The wider picture
Virna Jandiroba faced off against Tabatha Ricci at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Duncan on April 4, 2026, in Las Vegas. This fight was crucial for both fighters, as Jandiroba was looking to bounce back from a recent loss to Mackenzie Dern, while Ricci aimed to build on her impressive second-round knockout victory over Amanda Ribas in July 2025.
In a tightly contested match, Jandiroba emerged victorious, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28. This victory improved Jandiroba’s mixed martial arts record to 23-4 and her UFC record to 9-4, while Ricci’s record fell to 12-4 in MMA and 7-4 in the UFC.
Prior to the fight, Jandiroba was a -130 moneyline favorite, while Ricci was seen as a +105 underdog. The odds reflected the competitive nature of the matchup, but Jandiroba’s experience and skill ultimately shone through in the octagon.
After the fight, Jandiroba made her intentions clear, calling out 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.
At 37 years old, Jandiroba has demonstrated her resilience and skill throughout her career, boasting 14 wins by submission. In contrast, Ricci, who is 31, has secured 2 wins by knockout, showcasing her striking power. The fight highlighted the contrasting styles of the two fighters, with Jandiroba’s grappling prowess prevailing over Ricci’s striking capabilities.
Observers are now keenly watching the strawweight division, as Jandiroba’s victory positions her for a potential rematch with Dern, who narrowly defeated her in October 2025 for the title. The outcome of this fight could have significant implications for the future of the division.
As the dust settles on this matchup, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder the next steps for both fighters. Jandiroba’s call for a rematch with Dern adds an exciting layer to the narrative, while Ricci will need to regroup and strategize for her next fight. The stakes are high, and the competition remains fierce in the UFC.