The “next fight” she speaks of is Saturday’s showdown with Amanda Ribas at UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs de Ridder. When you get to this stage of the game, the challenges don’t get easier, and as a veteran of two women’s divisions, Ribas is frequently a tall order for her opponents. Ricci is well aware, and ready, nonetheless.
VIEW: Ricci’s Athlete Page
“I really respect her. Always when she fights, I will always cheer for her. She’s an awesome person and we’ve always been cool. She’s been there for a long time and she’s Brazilian.”
Many fight fans notice an undeniable extra halo of excitement when two Brazilians face off in the Octagon. Some fighters bristle or dismiss it when you bring it up, but not Ricci. She agrees.
“I think we always like to put in a good show as Brazilians; we don’t give up, we have good heart, and that’s very entertaining in a fight. We just want to give a good show.”