Tabatha Ricci promises good show for the fans at UFC 285

04 March 2023

Tabatha Ricci is all set to make her return against Jessica Penne at UFC 285.

In her first year with the organisation, Baby Shark" competed in three fights for the UFC, going 3-0 in the 115-pound natural strawweight division. Both triumphs were achieved by resounding Unanimous Decision victories over fellow Brazilian talents Polyana Viana and Maria Oliveira.

Ricci's fame increased after his victory over Viana, an established celebrity. After that victory in May of last year, though, Ricci and her supporters have had to wait ten months to see her return to the Octagon.

Ricci was swiftly signed to compete against fellow LFA alumna Cheyanne Vlismas at UFC Vegas 61 in October, however, Vlismas pulled out four weeks prior to the event, and Jessica Penne took her place. Then, Penne withdrew due to illness the morning of the weigh-in.

Ricci chooses to see the bright side whereas others might view that as bad luck. The fight with Penne was rescheduled for one of the biggest UFC events of 2023, one month after the fight was postponed. The legendary Jon Jones makes his long-awaited comeback to the UFC at UFC 285, taking on former UFC interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane.

Speaking to LFA, Ricci noted that she is excited about the prospect of fighting at the T Mobile Arena.

“I’m very excited. I’ve been there in T-Mobile Arena with Julija (Stoliarenko) for the first time last summer. I have felt the adrenaline and the thrill, so I kinda already know what to expect. I’m just going to blank my mind and not going to pay attention to it once I’m in there. I’m just going to focus on myself, my team, my strategy, and the work that we have to do,” she told LFA.

Speaking further, she noted that she is planning to put a show for the fans.

“My goal is just to go there, do my thing, and go back to my family and friends… enjoy them and just make this job done. I’m very excited and grateful for the UFC for having me on this card. I just want to make a good show for the public. Of course for myself and then make everyone proud of me, because this was a lot of work and this work just started. Yeah, I’m just grateful,” Ricci added.

What do you think of the showdown between Tabatha Ricci and Jessica Penne at UFC 285 this weekend? Let us know in the comments below.

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