Virna Jandiroba is focusing on her upcoming main event clash against Tatiana Suarez at UFC Vegas 124, but the strawweight contender is already looking toward future possibilities. If Jandiroba secures a victory this weekend, she believes a third fight against rival Mackenzie Dern could be on the horizon. The two fighters have previously split their meetings, leaving a potential rubber match as an appealing narrative for the division, reported MMA Junkie.
Jandiroba acknowledged that while her immediate priority remains the undefeated Suarez, the history between her and Dern makes a trilogy bout a logical progression for her career. Reflecting on their past performances and the competitive nature of their previous encounters, Jandiroba indicated that the promotion has options for her next steps. She noted that a win on Saturday would significantly bolster her standing in the rankings and open doors for high-profile matchups, according to the reporting from MMA Junkie.
The Brazilian fighter has been on an impressive run, and a win over a top-tier opponent like Suarez would likely solidify her position as a primary contender for the strawweight title. However, the prospect of settling the score with Dern adds an extra layer of motivation. Jandiroba suggested that she is open to whatever path leads her toward the championship, but she remains aware of the fan interest surrounding a final showdown against her longtime rival, as noted by the outlets.
The matchup against Suarez is widely viewed as a critical test for both athletes. Suarez has long been considered a future champion, and Jandiroba represents a significant hurdle in her path to the top. As the fight approaches, the tactical implications of the bout are clear, with both women looking to prove their dominance in a crowded division. Should Jandiroba succeed, her post-fight comments will likely reignite discussions about her future, including the potential for that third meeting with Dern, according to the coverage provided by MMA Junkie.