Ketlen Vieira says she is not afraid of Cris Cyborg ahead of PFL Tampa

Ketlen Vieira has one of the biggest challenges of her career ahead of her. On Saturday, the former UFC bantamweight contender will face Cris Cyborg at PFL Tampa for the women's featherweight title. Just days before the matchup, the Brazilian has made it clear she has immense respect for her opponent, but also believes she has an advantage going into the fight because she is not afraid of the champion.

Ketlen Vieira Believes She has one Advantage Over Cris Cyborg

About to face one of the most accomplished MMA fighters in the history of the sport, Vieira has a lot of respect for Cyborg. However, despite her admiration for the champion, the Brazilian does not believe that will prevent her from fighting aggressively once they step into the cage. Speaking to MMA Junkie Radio, Vieira pointed to her mindset as a potential advantage against a fighter who has intimidated many opponents throughout her career.

"I feel like my biggest advantage over Cris is, simply put, I'm not afraid of her," Vieira began. "I feel like everyone else that goes in there to fight Cris, walks in there as if they're about to face a giant. I respect her a lot, but once that cage door closes she is just another opponent of mine. I've feared no opponents throughout my career, and this is no different. As an athlete, I don't fear anyone."

The Brazilian has made it clear that her admiration for Cyborg will remain outside the cage once the fight begins.

"That respect and admiration will stay on the outside of the cage once that door gets locked on August 22nd."

Ketlen Vieira Dreams of Becoming World Champion

Although Vieira has spent much of her career competing at the highest level of women's MMA, the Brazilian has never fought for a major title. Now, at PFL Tampa, Vieira has the opportunity to finally capture a world championship by defeating one of the most accomplished fighters in the history of the sport. According to the Brazilian, she has dreamed of this moment since she first started competing.

"Simply put, this would be the happiest day of my life," Vieira said. "From the moment I got into the sport as a little girl, I've dreamt of being a world champion. And to become a world champion, doing so over someone that has held so many belts and has carried herself in such an amazing way in this sport, it would mean the world to me."

On Aug. 22, Vieira will enter the fight with the respect of a challenger facing one of the sport's most decorated champions, but without the fear she believes could hold other opponents back. With a world championship at stake, the Brazilian now has the opportunity to turn a lifelong dream into reality.