Tabatha Ricci considers her upcoming fight against Virna Jandiroba at UFC Vegas 115 a pivotal moment that could finally propel her into the strawweight title conversation, potentially leading to a showdown with Mackenzie Dern. However, she frames this high-stakes encounter as a vital step in her journey, not the ultimate destination. The Brazilian strawweight is set to face Jandiroba in the co-main event this Saturday in Las Vegas, a three-round contest pitting an established top-three contender against a rising star striving to break into the elite ranks.
Ricci’s Path to Title Contention
Virna Jandiroba arrives as a recognized figure in the 115-pound division, consistently ranked around the No. 3 spot. Her recent title challenge against Mackenzie Dern at UFC 321, despite ending in a five-round decision loss, solidified her capability to compete at a championship level. Jandiroba boasts an impressive professional record with numerous victories, a strong submission game, and extensive experience across Invicta FC and the UFC.
For Ricci, this particular assignment has the potential to significantly alter how UFC matchmakers view her prospects. Entering 2026, she was on the cusp of the top 10 after a commendable UFC run that includes wins over Jessica Penne, Polyana Viana, Gillian Robertson, and Angela Hill. She has also gained valuable experience from challenging bouts against opponents like Loopy Godinez and Yan Xiaonan. Ricci’s overall MMA record primarily consists of decision victories, complemented by some submission finishes and a single stoppage via strikes.
Ricci acknowledges the increased pressure and significance of this weekend’s fight but maintains her philosophy of treating every bout as “the biggest fight of her career,” a mindset that helps her stay focused and not get caught up in ranking discussions.
“I feel every fight is the biggest fight of my career so far. This one has some stakes attached to it though, right? It’s a little crowded at the top of the division, so if I go out there and get a performance, I’m right in that title discussion. That’s what I want. I’m going to go as vicious as I can, try and get my best performance of the night, and get my challenge for the belt.”
Defending the Grappling Game in MMA
The conversation surrounding this matchup in Las Vegas has inevitably touched upon the role of grappling in modern MMA, particularly after recent debates sparked by Charles Oliveira’s wrestling-heavy performance. Jandiroba, a highly decorated jiu-jitsu practitioner with a history of numerous submission victories, exemplifies the grappling-first approach within the strawweight division.
Ricci was quick to dismiss any suggestions that she has turned against the grappling aspect of the sport, emphasizing her own deep roots in martial arts.
“I never say anything bad about jiu-jitsu. I come from grappling, that’s my background in judo and jiu-jitsu. I love the grappling and I really support the jiu-jitsu in the division. I don’t know where this came from, but I don’t have anything bad to say about jiu-jitsu or grappling. If you’re a jiu-jitsu player and the fight goes to the ground, it’s very exciting because you know what’s happening.”
Eyeing the Strawweight Title
With Mackenzie Dern currently holding the strawweight belt, a queue of eager contenders, including both Jandiroba and Ricci, awaits their shot. Jandiroba has already tested her mettle against Dern in a challenging five-round title bid. Ricci, on the other hand, views a victory this weekend as her direct ticket into those championship conversations.
“Any time, whatever takes me closer to my goals, I’ll be willing to do it. With a victory here this weekend I’d love a title shot, like any fighter, but if that’s not in the cards and it’s a rematch with Yan Xiaonan, Loopy Godinez, or maybe even a fight against Jillian Robertson, I’m open to it if it gets me nearer to the belt.”
Regardless of whether a direct title shot materializes immediately, a decisive win on Saturday would undoubtedly keep Ricci firmly in the title hunt, allowing her to strategically position herself while Dern, Weili, and the other top contenders navigate their own matchups.