T. Santos is a promising Brazilian in the UFC flyweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
In a great phase in Ultimate, Taila Santos You are just hours away from your next challenge. Brazilian promise in flyweight (up to 56,7kg), the athlete faces the experienced Roxanne Modafferi in a duel that could bring her closer to a title fight. Before the fight, the Santa Catarina native spoke exclusively to SUPER LUTAS about this Saturday's challenge (25), for UFC 266.
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Riding on two consecutive victories, Santos seems to have adapted her game to the elite level of Ultimate. The path, however, has not been easy. It was at the company that Tupiniquim suffered its first stumble as a professional in MM
Feelings after the first defeat
Representing the under-56,7kg category, Santos arrived at the UFC with an enviable resume. The athlete had never tasted defeat in 15 commitments as a professional in the sport. In her debut, however, Taila ended up being surpassed by Mara Romero Borella in the judges' split decision. After the first stumble, the Santa Catarina native revealed her feelings about the first setback.
“At the time, I was very sad, even though I had 'stuck' (in the confrontation). I was coming off a top winning streak and lost right on my debut at the biggest event, where everyone wants to be. Of course it gives that thump, but then it goes away. Keep your head in place, get back to focus and everything is back on track”, said the fighter.
Adaptation to Ultimate
In February of this season, Taila completed two years as a UFC professional. In the category ranking led by Valentina Shevchenko, the Brazilian spoke about the process of adapting to the company.
“The mind has changed a lot. After I lost, we have to know that we need to stay focused on what we want, not let anything get us down. When I got into that fight (against Borella), I saw the crowd and I had no experience. Now, none of this bothers me. I am well prepared and have done my homework,” she said.
Modafferi Review
To continue her journey towards the top of the flyweight division, Taila will need to overcome an opponent famous for using a pragmatic but highly dangerous strategy. Santos then spoke about the challenge of defeating the veteran, who brings with her the experience of more than 40 MMA appearances.
“The gong rang and she (Roxanne) came to grab it. She has this 'boring game', but I also like the ground fighting, grappling. In the fight against Molly (McAnn), I took it to the cage, I stayed on the ground. Also like. If you're favoring me, I accept it. I believe she (Modafferi) will play her game, which is legal”, she joked.
Surprise in the octagon
If he overcomes Modafferi and scores his third consecutive victory in Ultimate, Santos promised a surprise. Without revealing her name, the Brazilian said that she has a challenge that will be addressed in the interview after a possible triumph.
“I have some names here. I can't reveal it now (laughs), but I do. On Saturday, people will know,” said Taila.
Optimal outcome
Known for her knockout power, Santos knows she can end the fight before 15 minutes. The Brazilian, however, doesn't just rely on the strength of her fists. According to the Santa Catarina native, the important thing will be the show for the fans.
“I close my eyes here and just visualize a knockout, a top finish. Or even a 'struggle'. One of these three, with the bonus, will be a great show”, she concluded.
Athletes' history
At 28, Taila Santos is heading towards his 19th fight as a professional in MMA. Today, the Santa Catarina native has 17 triumphs and only one setback.
Veteran in the sport, Roxanne Modafferi will make her 44th clash in the sport. The 38-year-old fighter has 25 wins and 18 stumbles in her career.
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