The UFC is set to make a historic return to Macau this Saturday with an electrifying card that promises action, drama, and a reshuffling of divisional rankings. In the co-main event, strawweight contenders Yan Xiaonan vs Tabatha Ricci are poised to collide in a pivotal bout that could have major implications for their careers and the division's hierarchy.
Meet the Fighters: Yan Xiaonan and Tabatha Ricci
Yan Xiaonan: China’s Strawweight Pioneer
Yan Xiaonan, ranked #3 in the UFC strawweight division, has been a trailblazer for Chinese MMA. Known as "Fury," Yan burst onto the UFC scene in 2017 as the first Chinese female fighter signed by the promotion. Her rise has been nothing short of remarkable, with victories over elite names like Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Mackenzie Dern showcasing her technical striking and unyielding determination.
Yan’s career highlight came in May 2023 when she scored a stunning first-round TKO over former champion Jessica Andrade. This victory solidified her position as a top contender and set her up as a serious threat to reigning champion Zhang Weili. At 34, Yan is in her athletic prime, blending crisp Muay Thai with advanced footwork to control range and outstrike opponents.
Tabatha Ricci: The Brazilian “Baby Shark”
Tabatha Ricci, ranked #8, has been on a meteoric rise in the division. The Brazilian judo and BJJ black belt earned her nickname "Baby Shark" for her relentless grappling and aggressive approach inside the Octagon. Ricci joined the UFC in 2021 and has since amassed an impressive record, with victories over veterans like Jessica Penne and Lupita Godinez.
While Ricci’s ground game is her bread and butter, her evolving striking game has made her a dual threat. Training with top-tier athletes at Paragon Academy, she has sharpened her ability to close distance and capitalize on submission opportunities. At just 29, Ricci represents the new wave of strawweights hungry to climb the ladder and make a name for themselves on the global stage.
Fighting Styles and Key Strengths
The matchup between Yan and Ricci promises to be a classic clash of styles: striker versus grappler.
Yan Xiaonan: A striking technician, Yan thrives in high-volume exchanges. Her ability to control distance and overwhelm opponents with combinations makes her one of the most dangerous strikers in the division. Her TKO win against Andrade demonstrated her knockout power, a rarity in the strawweight division.
Tabatha Ricci: Ricci’s grappling is her defining weapon. She excels in chaining takedowns and smothering opponents with positional control. Her submission skills are lethal, and her ability to adapt mid-fight has been critical in her success. Ricci’s cardio and pressure will test Yan’s ability to defend against relentless ground attacks.
What’s at Stake?
The stakes for this fight couldn’t be higher.
For Yan Xiaonan, a win could cement her claim for a title shot against Zhang Weili, setting up an all-Chinese showdown that fans have long anticipated. A loss, however, could derail her momentum and push her further from championship contention.
For Tabatha Ricci, a victory over a top-3 opponent like Yan would be a career-defining moment, propelling her into the elite tier of the strawweight division. It would also showcase her ability to compete with the best, setting her up as a future title challenger. A loss, however, could stall her ascent and force her to regroup.
Why Fans Should Tune In
This fight promises fireworks, as both fighters bring contrasting styles and equally high stakes to the Octagon. Fans can expect:
High-Intensity Action: Yan’s striking and Ricci’s grappling guarantee a dynamic contest. Will Yan’s precision striking prevail, or will Ricci’s ground game dictate the pace?
Division-Shaking Implications: The outcome of this fight will undoubtedly shake up the strawweight rankings and influence the title picture.
Emotional Stakes: Both fighters are not only competing for victory but also for the opportunity to define their legacies in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions.
For the UFC, it’s a chance to further solidify its presence in Asia and elevate the strawweight division's visibility on the international stage. All eyes are on Yan Xiaonan and Tabatha Ricci. With their contrasting styles, compelling backstories, and a burning desire to ascend the strawweight ranks, this co-main event promises to be a complete showdown.