Bia Mesquita’s Perfect UFC Debut in Rio

Bia Mesquita’s long-awaited UFC debut in Rio de Janeiro was nothing short of spectacular. Stepping into the Octagon for the first time at UFC Rio, the 10-time BJJ world champion proved that her grappling mastery translates seamlessly into mixed martial arts.

Facing Irina Alekseeva, Mesquita showcased impressive composure and tactical control from the opening bell. Using sharp timing to close the distance, execute a smooth takedown, and dominate on the ground. In the second round, she transitioned effortlessly to Alekseeva’s back and sealed the victory with a textbook rear-naked choke, earning a submission win in front of her home crowd.

The performance not only marked a dream debut for the Rio native but also signaled her arrival as a serious contender in the UFC’s bantamweight division.

Bia Mesquita’s journey from BJJ mat legend to UFC winner in her home city has been long-anticipated and her debut suggests she belongs. The depth of her grappling resume was never in question, what many wondered was whether she could translate it into MMA under the brightest lights. The answer: Yes, she not only translated it, she imposed it.

For First Round Management, her success is validation of years of careful development, the sacrifices, and the strategy. For fans, it’s a signal that a new competitor is rising, one whose greatest strengths lie in what she’s always done best, but now bolstered by MMA experience, training, and hunger.