Invicta FC 43: Ducote vs. Ruiz Preview

Invicta FC 43: Ducote vs. Ruiz Preview

November 20th, on UFC Fight Pass the premier women’s league in mixed martial arts returns with, Invicta FC 43: Ducote vs. Ruiz. Without delay, let’s take a look at the card, from bottom-up. First, American prospects, Juliana Miller goes against Kendal Holowell. Second to perform, Alexa Culp takes on Meaghan Penning. Third, an interesting bout between Brittney Cloudy and Hope Chase is on deck. That’s just the first half of Invicta FC 43’s main card. Now let’s dive into the second half of the main card.

Invicta FC 43 Brief Look

Next, the strawweight division is on display, as Stephanie Geltmacher is in a showdown against Caitlin Sammons. In all likelihood, the biggest fight of the night surrounds the co main event though. As a former two-time Olympic gold medalist, no one holds themselves to a higher standard than Kayla Harrison. But at Invicta FC 43, a dramatic show will be in store for fans, as the undefeated Judoka attempts to make the featherweight limit for the first time in her career. Against Harrison on November 20th, is the formidable, Courtney King.

Finally, the Invicta FC vacant strawweight championship is up for grabs when, Emily Ducote looks to fend off Montserrat Ruiz, to ascend to the top of the division. Action kicks off at 8PM PT Friday November 20th, on UFC Fight Pass.

Juliana Miller vs. Kendal Holowell

While both athletes have solid records, Holowell has a significant experience advantage. Mainly because until now, Miller has been primarily a grappler. Despite her experience on her amateur record, professional fighting promotions typically force fighters to make a full account of themselves. Now we get to find out if she can translate her skills into professional MMA and go on a run. Conversely, Hollowell is on a five-fight win streak and will look to keep that record intact.

Alexa Culp vs. Meaghan Penning

By all means a pivotal fight at flyweight, Culp has a nasty rear naked choke she’s brought from her amateur experience. Despite that, Penning enters this bout with more professional experience and finishes. As both athletes like to mix it up on the ground, fans may be in store for an adept grappling bout.

Brittney Cloudy vs. Hope Chase

Since both competitors lost by decision in their last bout, pressure is on to perform. Cloudy’s relentless style is effective at wearing opponents down. Eventually, Cloudy takes their back and sinks in the rear-naked choke. However, when the fighter doesn’t go away, she tends to struggle to pick up decisions. Conversely, Chase is dangerous, with one of the quickest knockouts in women’s history at nine seconds.

Stephanie Geltmacher vs. Caitlin Sammons

If Sammons can keep her undefeated record alive, she’s sure to be a problem for the flyweight division. Fighting the wrestler, Geltmacher needs to utilize experience and fight IQ to confuse the prospect. Overall this bout is shrouded in mystery, and should open a lot of eyes once it’s over.

 Invicta FC 43 Co Main Event – Kayla Harrison vs. Courtney King

Last time out, Harrison won dominantly but still was upset with her performance. Mainly, because the bout was close, and she was unable to finish her opponent. Overall, it speaks volumes about her competing ability. One has grown accustomed to seeing her judo abilities, but lately her striking has been evolving too.

Facing off with the undefeated former Olympian, King definitely has an uphill battle but both athletes have a similar amount of experience. Since King possesses some crafty submissions and back takes, that will likely be one path to victory. But if King sets a furious pace, perhaps she can exhaust Harrison since the Judoka has to cut so much weight for the featherweight limit. Consequently, using her height and range will be a huge key to victory because when distance is closed, Harrison’s top pressure is downright scary.

Invicta FC 43 Main Event – Emily Ducote vs. Montserrat Ruiz

With the Invicta FC 43 vacant strawweight title up for grabs, huge opportunities are on the line for both athletes. Fighting out of King’s MMA, Ruiz has a really solid record with plenty of finishes. On the other hand, Ducote has come up short on so many decisions. However, it seems as though the more active Ducote is, the better her performances get. For instance in 2019, when she fought twice in short order, they both ended in finish. Regardless, the strawweight division will have a new queen, so keep it locked here for more MMA content!

author avatar
Doug Murray
Freelance Writer - Sports MMA