Ladies and gentlemen, grab your popcorn and buckle up, because UFC 287 gave us a fight for the ages! The ever-popular “Karate Hottie,” Michelle Waterson-Gomez, faced off against the surging Brazilian, Luana Pinheiro, in a razor-close showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats.

From the get-go, both fighters came out swinging (and kicking). Waterson-Gomez was quick to land a low kick, showing off her skills and keeping her opponent at bay. However, it didn’t take long for Pinheiro to make her presence known, delivering a powerful leg kick that showcased the difference in power between the two warriors.

Throughout the fight, it was a battle of strategy and skill. Waterson-Gomez wowed the crowd with a spinning elbow, while Pinheiro continued to whip leg kicks and heavy punches. One front kick from Waterson-Gomez sent Pinheiro to the ground, but the Brazilian fighter bounced back up without missing a beat. With both fighters bringing their A-game, it was anyone’s guess who would come out on top.

The second round was just as intense as the first, with Waterson-Gomez stepping up the pressure and Pinheiro responding in kind. At one point, Pinheiro caught a kick from Waterson-Gomez and landed a punch while still holding onto her opponent’s limb – a true testament to the “Karate Hottie’s” incredible balance!

As the final round began, both fighters showed no signs of slowing down. Waterson-Gomez took the fight to the ground but couldn’t keep Pinheiro there for long. They eventually ended up in a clinch, with both fighters fighting for control. As the round wore on, Pinheiro’s output seemed to drop off, giving Waterson-Gomez the opportunity to land some powerful side kicks.

With only a minute left in the fight, Waterson-Gomez timed a level change perfectly, briefly taking Pinheiro down once more. As they returned to their feet, it was Waterson-Gomez who maintained control, leaving fans biting their nails as they awaited the judges’ decision.

In a fight that was truly too close to call, it was Pinheiro who ultimately walked away with the split decision win. A well-deserved victory for the undefeated Brazilian fighter, but a heartbreakingly close loss for the “Karate Hottie.” Hats off to both of these incredible fighters for putting on a show we won’t soon forget!

Official Result: Luana Pinheiro def. Michelle Waterson-Gomez by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)