Parrumpinha reveals Bia Mesquita's next steps in her career after her big debut at UFC Rio

Bia Mesquita backstage at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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A record holder for world titles in Jiu-Jitsu and the protagonist of a great UFC debut, Bia Mesquita is generating high expectations among her fans regarding her future in the bantamweight division (up to 61,2kg). At 34 years old, the athlete achieved her sixth consecutive victory and showed that she can pose problems for fighters in the roster dominated by Kayla Harrison.

Marcos Parrumpinha, responsible for training and organizing the Brazilian prospect's career, opened up about his future plans for his protégé. Contrary to popular belief, the renowned coach doesn't want to immediately catapult the fighter into the top 15, though he also understands there's not much time to gain experience before the biggest fights.

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"Bia's not a young girl anymore, so we can't be too patient, but we also can't rush things. We have to have a clear understanding of the next step, especially since the contract is still low, even though she's earned performance bonuses. There's no reason for you to face highly ranked athletes if you're not earning much," Parrumpinha declared on MMA Hoje.

Bia Mesquita with her coaches at UFC Rio. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @macarraodossantos

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Finally, the veteran indicated that he wants to test Bia Mesquita against a higher-caliber opponent next.

"Of course, I'm not going to let Bia fight five more fights and not aim for something better, because she doesn't have that kind of time. Four, five fights, that's a year and a half, two. But her next step won't be against someone ranked; I want her to have a tougher fight, perhaps an opponent who will demand more, so we can see how she feels under pressure (...) every step has to be well planned," he concluded.

Winner of the Performance of the Night bonus at UFC Rio, Bia finished Irina Alekseeva in the second round, applying a rear-naked choke and forcing her opponent to tap out. According to Parrumpinha, the plan was for the athlete to return to the octagon later this year, but officials stated that the events are already fully booked.

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