Tabatha Ricci impresses in evolution, dispatches veteran and reaches the top 10 of the strawweights

Tabatha Ricci in victory over Angela Hill. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Determined to get closer to the strawweight belt (up to 52,1kg.) in the UFC, Tabatha Ricci demonstrated great progress in a crucial fight scheduled for ufc vegas 96. Successfully applied strategy to face Angela Hill, the Brazilian triumphed in the judges' unanimous decision after nullifying the North American's talent in the stand-up department.

Until then, ranked 11th in the category ranking, Ricci now expects to occupy ninth place in the division in an update that will take place this Tuesday (27). Fueled by two consecutive victories, the Brazilian took another step towards the belt and claimed the fifth victim on her journey through Ultimate.

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Moreover, Angela Hill wasted an opportunity to continue with a positive streak in the organization. Coming off two consecutive victories, the American said goodbye to her crucial position in the division and will now need to recalculate her route at the age of 39.

Tabatha Ricci dominates Angela Hill and reaches the top 10 of the straws

Tabatha started the fight without giving her opponent a chance to take advantage in the stand-up fight and quickly put Hill on her back against the fence. Determined to fight for victory, Angela quickly freed herself and began exchanging blows with the Brazilian, while avoiding being dominated against the fence. Risky in strategy, 'Baby Shark' did not give comfort to the veteran and bet on fighting at all times. At the end of the first round, the Brazilian managed to land good punches on the North American's face.

At the beginning of the second half, Tabatha put Hill down and was in danger after the North American attempted a triangle. Without belittling her rival's talent, the Brazilian chose to stand up and once again use the grid as her ally to control the actions. Without getting tired, Ricci continued walking forward and exchanging blows at close range with his rival. Despite her offensive stance, the Brazilian faced an opponent who did not interrupt her return of blows and sought to attack at all times.

In the third round of the fight, Angela connected with a brutal rotating elbow and began hunting for a knockout against the Brazilian, who, despite the fast pace for 10 minutes, remained active in the confrontation. Seeking to dominate his rival, Ricci once again resorted to using the fence to minimize the North American's momentum, but he could not sustain the pressure for long.