Virna Jandiroba is a well-respected name in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), particularly in the women’s strawweight division. A highly skilled submission specialist, Jandiroba has built a reputation for her grappling prowess and relentless ground game. Over the course of her career, she has faced some of the toughest opponents in the sport, demonstrating resilience, technical skill, and a determination to rise through the ranks.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born in Brazil, Virna Jandiroba started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at an early age, quickly developing into a formidable competitor. Her skills in grappling laid the foundation for her success in MMA, where she would go on to secure multiple victories via submission.
Jandiroba began her professional MMA journey in 2013, debuting with back-to-back victories that showcased her submission expertise. She competed in regional promotions in Brazil, amassing an undefeated record as she worked her way toward larger platforms. Her performances did not go unnoticed, and she was soon signed by Invicta FC in 2017.
Invicta FC: Building an Impressive Record
Upon joining Invicta FC, Jandiroba quickly established herself as a dominant force in the strawweight division. She secured three consecutive wins, which earned her a title shot against Mizuki Inoue for the Invicta FC Strawweight Championship. In a highly competitive fight, Jandiroba emerged victorious via split decision, claiming the championship belt and solidifying her position as one of the top strawweight fighters outside the UFC.
Her reign as champion, however, was short-lived—not because of a loss but due to a bigger opportunity that awaited her. With an undefeated record and a championship belt in her possession, Jandiroba caught the attention of the UFC and received an offer to compete on the sport’s biggest stage.
Transition to the UFC
Jandiroba made her UFC debut in April 2019, stepping in on short notice to face former UFC champion Carla Esparza. Despite putting up a strong effort, she suffered the first loss of her professional career, dropping a unanimous decision to the highly experienced Esparza.
Determined to prove herself, she bounced back impressively with dominant submission victories over Mallory Martin and Felice Herrig, re-establishing her status as a serious contender in the UFC’s strawweight division.
Notable UFC Fights
Jandiroba has shared the octagon with several elite fighters, showcasing her ability to compete at the highest level. Some of her most notable fights include:
- Carla Esparza (April 2019): Her UFC debut resulted in a decision loss but demonstrated her capability against a former champion.
- Felice Herrig (August 2020): A quick submission victory via armbar in the first round, showcasing her grappling dominance.
- Mackenzie Dern (December 2020): A competitive fight against a fellow Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, though she lost via unanimous decision.
- Amanda Ribas (May 2023): Another tough battle, displaying her resilience despite a decision loss.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Jandiroba is widely recognized for her elite-level grappling, with a strong emphasis on submissions. As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, she frequently looks to take her opponents to the ground, where she can secure dominant positions and seek submission finishes. Her ability to control opponents and apply pressure on the mat makes her one of the most dangerous grapplers in the strawweight division.
In addition to her ground game, she has steadily improved her striking, allowing her to become a more well-rounded fighter. While her stand-up game may not be her primary weapon, it has developed enough to complement her grappling and make her a threat in all areas of a fight.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As Jandiroba continues her journey in the UFC, she remains one of the most skilled grapplers in the division. Her ability to battle high-level opponents and steadily improve her overall skill set suggests that she has the potential to climb even higher in the rankings.
If she continues to refine her striking and maintain her impressive grappling dominance, Jandiroba could find herself with another opportunity to compete for a major title in the future. Given her track record, she remains a dangerous fighter for anyone in the strawweight division.
Conclusion
Virna Jandiroba’s MMA journey is a testament to her dedication, technical skill, and resilience. From her early days in regional promotions to capturing championship gold in Invicta FC and competing among the best in the UFC, she has carved out a name for herself as one of the premier grapplers in women’s MMA. As she continues her career, fight fans can expect more exciting performances from Jandiroba as she aims to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
