Tabatha Ricci does not aim to call out specific opponents, but sees an attractive date on the UFC calendar.
Ricci (10-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC) is on the rise in the strawweight division with five wins in six matches, including a split decision victory over challenger Tecia Pennington at UFC on ESPN 56 in May.
The 29-year-old said she is taking a slow and steady approach to her career and would ideally like to return to the Octagon as part of UFC Fight Night card in Paris on September 28th.
“I want to fight in September – I would love to fight at UFC Paris,” Ricci told MMA Junkie Radio during a recent interview at UFC X. “I’m not in a rush with my career. I’m improving with each fight. I’m going to fight again this year, so it doesn’t matter when.”
Ricci, No. 13 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie strawweight rankings, said she doesn’t see any particular matchup that makes sense for her on the card in France. Ideally, she would fight an opponent with a number above her, but ultimately, she would accept any offer.
“I don’t have anyone in mind,” Ricci said. “I’m ready for whoever it is. I do my job in training.”