The UFC women’s bantamweight division got an infusion of action early Wednesday morning. Julia Avila and Julija Stoliarenko are slated to meet at the UFC event on Feb.20. While at the moment, the location or venue has yet to be determined, the card is packed with a great headliner in Kevin Holland taking on Derek Brunson.
Initially, the news was first reported by MMAJunkie’s Farah Hannoun. Prior to coming up short against Sijara Eubanks, Avila (8-2) was on a nice three-fight win-streak. The 32-year old bantamweight gained momentum after taking out, Ashley Deen, Alexa Conners, and Pannie Kianzad. Not to mention Avila was able to finish two of those three opponents. Despite the hard-fought decision over Kianzad, Avila’s ceiling appears to be high among the promotion.
Julia Avila and Julija Stoliarenko meet in Feb.
The Lithuanian born Stoliarenko (9-4-1) has looked very sharp inside the cage. Before her unanimous decision loss to Yana Kunitskaya, Stoliarenko amassed five victories. In addition, of the five victories, four of them ended in an armbar submission. Also an important note, both athletes have successfully competed in the Invicta promotion.
Certainly, a great stylistic matchup, Avila’s heavy hands always more for an exciting outing. On top of that, Stoliarenko’s ability to control opponents on the ground is nothing short of impressive. Especially since the Lithuanian athlete is able to secure armbars so quick and early. In fact, three of Stoliarenko’s armbars come within the first thirty seconds of the fight.
With the addition of Julia Avila and Julija Stoliarenko added to the UFC Feb.20 card, here is the full bout list so far:
