Inspired by Angela Hill, Ashley Yoder hopes UFC 252 starts busy run

Ashley Yoder wants more fights.

The UFC strawweight is looking to build on her consistency level inside the octagon, and she believes that starts with her UFC 252 bout against Livia Renata Souza on Aug. 15.

Yoder (7–5 MMA, 2-4 UFC) has only competed six times during her almost four-year run in the UFC. The 32-year-old last fought in October, where she lost to Randa Markos via split decision. Yoder feels no one is to blame for her lack of fights, and believes several elements have played a factor.

“I think the consistency over the years hasn’t really been on anyone’s part, as you know, being a part of the fight game they’re not going to put a bunch of females – and theres a lot of us – on every card,” Yoder told MMA Junkie Radio. “So this last layoff I did have an injury, (but) I already recovered from it. I needed a little bit of time to heal from that and make sure I’m good to go. So I’ve ben trying to push it, to get back into the octagon as quickly as possible, so I’ve been training, but yeah I’m ready to go.”

Yoder hopes to stay healthy so more bookings can follow after UFC 252. She takes inspiration in a former foe, who has been the most active fighter in the UFC over the past year-plus, regardless of gender.

“My hat goes off to Angela (Hill),” Yoder said. “She hasn’t had easy fights and they go back and forth and she has a lot of questionable losses. She’s able to come back from it, so its impressive and it’s definitely something I look up to and something I want to be able to do.”

Yoder is looking forward to the bout with the Brazilian and can’t wait to compete again. The 32-year-old thinks a higher activity level could do her well in her skillset and performance inside the cage.

“I think one of the biggest things to being a successful fighter is being able to be active and get used to that,” Yoder explained. “You have that stress on your chest and you’re already familiar with it, so it’s just another sparring session. I love being familiar with it and I love being active and fight as much as possible.”