With the departure of UFC legend Amanda Nunes, the women’s bantamweight division is poised for a new generation of rising stars. In this article, we spotlight four notable women’s bantamweight fighters who are already on their way to the UFC and looking to redefine the division. These fighters didn’t just debut. They’ve made bold statements in their performance, showing that they could be future leaders in the 135-pound division.
Irina Alekseeva: “Russian Ronda”
Introducing Irina Alekseeva, a force that cannot be ignored. Alekseeva, who has an impressive 5-1 record in her professional career, made her presence felt in her UFC debut with a lightning-fast kneebar over Stephanie Egger. This 33-year-old dynamo from Russia is more than just a fighter. She is the embodiment of determination and grit. Alekseeva’s undefeated run at 135 pounds and her scheduled matchup with undefeated rookie Melissa Dixon on October 14 paints an image of a fighter poised to take the top spot.
Jamie-Lynn Horse: Bantamweight sensation on the rise in Canada
Canadian powerhouse Jamie Lynn Horse is redefining the bantamweight landscape. With a perfect 6-0 professional record, the 33-year-old defeated DWCS champion Hailey Cowan in a unanimous decision victory to make his shock UFC debut. The flyweight-turned-bantamweight horse’s strategic prowess and balanced skill set suggest he’s a fighter hungry to make history in the division.
Tamirez Vidal: Brazilian genius ready to rule
Brazil’s ‘ToraTora’ Tamirez Vidal is injecting new excitement into the bantamweight ranks. The 25-year-old Vidal has already amassed a 7-1 professional record, boasting a shocking UFC debut with a flying knee knockout against Ramona Pascual. Her explosive striking and versatility on the ground make her a multi-faceted threat that her opponents cannot ignore. Vidal’s journey with her staggering six-game winning streak demonstrates her potential to lead her division following a match against undefeated rookie Montserrat Rendon on September 23. .
Tainara Lisboa: A Muay Thai Wonder in the Spotlight
Brazilian standout Taynara Lisboa, ‘Thai Panther’ injects her unique flavor into the bantamweight mix. Coming into the UFC with her impressive 6-2 professional record, Lisboa showed off her grappling virtuosity with her debut victory over Jessica-Rose Clarke via third-round submission. Rich in her 17 years of Muay Thai experience, Lisboa’s prodigious acumen is only matched by her ambition. Her trajectory of four straight wins is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft.
As the UFC bantamweight division seeks a new leader, four incredible fighters – Irina Alekseeva, Jamie Lynn Horse, Tamirez Vidal and Tainara Lisboa – are at the forefront of that transformation. With spectacular UFC debuts and unique qualities to bring to the Octagon, these women are poised to shape the future of the 135-pound division. As fans, we’re eagerly awaiting the journey of these rising stars, as they have the potential to define a new era in women’s MMA without a doubt.