‘One Fight at a Time’ for Ketlen Vieira

A shot at the Ultimate Fighting Championship women’s bantamweight title has thus far eluded Ketlen Vieira—a frustrating reality she would like to change sooner rather than later.

The 33-year-old Brazilian will look to resume her climb toward the top of the 135-pound weight class when she faces Macy Chiasson as part of the UFC on ESPN 68 undercard this Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Vieira has compiled an 8-4 record across her 12 assignments in the UFC, her run in the promotion highlighted by back-to-back victories over former champions Miesha Tate and Holly Holm some three years ago. However, she finds herself on the rebound following a unanimous decision defeat to two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison at UFC 307 in October.

“I believe that it’s one fight at a time,” Vieira said. “Through my own experience, I no longer consider the rankings. I was number two on several occasions. I defeated two former champions in a row. I don’t think anyone else has done that, but I didn’t get to fight for the belt. I’ll just keep doing my work, and when the time is right, God will make it happen. Many people want the opportunity. I wish to be ready when the opportunity arrives.”

Chiasson serves as her latest obstacle. “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 28 winner has rattled off five victories in seven outings, losing only to Raquel Pennington and Irene Aldana. A Fortis MMA rep, Chiasson last suited up on June 29, when she stopped Mayra Bueno Silva on a second-round technical knockout at UFC 303. Vieira views her as a legitimate threat.

“The next fight is very important to me,” she said. “I’m taking it one step at a time. That’s my mindset. Everything happens at the right moment. I’ll show up ready to fight. I’ll do whatever is necessary to bring this win home. Every day, I’m feeling even more ready. I expect to have my arm raised in the end.”

Vieira operates out of the star-studded Nova Uniao camp in Rio de Janeiro, where legendary trainer Andre Pederneiras oversees her development. Her work there has helped her maintain a level of consistency few can match. Vieira has never suffered consecutive losses in her 18-fight career.

“Everyone is very focused on helping me evolve in all areas,” she said. “I’m working with my jiu-jitsu, wrestling and striking coaches. We all have the same goal of helping me be as ready as possible for this fight. Our work is done in the best possible way.”

A win over Chiasson would put Vieira on a shortlist of potential contenders for the women’s bantamweight crown, with Julianna Pena set to defend the title against the aforementioned Harrison in the UFC 316 co-main event on June 7.

“My plans are to first win this fight in front of me,” Vieira said. “I want to remain active. Every day, I work hard to bring something new whenever I step into the Octagon so I can have even better performances.”