Randa Markos Says She Changed Things Up To Get A Fight

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Randa Markos (5-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC) spoke about changing things in order to make sure she got a fight when one with Paige VanZant didn’t happen. She will face Karolina Kowalkiewicz (7-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) tonight at UFC on FOX 17. It airs on FOX after preliminary fights on FOX Sports 1 and UFC Fight Pass.

On not getting the fight with VanZant: “I’ve been trying to get a fight, trying to get a fight – and it wasn’t happening. Then I wanted to fight Paige, and that didn’t happen. I think that was a turning a point. I was like, ‘These girls are all getting experience, so I need to change it up. I need to step up my game so I can ready for everyone.”

On UFC promoting VanZant: “When you have that image and that look, it’s kind of like a curse. I don’t think she’s ready to be pushed that fast, but it’s not in her hands, really.”

On facing Kowalkiewicz: “A lot of people don’t know much about her, and I think they’re underestimating her. I know she’s a tough opponent. I compare her a lot to Tecia Torres and to (UFC champ Joanna Jedrzejczyk). She’s got great striking, and she’s got great footwork, and also great takedown defense.”