For Fabiola Pidroni, fighting isn’t just about punches and submissions — it’s about breathing. As she prepares for her showdown with former EFC champion Chiara Penco at Cage Warriors 195 in Rome, Pidroni turns to simple but powerful rituals to steady herself during fight week.
“I use breathing and relaxation techniques a lot,” Pidroni said. “Everyone thinks being a fighter is too ‘cool,’ but we’re under 24/7 stress. I try to live day by day, hour by hour, without letting the pressure get to me.”
A Historic Moment for Italian Women’s MMA
The Cage Warriors 195 matchup is already being billed as one of the most important in Italian MMA history. With two Italian strawweights co-headlining in Rome, the fight marks a symbolic moment for the growth of women’s MMA in the country.
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“It’s a fantastic opportunity,” Pidroni said. “I hope the fight will be followed by as many people as possible and that women’s MMA can grow in Italy thanks to this match.”
Still, she refuses to let the national spotlight shake her approach. “Personally, it doesn’t change anything for me. A match is a match, and I don’t care where my opponent comes from.”
Balance in Training
When asked about preparation, Pidroni doesn’t point to one weapon — she sharpens them all.
“In my camps, I generally work on every aspect, my strengths and weaknesses, so I can improve on everything,” she explained.
Her recent performances reflect that balance. Pidroni is riding a two-fight win streak, including a knockout victory that showcased her striking power. The ability to mix KO power with a well-rounded game has made her a fighter to watch on the European scene.
Respecting the Threats, Owning Her Path
Pidroni acknowledges Penco’s experience and striking ability, but remains unshaken.
“She considers herself a very strong striker, so we’ll be paying attention to that,” she said.
Penco, nicknamed “Beasty Barbie,” is a former EFC strawweight champion who has fought some of the toughest names on the European circuit. Her grappling pedigree and veteran savvy make her a dangerous opponent, but Pidroni believes her composure and mental preparation will be the deciding factors.
For her, the key is mindset — refining strengths, acknowledging weaknesses, and breathing through the noise.
Italian MMA at a Crossroads
Cage Warriors 195 represents more than a single fight. As one of Europe’s most established promotions, Cage Warriors has long been a launchpad to the UFC. Fighters like Conor McGregor, Michael Bisping, and Paddy Pimblett all passed through the Cage Warriors cage before reaching global stardom.
For Italy, hosting a women’s main event of this magnitude is a statement that the sport is ready to take the next step. With Rome as the backdrop, Pidroni vs. Penco symbolises both tradition and transition — a veteran against a rising contender, both carrying the flag of Italian MMA.
Career Momentum
With back-to-back wins behind her, Pidroni sees Cage Warriors 195 as a critical step forward in her career.
“I’m very proud to be able to fight in a Cage Warriors event,” she said. “It will give me a lot of visibility, and I can’t wait.”
Victory in Rome could position her for even bigger opportunities within Cage Warriors, and potentially open the door to UFC consideration. For fans, it’s a chance to see one of Italy’s most promising strawweights tested against a proven champion.
And for those still undecided about tuning in to Cage Warriors 195, Pidroni has one final message:
“Please watch me on October 4th on UFC Fight Pass!!”
Quick Facts: Fabiola Pidroni
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Record: Riding a 2-fight win streak, including one knockout victory
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Opponent: Former EFC strawweight champion Chiara Penco
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Style: Balanced approach across striking, grappling, and cardio
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Fight Rituals: Breathing and relaxation techniques to manage stress
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Event: Cage Warriors 195, October 4 in Rome, streaming on UFC Fight Pass
Reporting Note: This interview with Fabiola Pidroni was conducted via written correspondence. Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity.
