Beatriz Mesquita explains Ailin Perez callout after armbar win

Beatriz Mesquita wants a crack at Ailin Perez to settle a continental rivalry inside the cage.

The undefeated Brazilian called out Perez after submitting Melissa Mullins with a first-round armbar at UFC Fight Night 279 on Saturday in Las Vegas. Mullins landed early in the opening frame and dropped for a takedown, according to Sherdog, but lost position when she postured up for an elbow. Mesquita locked up the tap from guard.

Why Mesquita targeted Perez for next fight

Mesquita told the UFC post-fight that she wants a Top 5 opponent by year's end, and Perez sits at No. 5 in the official rankings. She also took issue with the Argentine's in-cage celebrations, which have drawn attention for their twerking. "I don't like her attitude in the cage," Mesquita said, per the UFC. "But more than that, I think she's a really good match for me. She can grapple too, so I think it's gonna be a really interesting fight. Also, Brazil and Argentina is a big rivalry."

The 8-0 Mesquita has never seen a judges' scorecard, finishing six bouts by submission. Perez carries a 13-2 record and has won six straight inside the Octagon.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Beatriz Mesquita explains callout of Ailin Perez