Loopy Godinez praises movement in UFC strawweight division

Loopy Godinez has noticed some changes in the UFC strawweight division. Since Zhang Weili left the weight class to move up to flyweight, the Mexican fighter believes the division has become more active, with new names emerging in the rankings. As more opportunities open up in the weight class, Godinez will look to take advantage of that when she faces Ketlen Souza at UFC Vegas 122 on Saturday.

Loopy Godinez Praises Strawweight Division's New Names

A former UFC strawweight champion, Weili vacated the title in October 2025 to move up to flyweight after defending the belt three consecutive times. Following her departure from the division, Mackenzie Dern captured the vacant title with a unanimous decision victory over Virna Jandiroba that same month. Since then, Godinez has noticed several new names making their way into the rankings.

"I think there's been some movement in there and I really like it," Godinez told MMA Junkie Radio. "Since Weili left, I feel like there's been a lot of movement (with) Mackenzie being the champ now. There are so many new up-and-comers coming into the rankings. That's also really exciting. We can see so many different names that have changed throughout the years. It's exciting. I'm very excited."

Loopy Godinez Hopes to Capitalize on Opportunity

Currently sitting at No. 11 in the strawweight division, Godinez is looking to bounce back after suffering a submission defeat to Tatiana Suarez in her last appearance in April. The Mexican fighter believes a victory over Souza could help her position herself for bigger opportunities in the division. Godinez has also pointed out that her willingness to accept fights has helped her remain active throughout her UFC career.

"Definitely. I think a win over here is going to be really good for me and the whole thing. I'm really excited," Godinez said. "I do feel the UFC really likes me. They know I'm always ready. I'm always game to fight any opponent. I've never said no to a fight. I've never pulled out. Thankfully, my body has been really good to me. So yeah, that's probably why."

While Godinez is coming off a loss, Souza enters the fight with plenty of momentum after winning her last two appearances, including a first-round knockout over Ariane Carnelossi in June. The strawweights are scheduled to meet at UFC Vegas 122 on Saturday in Las Vegas. The event will be headlined by a middleweight bout between Brendan Allen and Christian Leroy Duncan.