Virna Jandiroba points out ‘ideal path’ to belt after crucial duel at UFC Atlantic City

In search of achieving the dream title fight, Virna Jandiroba is preparing for, perhaps, one of the last challenges before a possible meeting against the champion. Climbing to face Lupita Godinez at UFC Atlantic City this Saturday (30), the Brazilian defends her position in fifth place in the strawweight rankings (up to 52.1kg) and tries to achieve her third consecutive victory in the organization.

In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS, Virna commented on her jump in the category ranking; preparation for fight; analysis on Godinez; expectations after the confrontation and predictions about the champion’s next title defense Weili Zhang at the UFC 300.

“I expected to be at the top for a long time, since I joined the UFC. I actually had a very good opportunity with Marina Rodriguez. (out of 12) I went to sixth, then fifth. It wasn’t quite the path I imagined, but it was good. I was looking for that”, declared Virna.

Expectations for the fight

“Obviously I’m ready for striking. I’m an experienced athlete, I’m ready for striking, but I want to do grappling. I’m not hiding anyone, I want the fight to stick. Of course we’re going to exchange (blows), but I’m going to look for a grappling fight”

Difference in positions in the ranking

“I accepted the fight because I always accept all the fights that the UFC offers me and because I found it an interesting fight match. I wasn’t thinking much about the ranking position, etc. So I thought it’s an interesting marriage. Everyone is obviously looking for it. I also want someone ahead of me in the rankings. She wants it too. Just like it was against Marina who was in front of me and I fought with her. It’s a good fighting marriage, that’s why I accepted”

Path to title

“The UFC is a bit unpredictable, right? What I expect is another fight. Like I said: the UFC is unpredictable, anything can happen. It depends a lot on the circumstances, the moment. What I’m expecting, being more conservative, is more of a fight. It would be wonderful if I challenged for the belt right away. I’m ready for it”

Weili Zhang x Yan Xionan

“I already trained with Yan. She is a very good person, dedicated, etc. But Weili Zhang She is a very solid, experienced, very complete champion. So I think the Weili Zhang win this duel. Because she is a very solid champion, I think it would be better to fight Yan, right? The game for Weili Zhang It has to be more fluid”