LAS VEGAS — Just like Ronda Rousey, Luana Pinheiro wants to be a positive influence on upcoming talent.
Pinheiro (8-1) secured a UFC contract when she knocked out Stephanie Frausto in the first round at Dana White’s Contender Series 35 at the UFC Apex.
Pinheiro, who looked up to Rousey growing up, shares similarities with the former bantamweight queen as both women come from a judo background. But now that she’s part of the UFC roster, Pinheiro hopes to emulate Rousey’s impact on the sport.
“I wanna show how my judo can be used in MMA, and I want to conquer what she conquered in MMA,” Pinheiro told reporters, including MMA Junkie, at the post-fight press conference. “I also want to be an example and a motivation for new girls like me who are starting in MMA because if I’m here today, it’s because I saw Ronda Rousey fight and give me motivation for being in this way.”
Currently riding a six-fight winning streak, all via finish, Pinheiro possesses an aggressive style that could see her make an instant impact on her arrival in the UFC. But the Brazilian prospect wants to make sure she’s at her very best if she gets the opportunity to one day fight for the title.
“I’m just getting into the UFC right now, I don’t want to jump the steps,” Pinheiro said. “I want to go step by step, and I can see that each day I’m a more complete fighter and that’s what I want. When I get the shot, I want to be a real complete fighter, well-rounded.”
Inspired by Ronda Rousey, DWCS 35 winner Luana Pinheiro wants to inspire MMA’s next generation
