The wider picture
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated fight at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Duncan, Virna Jandiroba found herself in a critical juncture of her career. Having narrowly missed out on the strawweight title against Mackenzie Dern in October 2025, Jandiroba was eager to reclaim her momentum. With a professional record of 22 wins and 4 losses, she was a -130 moneyline favorite against Tabatha Ricci, who entered the octagon as a +105 underdog.
The bout took place on April 4, 2026, at Meta APEX in Las Vegas, where Jandiroba showcased her grappling prowess and striking skills. The judges scored the fight 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28 in favor of Jandiroba, marking a decisive victory that improved her record to 23-4 MMA and 9-4 UFC. This win not only solidified her standing in the strawweight division but also highlighted her resilience after a previous setback against Dern.
For Ricci, the fight was a significant challenge. Coming off a second-round knockout victory over Amanda Ribas in July 2025, she aimed to build on her momentum. However, the fight against Jandiroba proved to be a tough test, and her record now stands at 12-4 MMA and 7-4 UFC. Despite the loss, Ricci’s performance demonstrated her potential as a contender in the division.
Post-fight, Jandiroba expressed her desire for a rematch with Mackenzie Dern, stating, “Mackenzie, I want my rematch.” This call-out underscores her determination to reclaim the title shot she narrowly missed just months prior. With 14 of her 23 career wins coming by submission, Jandiroba’s grappling skills remain a formidable asset in her pursuit of championship gold.
Observers noted that Jandiroba’s victory could set the stage for a rematch with Dern, especially given the competitive nature of the strawweight division. The fight showcased Jandiroba’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges, a trait that will serve her well as she navigates the path back to title contention.
As for Ricci, the loss may serve as a learning experience, providing her with valuable insights into the level of competition she must face to ascend the ranks. At just 31 years old, she still has time to refine her skills and mount a comeback in future bouts.
Looking ahead, the UFC landscape is ever-changing, and both fighters will need to strategize their next moves carefully. Jandiroba’s call for a rematch with Dern is likely to resonate with fans and officials alike, while Ricci will need to regroup and focus on her next opponent. The dynamics of the strawweight division continue to evolve, and both fighters will play pivotal roles in shaping its future.
