In a stunning display of grappling prowess, Brazilian rising star Jaqueline Amorim made waves at UFC on ESPN 66 held at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 26, 2025. Amorim faced off against fellow countrywoman Polyana Viana in a highly anticipated strawweight clash that showcased her elite skills and determination.
The bout began with both fighters exhibiting caution, exchanging strikes as they gauged each other's capabilities. However, it soon became apparent that Amorim was on the hunt for a takedown. Utilizing her exceptional grappling background, she successfully brought Viana to the mat midway through the second round, setting the stage for her decisive finish.
Once the fight hit the ground, Amorim wasted no time. She swiftly transitioned to Viana's back, expertly securing her hooks before locking in a textbook rear-naked choke. Viana had no choice but to tap out at 1:49 of Round 2, marking the end of the contest and Amorim's fourth consecutive finish in the UFC.
This victory not only improves Amorim's record to 10 wins and 1 loss in mixed martial arts (MMA), with a 4-1 record in the UFC, but also solidifies her reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in the strawweight division. Amorim's impressive performance against a seasoned opponent like Viana, who now faces her third consecutive defeat, has undoubtedly positioned her as a serious contender in the division.
In her post-fight interview, Amorim expressed gratitude towards her team and fans, emphasizing her readiness for greater challenges ahead. "This is just the beginning," she stated confidently. "I’m here to show that Brazilian jiu-jitsu is alive and well in the UFC." Her message resonated with the audience, highlighting her ambition to climb the ranks and face top-tier opponents.
Amorim's finishing ability has been a key factor in her rise within the UFC. Her previous victories over Montserrat Conejo Ruiz, Cory McKenna, and Vanessa Demopoulos were all secured through submissions, showcasing her relentless pursuit of finishes. Each fight has further established her as a formidable force in the octagon, and many fans and analysts are eager to see who she will face next.
Meanwhile, Viana's career trajectory has taken a downturn, as she has now been finished in her last three fights, all in the second round. Her last victory came back in November 2022, when she defeated Jinh Yu Frey by first-round TKO. The latest loss adds to the pressure on Viana to regroup and reassess her strategies going forward.
As the event unfolded, it wasn't just the Amorim vs. Viana fight that captured attention. The card featured several exciting matchups, including Timmy Cuamba's TKO victory over Roberto Romero and Joselyne Edwards stopping Chelsea Chandler in the first round. Cuamba's performance, marked by a flying knee knockout, showcased the thrilling unpredictability of MMA.
Amorim's victory at UFC on ESPN 66 is expected to elevate her status within the strawweight division, and fans are already buzzing about potential matchups against ranked opponents. With her sights set on a top 15 opponent, she is clearly ready to take on the best the division has to offer.
As UFC fans look ahead, the implications of this fight extend beyond just rankings. Amorim's triumph serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of women's MMA, where grappling skills can turn the tide in an instant. The performance has not only solidified her place among the elite but also reignited interest in Brazilian jiu-jitsu's role in the sport.
In conclusion, Jaqueline Amorim's impressive submission victory over Polyana Viana at UFC on ESPN 66 is a significant milestone in her career. With a growing fan base and a clear ambition to challenge for the title, Amorim is undoubtedly a fighter to watch in the months to come. As she continues to climb the ranks, the MMA world eagerly anticipates her next move and the exciting matchups that lie ahead.
