‘The Ultimate Fighter 18’ Finale Preview

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Women’s Bantamweights

Raquel Pennington (3-3, 0-0 UFC) vs. Roxanne Modafferi (15-10, 0-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Pennington’s back-and-forth duel with Jessamyn Duke on Episode 6 was lauded as the “Fight of the Season,” but she was unable to pull the trigger consistently in a loss to Jessica Rakoczy in the semifinals.

Modafferi, meanwhile, was one of the show’s most beloved competitors. The 31-year-old entered the competition having lost five bouts in a row, albeit against tough competition: Sarah Kaufman, Rosi Sexton, Hitomi Akano, Barb Honchak and Takayo Hashi. “The Happy Warrior” submitted Valerie Letourneau in the preliminary round before falling to Rakoczy in the quarterfinals. Modafferi’s wealth of experience will be one of her greatest advantages, as Pennington is unlikely to show her anything she has not already seen.

Pennington’s pedestrian record is deceiving. Her last three bouts have come under the Invicta Fighting Championships banner, including a pair of tough losses to Cat Zingano -- she was set to challenge Rousey for the Ultimate Fighting Championship strap before suffering an injury -- and Leslie Smith, who will face Barb Honchak for the Invicta flyweight crown on Dec. 7. Such experience can only help a young fighter grow, which Pennington has obviously done. The Colorado Springs, Colo., native’s ability to battle through tough spots should serve her well against Modafferi.

Pennington is durable and a better striker than Modafferi, who would prefer to get the action to the ground as quickly as possible. On the feet, Pennington has crisp punching combinations and is particularly effective landing her right hand. “Rocky” has an opportunistic guillotine choke, but her takedown defense and ability to return to her feet could be pivotal. Modafferi is active on the canvas and will attempt to transition and advance position to secure submissions.

The Pick: Modafferi is as likeable as they come, but she might be too one-dimensional in the rapidly evolving climate of women’s MMA. A more versatile Pennington wins via decision.

Next Fight » Peggy Morgan vs. Jessamyn Duke