Lucia Szabova signs with UFC, set to face Tainara Lisboa in debut
The undefeated two-division OKTAGON champion is expected to make her UFC debut against the Brazilian bantamweight in October.
Lucia Szabova has signed with the UFC and already has an opponent lined up for her promotional debut. The undefeated Slovakian, who was a two-division champion under the OKTAGON banner, is reportedly set to face Tainara Lisboa in a bantamweight bout on Oct. 31. The bout was first reported by Ag Fight, although the UFC has yet to make an official announcement.
Lucia Szabova Arrives Undefeated
Szabova enters the UFC with an undefeated 10-0 record and considerable experience despite being only 28 years old. The Slovakian built her career under the OKTAGON banner, where she became a champion at both flyweight and bantamweight. In her most recent appearance on Aug. 1, Szabova successfully defended her bantamweight title against former UFC fighter Lucie Pudilova.
The upcoming move to the UFC represents the biggest step of Szabova's career so far. After establishing herself as one of the top fighters in European MMA, the Slovakian will now have the opportunity to test her skills against the best bantamweights in the world.
Tainara Lisboa Gets Another UFC Opportunity
Lisboa, meanwhile, will look to get back to winning ways after losing her last two appearances. The Brazilian owns a 7-4 professional record and has already fought four times inside the Octagon, compiling a 2-2 mark in the promotion. Before transitioning to MMA, Lisboa was a two-time Muay Thai world champion in Thailand.
The matchup will feature an intriguing clash between two fighters with strong Muay Thai backgrounds, while also giving Szabova an immediate test against an opponent who already knows what it takes to compete in the UFC. For Lisboa, a victory over an undefeated two-division champion could provide a major boost as she looks to turn her recent fortunes around.
