Nova Uniao’s Poliana Botelho (7-2 MMA, 2-1 UFC)
returns to action at UFC 236 on Saturday night, where the Brazilian competitor moves up to flyweight and meets Lauren Mueller (5-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC)
MMA Junkie caught up with Botelho as she looks to shake off a loss and improve to 3-1 in the UFC.
You are 2-1 in the UFC. Can you recap your UFC career so far?
We have to take things slowly – one step at a time. That’s what we’ve done in the UFC. Against Pearl Gonzalez, the fight was more grappling-heavy. Against Syuri Kondo, she chose to stand up, which allowed me to get the fastest knockout in the strawweight class – 33 seconds.
As far as my last fight, a loss, we shouldn’t take credit away from my opponent (Cynthia Calvillo). But one of the biggest factors was making the weight. On my first bout, I made the weight fine. The second time, it was so-so. The third time, it was horrible. I came in at the right weight, but during my training sessions, I could barely do anything. My body was too weak during my training camp. I think that affected my last bout. My team and I decided that, for my health, we wouldn’t fight at 115 pounds anymore.
What can you say about your next opponent, Lauren Mueller?
As soon as we book a fight, I get together with my team and study my opponent’s game. We base my training sessions on what my opponent may bring. Lauren seems to be very strong. She is coming off a loss. Her strongest attribute seems to be her striking. I think she’ll want to stand up against me. I’m not sure. Some opponents, try to avoid me on the feet, and decide to grapple instead. Our strategy is already put together, in regards to how things may play out.
How’s your training camp going?
I train at Nova Uniao (União) under coach Andre (André) Pederneiras. I’ve been working with Ketlen Vieira, who’s also in the UFC. Now that I’m moving up in weight, I’m feeling much stronger during this training camp. I’m feeling very ready to fight at flyweight.
Do you have other opponents in mind for the future?
Right now, I’m only focusing on Lauren. I can’t think past her. We’ll figure out who’s next after the fight.
You were linked to Paige VanZant at first. Would you like to revisit that?
I was originally booked against Paige VanZant, but she hurt her arm. Paige was replaced by Lauren. But like I said, first I’ll fight, then I’ll worry about other things. I plan to have the best fight of my life.
Final thoughts?
I’d like to thank my fans. You will see a new Poliana in her right weight class. I’ll be stronger. Going forward, I’ll be focusing more on fighting and less on dieting.
For more on UFC 236, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.
