In a surprising turn of events, former two-time UFC strawweight champion Rose Namajunas has found newfound motivation in her recent loss, as she looks to make a statement in a second division. Namajunas (11-6 MMA, 9-5 UFC) is set to face Amanda Ribas (12-4 MMA, 7-3 UFC) in the main event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas this Saturday.

Despite criticism from some, including renowned MMA referee John McCarthy, who questioned Namajunas' decision to move up to flyweight, the fighter seems determined to prove her doubters wrong. McCarthy openly questioned whether Namajunas still had the same passion for the fight game, suggesting that she no longer seemed energized by it. He stated, "The real question is, does she really want to be doing this anymore? It just doesn't seem like she's energized by the fight game."

However, Namajunas's statements during Wednesday's media day paint a different picture. She expressed that her loss to Manon Fiorot in her divisional debut last September has motivated her even more. The setback has given her renewed focus and drive to succeed in her new weight class.

Namajunas's co-host, former UFC lightweight Josh Thomson, echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing the importance of finding the right opponent to fuel motivation. Thomson opined that certain fighters have brought out the best in Namajunas, mentioning Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Weili Zhang, and Jessica Andrade as examples.

With her upcoming fight against Ribas, Namajunas is eager to prove that she still has what it takes to be a force in the flyweight division. The determined fighter is determined to reclaim her status as a champion and prove McCarthy and other naysayers wrong.

As Saturday's main event approaches, all eyes will be on Namajunas to see if she can harness her newfound motivation and deliver a memorable performance. With her sights set on a title in her second division, "Thug Rose" is ready to leave a lasting impact and prove that setbacks can fuel her drive for success. Fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate witnessing Namajunas's next chapter in her MMA journey.