Bia Mesquita’s Bantamweight Triumph: A Mixed Victory
Legendary jiu-jitsu champion Bia Mesquita added another win to her professional MMA record during UFC 313 fight week in Las Vegas, but the path to this victory was far from straightforward. Mesquita secured her fourth pro MMA win at LFA 203, an event held at the Palms Casino Resort, but the win came via disqualification after her opponent, Hope Chase, landed an illegal upkick in the second round. The sequence of events left Mesquita feeling both triumphant and frustrated, as she had been on the verge of a submission that would have solidified her dominance in a more traditional manner.
A Hard-Earned Win
In the immediate aftermath of the victory, Mesquita expressed her mixed emotions during a media scrum with MMA Fighting’s José Youngs. She acknowledged her disappointment at not securing a tap, which is her preferred method of finishing a fight. “I always look for the tap, but unfortunately I feel like that was her way to get out of there without tapping, but kind of tapping,” Mesquita said. Despite the disqualification, she recognized the significance of the win. “I won the first round really good. Second round I was ready to go for the submission again and unfortunately that happened. The rules meeting was extremely clear about that and she knows exactly what she was doing. It’s another victory, you know? Of course主要用于改进这段内容的英文表达。
A Frustrated Yet Determined Champion
Mesquita has now won all four of her professional MMA bouts since transitioning to the sport in 2024. Her first three victories came via submission, all by way of a rear-naked choke, showcasing her strong jiu-jitsu background. She felt she was close to securing another submission in the second round before the illegal strike. Despite the setback, her determination remains undiminished. “I feel like that was a really good opportunity,” Mesquita reflected. “And that’s why I feel a little bit frustrated because I want the submission because I know all the eyes were on me, but I don’t think this changes anything.”
Eyes on the Prize
Mesquita’s primary goal remains signing a deal with the UFC, and she believes her performance in Las Vegas has put her in a strong position to achieve that. “They saw how ready I was and how I fight forward to finish the fight. I think that didn’t change, but I don’t know. If they call me, I’m ready. If not, I’m ready for the belt. I’m looking to fight for the bantamweight title. Nothing changed. I proved that I’m ready for what is next,” she stated. Her readiness and forward-thinking approach demonstrate her unwavering commitment to her MMA career.
A Clear Path Forward
For Mesquita, the disqualification victory does not alter her trajectory. She remains focused on the next step, whether that is a UFC contract or a shot at the LFA bantamweight title. Her confidence and resilience are evident, and she is prepared to face whatever challenges come her way. “I proved that I’m ready for what is next,” she reiterated, emphasizing her belief in her own abilities and her readiness to take on the next level of competition.
A Bright Future in MMA
Bia Mesquita’s journey from jiu-jitsu champion to rising MMA star is nothing short of inspiring. Despite the unexpected turn of events at LFA 203, her performance and attitude underscore her potential in the sport. Her next move, whether it is a call from the UFC or a title shot, will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike. Mesquita’s determination to succeed and her ability to adapt to the unpredictable nature of MMA make her a formidable force in the bantamweight division.
