Tabatha Ricci: From Brazilian Roots to UFC Stardom

Born in the small city of Birigui, Tabatha Ricci grew up surrounded by Brazil’s rich martial arts culture. Her father, a judo black belt, introduced her to the sport when she was just six years old. This early start laid a solid foundation for what would become a formidable fighting career. At fifteen, Ricci expanded her skill set by training in Muay Thai, and a few years later she added Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu to her repertoire. By the time she was 18, she was not only a seasoned practitioner but also teaching judo to others. Her diverse background gave her an edge that would later shine in the octagon. Ricci’s professional debut came in 2021. Though she faced a setback early on, losing her first fight by standing TKO to Manon Fiorot, she quickly turned the tide. She went on to win four consecutive bouts with impressive technique and determination. A split‑decision loss to Loopy Godinez tested her resilience, but she bounced back with a victory over Tecia Pennington.Her recent performances have catapulted her to the seventh spot in the women’s strawweight rankings. A decisive TKO win over Amanda Ribas at UFC on ABC 9 in 2025 showcased her power and skill. Now she is preparing for a crucial matchup against Virna Jandiroba at UFC Vegas 115, where another win could bring her closer to title contention. Off the mat, Ricci has shared moments of personal life, including a relationship with Irish boxer Callum Walsh. The two train together and have discussed the possibility of Walsh entering mixed martial arts in the future. Despite her public athletic persona, Ricci keeps aspects of her personal life private. Information about her religious beliefs or other private matters has not been disclosed, as she prefers to focus on her career and training. The trajectory of Tabatha Ricci illustrates how a strong foundation in multiple martial arts, combined with perseverance and family support, can propel an athlete from local competitions to the global stage of the UFC.