The wider picture
Virna Jandiroba entered the octagon on April 4, 2026, at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, looking to rebound from a narrow defeat against Mackenzie Dern in October 2025, where she missed out on the strawweight title. Facing Tabatha Ricci, who had recently achieved a second-round knockout victory over Amanda Ribas, Jandiroba was a -130 moneyline favorite, while Ricci was considered a +105 underdog.
The fight concluded with Jandiroba winning by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28. This victory marked a significant milestone for Jandiroba, improving her mixed martial arts record to 23 wins and 4 losses, including a UFC record of 9-4. In contrast, Ricci’s record fell to 12-4 overall and 7-4 in the UFC.
Jandiroba’s performance showcased her grappling prowess, as she has accumulated 14 wins by submission throughout her career. At 37 years old, she continues to demonstrate her skills in the octagon, while Ricci, at 31, has shown promise with 2 wins by knockout. The fight was part of the UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Duncan event, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.
Following her victory, Jandiroba expressed her desire for a rematch against Mackenzie Dern, stating, “Mackenzie, I want my rematch.” This statement underscores her determination to reclaim her position among the top contenders in the strawweight division. Observers note that a rematch with Dern could be on the horizon, especially considering Jandiroba’s previous five-fight win streak prior to her loss.
Ricci, on the other hand, will need to regroup after this setback. Her last fight before facing Jandiroba had been a highlight of her career, but the unanimous decision loss may prompt her to reassess her strategy moving forward. The competitive nature of the UFC strawweight division means that both fighters will be looking to secure their next fights quickly.
As the UFC continues to evolve, the implications of this fight extend beyond just the records of Jandiroba and Ricci. The outcome influences the title picture in the strawweight division and sets the stage for potential matchups that could reshape rankings and opportunities for both fighters.
In summary, Virna Jandiroba’s victory over Tabatha Ricci not only enhances her standing in the UFC but also reignites her quest for a title shot. With her sights set on a rematch with Dern, the coming months will be crucial for both fighters as they navigate the challenges of the UFC landscape.
