Loopy Godinez says this with no ill-intent: It's a good thing Zhang Weili is no longer actively competing in the division.
Ahead of UFC Fight Night 290, Godinez (14-6 MMA, 9-6 UFC) feels energized. A main card booking at Meta APEX in Las Vegas vs. Ketlen Souza (17-6 MMA, 4-3 UFC) could make an impact in a division that's slowly become inundated with fresh faces and fighters with newfound momentum.
"I think there's been some movement in there and I really like it," Godinez recently told MMA Junkie Radio. "Since (Zhang) Weili left, I feel like there's been a lot of movement (with) Mackenzie being the champ now. There are so many new up-and-comers coming into the rankings. That's also really exciting. We can see so many different names that have
changed throughout the years. It's exciting. I'm very excited."
Godinez, 33, has become a fan favorite – and a promotion favorite too. She's remained active, willing to take on opponents of all levels, even if she comes up short in the outcome. She enters the Oct. 10 event looking to bounce back from a submission loss to Tatiana Suarez in April. If she does so, it'll be her third win in four fights.
"Definitely. I think a win over here is going to be really good for me and the whole thing. I'm really excited. I do feel the UFC really likes me. They know I'm always ready. I'm always game to fight any opponent. I've never said no to a fight. I've never pulled out. Thankfully, my body has been really good to me. So yeah, that's probably why."
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Loopy Godinez energized by UFC strawweight turnover
