Two of Brazil's finest fighters will take center stage in Las Vegas this Saturday for the headline bout of UFC Fight Night at the UFC Apex. Amanda Lemos and Virna Jandiroba, both eyeing a potential shot at the UFC women's strawweight crown, are set to deliver what promises to be a compelling clash of styles and tenacity.
Amanda Lemos: A Force in the Strawweight Division
Amanda Lemos brings an impressive 14-3-1 record into the octagon, solidifying her status as a formidable competitor. Known for her striking prowess, Lemos leads the strawweight division in knockdowns, earning a reputation as its top threat in this regard.
Lemos has shown resilience and adaptability in her career. Following a decision loss to the reigning champion Zhang Weili, she bounced back with a crucial decision victory over Mackenzie Dern. Reflecting on her journey, Lemos remarked, "It was an amazing opportunity and a dream come true. I learned a lot. We watched all my mistakes. I saw all the situations and errors that were made. I trained a lot to make sure I didn't commit them again."
Lemos has demonstrated a commitment to growth and improvement, a mindset she carries into each fight. "I'm a fighter that wants to finish time. I want to get home as quickly as possible but a win is a win. The thing that I evaluate the most is how much I've evolved as a fighter. How much more improvement was there? If I'm a better fighter [than the last time], I'm happy with my performance," she added.
Virna Jandiroba: The Submissions Specialist
Virna Jandiroba, boasting a record of 20-3, enters this duel riding a three-fight winning streak. Known for her grappling skills, Jandiroba has finished 11 of her 14 regional fights via submission, though her submission success in the UFC has been less consistent. Nonetheless, she remains a formidable threat on the ground, and her striking defense rate of 57% and striking accuracy of 38% showcase her all-around capabilities.
Jandiroba's journey in the UFC began in 2019, debuting on short notice against Carla Esparza. Since then, she has notched notable victories over Marina Rodriguez and Angela Hill, contributing to her rise within the division. Jandiroba attributes her recent successes to a mental transformation, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and belief in her skills.
"Although the level of the girls now is extremely high -- they're very strong and tough -- I believe the biggest key to finishing more people in the division is mental. I needed more self-confidence, belief in my growth and my jiu-jitsu," Jandiroba explained. "I know I have the jiu-jitsu required to tap out many girls in the Top 10. The mental part has always been challenging and that changed a few fights ago. I think I'm going towards that line of being able to submit more people."
Title Shot Aspirations
With the strawweight division currently ruled by champion Zhang Weili, who is expected to face the unbeaten Tatiana Suarez next, both Lemos and Jandiroba see their upcoming fight as a critical step towards a title shot. Suarez, with a flawless 10-0 record, represents a potential challenge for any contender aiming for the crown. A victory for either Lemos or Jandiroba could significantly bolster their credentials for a future title bout.
Lemos, having improved her performance since her loss to Zhang Weili, is determined to make her mark. Jandiroba, too, having emphasized mental growth, believes she is better equipped than ever to handle top-tier opponents and make a bid for the title.
Saturday's bout is more than a fight; it's a pivotal moment in the careers of both athletes. With their eyes on the championship, Amanda Lemos and Virna Jandiroba are ready to showcase their skills and determination, leaving it all in the octagon in Las Vegas. Fans can expect an enthralling contest, reflective of the highest levels of competition in the UFC women's strawweight division.