Marina Rodriguez could be next for Rose Namajunas as she looks for her next UFC strawweight title defense. The Brazilian is coming off of a dominant win over Mackenzie Dern a month ago.

Marina Rodriguez spoke with Brazilian outlet Combate about the next UFC strawweight challenger. She still believes Carla Esparza deserves the next opportunity.

“This year of 2021 was excellent for us,” Rodriguez said. “Three fights and three wins, two of them consecutive main events. It was fantastic and against great opponents. It was a near perfect year for us.”

“Things really are a little complicated as to who’s next for a title shot now,” Marina continued. “I think it’s fair that Carla gets her shot, she’s earned it. Rose has said she wanted to fight her in a rematch, because she lost the first one. In case that fight doesn’t happen, because who decides that is Dana and the UFC, we’ll be training, so we can take the opportunity if it appears. We’re starting this title project for next year and we’ll be waiting for the call.”

It's still not clear who will get the next title shot at strawweight. UFC President Dana White seems hesitant to give Carla Esparza the opportunity whilst Marina Rodriguez is still an option.

Carla Esparza holds a split decision win over Marina Rodriguez on her current five-fight win streak. She has largely been considered the next UFC strawweight title challenger. The answer on who is next for the champion should come soon as the division moves on.