- George Chung
- Oct 4, 2024
- 4 min read
In the fast-paced world of mixed martial arts, many fighters are focused on skyrocketing their way to UFC championship belt. However, No. 14-ranked UFC strawweight Iasmin Lucindo has chosen a different approach at UFC 307. Despite being one of the youngest female fighters on the UFC roster, Lucindo carries a unique blend of maturity and wisdom that sets her apart. At just 22 years old, she’s not rushing to the top but steadily building her skillset and reputation.
As Lucindo gears up for her biggest fight to date against No. 6 Marina Rodriguez at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, her mindset is clear: "I don't want instant gratification. I want to gain experience first, and then I'll compete for the championship belt," she shared in an interview with UFC Brazil. This grounded approach contrasts sharply with the fast-lane mentality often associated with younger fighters.
Learning to Slow Down in a Fast-Paced World
Lucindo is acutely aware of how easy it can be to rush through life, especially in a generation that seeks instant results. “I’ve wasted so much time rushing through life, even though I’m young,” she said, reflecting on her journey. Her newfound perspective has allowed her to appreciate the grind and challenges that come with fighting at the highest level. By focusing on the long-term, Lucindo is taking the time to build experience, and the results are starting to show.
Her rise in the UFC strawweight division has been meteoric but measured. Fresh off a victory against UFC veteran Karolina Kowalkiewicz at UFC 301, Lucindo has shown that she’s more than capable of handling the pressure. "Before the fight against Karolina, I thought, 'Oh boy, I'm about to face a prominent fighter who has competed for the championship belt.’ But I trusted my team and our game plan, and we completely blocked Karolina's strategies." That victory, which felt like a steep hill to climb, only added to Lucindo’s confidence as she now faces the dangerous Marina Rodriguez.
A Striking Showdown Awaits at UFC 307
Lucindo’s path to the top has seen her evolve with every fight. Following a submission win over Polyana Viana and a decision victory over Brogan Walker, she’s riding a wave of momentum. However, standing across from her in the Octagon this Saturday will be one of the division's most dangerous fighters: Marina Rodriguez. A veteran of the sport, Rodriguez has victories over elite fighters like Mackenzie Dern, Amanda Ribas, Yan Xiaonan, and Michelle Waterson-Gomez, proving her credentials as a top contender.
Lucindo is fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead, and she embraces it. “I've watched many of Marina’s fights. She's an elite striker, one of the best in the UFC. I feel honored to share the Octagon with her,” Lucindo admitted. Both fighters are known for their striking prowess, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying clash in the Octagon.
With both fighters hailing from Brazil, Lucindo is eager to put on a show. "We’re both strikers," she says with a smile. "When two strikers meet, we feel over the moon because we know we’ll have three intense rounds. I’m sure we’ll put on a great show."
The Road to UFC Glory: Lucindo’s Journey of Patience
Despite the opportunity to leap into the Top Five of the strawweight division with a win over Rodriguez, Lucindo remains focused on the present. “Honestly, I'm in no rush at all,” she explains when asked about a potential title shot. “People often ask me, 'Do you want to fight for the championship belt?' But I’m not in a hurry for that. God places the opportunities in my path, and I accept them.”
For Lucindo, the goal is not just about the UFC strawweight belt, but about growing as a fighter with every challenge she faces. “Focusing too much on the future causes great anxiety, especially for me,” she adds. “Right now, I’m focusing on Marina.”
Her calm, collected approach doesn’t mean she lacks ambition. Lucindo knows that with her skill set, experience will come fast, and so will the opportunities. A win over Marina Rodriguez would not only move her closer to a title shot but would solidify her status as one of the brightest young stars in the UFC.
The Showdown: What’s at Stake for Lucindo?
As the youngest fighter in the UFC strawweight division, Iasmin Lucindo has already shown she’s a force to be reckoned with. This Saturday at UFC 307, she steps into the Octagon to face Marina Rodriguez, a top contender known for her elite striking skills. For Lucindo, this fight isn’t just a battle for rankings—it’s an opportunity to showcase her growth, her patience, and her potential to become a UFC champion in the future.
While she remains focused on the moment, Lucindo’s path is clear. A victory on Saturday will not only vault her into the Top Five but also serve as a statement to the entire UFC roster that the young Brazilian phenom is here to stay. Don't miss UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr., live from Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 5, 2024. The prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT.
In a sport that often demands quick results, Lucindo is teaching the world the power of patience. And with her biggest fight to date just days away, she’s ready to continue her steady march toward the belt.
