Two elite Brazilian fighters will take center stage this Saturday at UFC Fight Night, held at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Amanda Lemos and Virna Jandiroba are set to clash in a bout that could propel the winner closer to a shot at the UFC women's strawweight crown.
Amanda Lemos: Power and Precision
With a professional record of 14-3-1, Amanda Lemos has quickly carved out a reputation as one of the most formidable strikers in the strawweight division. Known for her devastating knockdowns, Lemos leads the division in this category, making her a significant threat to any opponent.
Lemos faced a tough setback with a decision loss to the reigning champion Zhang Weili. However, she demonstrated resilience by bouncing back with a decision victory over Mackenzie Dern. "It was an amazing opportunity and a dream come true," Lemos reflected on her fight with Weili. "I learned a lot. We watched all my mistakes. I trained a lot to make sure I didn't commit them again."
This introspective approach has evidently paid off. Lemos's recent performances showcase an improved fighter, more seasoned and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Her commitment to evolving as an athlete is palpable. "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 Submission Specialist
Virna Jandiroba boasts a 20-3 record and is currently riding a three-fight winning streak. A former Invicta champion, Jandiroba's resume includes notable victories over Marina Rodriguez and Angela Hill. Making her UFC debut in 2019 on short notice against Carla Esparza, Jandiroba has proven herself to be a formidable presence in the division.
Known for her grappling prowess, Jandiroba has finished 11 of her 14 regional fights via submission. However, replicating that success in the UFC has been more challenging. Despite this, her mental transformation has been a key factor in her recent string of victories. "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.
This shift in mindset has allowed her to leverage her skills more effectively inside the octagon. "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," she said.
An Awaited Clash
As both fighters prepare for what promises to be an electrifying showdown, the stakes couldn't be higher. Lemos and Jandiroba are not just fighting for a win; they are fighting for a potential title shot. Both fighters have demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience, making this an intriguing match-up.
The bout gains additional significance given the current landscape of the UFC women's strawweight division. Champion Zhang Weili is expected to face the unbeaten Tatiana Suarez next. With a perfect 10-0 record, Suarez represents yet another formidable challenge in the division.
However, neither Lemos nor Jandiroba is looking past their immediate challenge. Lemos, with her striking capabilities, and Jandiroba, with her grappling expertise, will be keen to utilize their respective strengths to secure a decisive victory. Given their current form and mental focus, fans can expect a high-stakes battle that could very well alter the dynamics of the division.
There's no denying that both athletes have their eyes set on the prize. A victory in this bout could be a crucial stepping stone towards achieving their ultimate goal -- a shot at the UFC women's strawweight crown. As Saturday night approaches, all eyes will be on these two Brazilian warriors as they prepare to leave it all in the octagon.