one of the most decorated and beloved women's MMA fighters in the world who has competed in numerous organizations, including the UFC, Strikeforce and Jewels.
A Warrior’s Transformation and Invicta Run
Modafferi, whose career dates back to 2003, has undergone a career resurgence in the last few years. She came to Invicta Fighting Championships in 2014 riding a six-fight losing streak, including but her relocating to Syndicate MMA for her fight camp proved beneficial. She’s won four of her last six fights - defeating Tara LaRosa in their trilogy fight, upsetting Andrea Lee, finishing Mariana Morais and earning a split-decision over DeAnna Bennett.
Her only two losses were to Vanessa Porto and Jennifer Maia - both were decisions with the latter being a title fight. Despite the losses, Modafferi has shown a complete change in her overall fight game. She’s kind of like Pokemon’s Ash Ketchum and Dragon Ball's Goku - she may not win every battle, but she gives it her best and has the will to continue her progress.
Pricilla De Souza - a Brazilian Fighter on the Rise
De Souza, who'se fight with Modafferi will be competing in her first MMA fight on U.S. soil, comes into the bout with some experience. The Brazilian has made a name for herself in smaller promotions, sporting a 12-7 record with a Shooto Brazil women’s bantamweight title under her belt.
She currently rides a two-fight winning streak, with her last win back in January 2016 - a decision over Luana Carvalho.
Since then, de Souza has had three scheduled MMA fights - including a bout against Pancrase champion Rin Nakai - all of which were canceled. Modafferi will be her highest-profile opponent yet.
Veteran vs. Up-and-comer
I think Modafferi vs. Souza be quite the entertaining match between an established women's MMA veteran and a hungry fighter looking to make a name for herself.
Both fighters are well-rounded - good grappling as well as proficient striking. Modafferi has fought a murderer’s row of opponents and will likely have the edge when it comes to experience. pundits might count her out since she lost her last fight, but if The Happy Warrior has proven anything over her career is that she can bounce back from defeat.
