Andrade dominates Gadelha for unanimous decision at UFC Japan

Strawweight contender Jessica Andrade defeated Claudia Gadelha by unanimous decision in the co-main event at UFC Fight Night 117.

Gadelha, the favorite and No. 1 contender, looked to take control of the fight early in the first round as she opened up her opponent with a nasty cut. But, by the end of the first five minutes, Andrade gained momentum.

Andrade dominated the final two rounds, countering several take-down attempts and gaining position on Gadelha in the ground game while asserting strength. Gadelha began to tire towards to end of the second round, but managed to lock in a guillotine choke as seconds expired in the second frame.

The underdog Brazilian quickly gained position in the final round and did not give it up, bombarding Gadelha with body and head shots on the mat.

Of Andrade's 12 UFC fights - a record for female fighters - this appeared to be her best showing and could have earned her another title shot. With 242 connected strikes, Andrade set the UFC record for most total strikes by a strawweight.